What You Need to Know About Airport Security Clearances

Long lines at airports are a nightmare for everyone. But there are ways to ease that headache, making your flying experience more enjoyable — and, hopefully, cutting down on the possibility of missing your flight. Services like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR+ can make your time at the airport much more smooth by providing expedited airport security clearance. 

But if you’ve ever stood in line, shoes in hand, wondering, “How do you get PreCheck?” at TSA checkpoints, then you’re not alone. Whether you’re looking for a Global Entry application or wondering what the airport CLEAR line is all about, we’ve got you covered. Here are the costs, benefits and best choices for you, based on your travel plans — international, domestic or just to a select airport.

TSA PreCheck

Who’s It for? 

TSA PreCheck is best for those who do most of their air travel within the United States. 

How Much Does It Cost?

$85 for 5 years (less when you renew or apply through certain enrollment providers)

What Documents Do I Need? 

Valid U.S. government-issued photo identification and a document that meets citizenship requirements (see the list at the TSA website)

TSA PreCheck gives you access to an expedited line that will cut down your airport wait time and speed up the security process. You can keep your laptop and liquids in your bag, and your shoes and jacket can stay on. You’ll speed through in no time.

First you need to sign up or register online. Then you’ll need to complete the in-person, TSA PreCheck interview. (You can also complete the whole process in person.) Don’t forget the documents listed above, and your application should be vetted in a couple weeks. You’ll receive your known traveler number (KTN), which will let you speed through security at more than 200 airports across the country.

Global Entry

Who’s It for?

U.S. citizens and citizens of certain other countries who travel internationally.

How Much Does It Cost?

$120 for 5 years

What Documents Do I Need? 

Passport and one other form of ID, such as driver’s license or ID card.

Do you dread the long wait through customs after an international flight? Skip it with Global Entry. Instead of waiting with the masses, you’ll head straight for a kiosk to scan your passport and fingerprints. The machine will take your photo and verify your identity.

You can apply for Global Entry at one of the participating airports, but be prepared for a wait. It can take months to schedule your in-person interview, and you’ll have to go to one of the enrollment-approved airports. To start the process, create an account online, pay the nonrefundable $120 application fee and wait for conditional approval to schedule an in-person appointment.

Once approved, Global Entry will get through customs more quickly, plus you’ll get a complimentary TSA PreCheck along with it. Find out if your insurance covers you abroad.

CLEAR+

Who’s It for? 

Domestic travelers who frequent participating airports

What Does it Cost? 

$209 per year

What Documents Do I Need? 

U.S. driver’s license or state-issued ID, or certain other IDs (check the website for details). If you wish to apply for CLEAR+ with PreCheck, you’ll need to follow the rules for PreCheck IDs.

Your wait will get even shorter — at certain airports — with CLEAR+. Instead of waiting in the ID check line, you’ll head to a special lane to scan your boarding pass and fingerprint or iris, then head directly to security. The company says this will take you just 5 minutes. Once you’re through the ID checkpoint, skip ahead even more if you have TSA PreCheck. 

In fact, CLEAR+ offers a bundle, so you can apply for CLEAR+ and TSA PreCheck at the same time for one price.

However, CLEAR+ is only available at certain airports. Check to ensure your airport is a participating airport before you sign up. Fill out an application online, then finish your enrollment (identify verification, iris scanning and fingerprints) at a participating airport.

Other Programs

Do you frequent Mexico or Canada by vehicle? Get through the border faster with SENTRI. NEXUS offers similar benefits, limited to just Canada. Each gives you access to an expedited vehicle and pedestrian entrance into the U.S. and comes with TSA PreCheck. Each require proof of citizenship and any applicable documentation or visas necessary for entry into the U.S. Both programs are $120 for 5 years.

Travel Fast and Safe

When you’re traveling, you want to make sure you’re protected. Reach out to Farm Bureau today to talk about insurance options that can protect your house and family, whether at home or abroad.