Quick answer
Reviewed · 4 min read
They do different jobs. TSA PreCheck is a government program that gives you a faster, easier screening lane where shoes, belts, laptops and liquids stay put. CLEAR is a private, paid membership that verifies your identity biometrically so you skip the ID-check line; you still go through screening afterward. Get PreCheck first, and add CLEAR if you fly often from airports where it operates.
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CLEAR vs TSA PreCheck, side by side
- Who runs it
- CLEARCLEAR, a private companyTSA PreCheckTSA, part of the Department of Homeland Security
- What it does
- CLEARVerifies your identity biometrically, so you skip the ID lineTSA PreCheckGives you expedited security screening
- Screening
- CLEARYou still go through standard or PreCheck screeningTSA PreCheckShoes, belts and light jackets stay on; laptops and 3-1-1 liquids stay in your bag
- Where it works
- CLEARSelect U.S. airports, plus some stadiums and venuesTSA PreCheckParticipating U.S. airports and airlines
- Cost
- CLEARPaid annual membership; some credit cards reimburse itTSA PreCheckAbout $80–85 for five years, by provider (as of 2026; confirm on tsa.gov)
- Membership length
- CLEARAnnual, renewingTSA PreCheckFive years
- How to enroll
- CLEARSign up online, then verify at a CLEAR location or, where offered, in the appTSA PreCheckOnline application, then an in-person appointment for fingerprints
- Who can apply
- CLEARAdults with acceptable ID; family members can be addedTSA PreCheckU.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents
- Children
- CLEARFamily can be added to an account; check current terms for minorsTSA PreCheckChildren 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent
- Included with Global Entry
- CLEARNoTSA PreCheckYes
| Compare | CLEAR | TSA PreCheck |
|---|---|---|
| Who runs it | CLEAR, a private company | TSA, part of the Department of Homeland Security |
| What it does | Verifies your identity biometrically, so you skip the ID line | Gives you expedited security screening |
| Screening | You still go through standard or PreCheck screening | Shoes, belts and light jackets stay on; laptops and 3-1-1 liquids stay in your bag |
| Where it works | Select U.S. airports, plus some stadiums and venues | Participating U.S. airports and airlines |
| Cost | Paid annual membership; some credit cards reimburse it | About $80–85 for five years, by provider (as of 2026; confirm on tsa.gov) |
| Membership length | Annual, renewing | Five years |
| How to enroll | Sign up online, then verify at a CLEAR location or, where offered, in the app | Online application, then an in-person appointment for fingerprints |
| Who can apply | Adults with acceptable ID; family members can be added | U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents |
| Children | Family can be added to an account; check current terms for minors | Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent |
| Included with Global Entry | No | Yes |
The verdict: If you choose one, choose TSA PreCheck: it’s inexpensive, lasts five years and makes the screening itself easier. Add CLEAR if you fly frequently from airports where ID lines run long, and use the two together for the quickest trip through security.
Choose TSA PreCheck if…
…you want the biggest improvement for the least money. PreCheck changes how you’re screened: in PreCheck lanes, you typically keep on shoes, belts and light jackets and leave laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in your bag. Membership lasts five years, and enrollment is a short online application followed by a fingerprint appointment. Your membership comes with a Known Traveler Number to add to every airline profile.
If you travel abroad even once a year, consider Global Entry instead, since it includes PreCheck; our Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck comparison explains the trade-off. Our TSA PreCheck guide covers enrollment providers and renewals.
Choose CLEAR if…
…your bottleneck is the ID-check line. CLEAR members confirm their identity with a quick biometric scan at a CLEAR kiosk and are then escorted to the front of the screening line, skipping the wait to show ID to a TSA officer. It’s a private, annual membership, and it only helps at airports and terminals where CLEAR operates.
CLEAR doesn’t change the screening itself. Without PreCheck, it gets you to the front of the standard lane, not into a faster one. Some premium credit cards reimburse CLEAR membership, so check your card benefits before you pay.
Can you use CLEAR and TSA PreCheck together?
Yes, and that’s how many frequent flyers do it. CLEAR verifies your identity and walks you to the front of the PreCheck lane, then PreCheck makes the screening faster. At busy hubs during peak hours, the combination is the quickest route to your gate.
As of 2026, CLEAR is also one of TSA’s three authorized PreCheck enrollment providers, offering enrollment and renewal at select locations, sometimes bundled with CLEAR+ membership; compare prices before you sign up. Separately, TSA’s PreCheck Touchless ID lets members verify identity by face at select airports with participating airlines. Our REAL ID guide covers the ID you’ll need either way.
Frequently asked questions
Is CLEAR the same as TSA PreCheck?
Is CLEAR worth it if I already have TSA PreCheck?
How much does TSA PreCheck cost in 2026?
Can my children use CLEAR or TSA PreCheck with me?
Official sources
Rules, fees and schedules change — confirm the latest details at the source before you travel.