Airport security is the most universally hated part of travel. Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR each offer a way to skip the worst of it -- and most premium credit cards reimburse the application fee. But which one do you actually need? Here is the breakdown.
The Three Programs Compared
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | Global Entry | CLEAR Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $78 / 5 years | $100 / 5 years | $189 / year |
| What it does | Expedited domestic security | Expedited customs + TSA PreCheck | Skip to front of security line |
| Where it works | 200+ US airports | Global Entry kiosks at 75+ airports | 50+ US airports |
| Best for | Domestic-only travelers | International travelers (includes PreCheck) | Frequent flyers at CLEAR airports |
Our Recommendation
Get Global Entry. It costs only $22 more than TSA PreCheck and includes PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs when returning from international trips. If you travel internationally even once per year, the time saved clearing customs pays for the entire cost.
Credit Cards That Reimburse the Fee
- Chase Sapphire Reserve -- $100 Global Entry or $78 PreCheck credit every 4 years
- Amex Platinum -- $100 Global Entry credit every 4.5 years
- Capital One Venture X -- $100 Global Entry credit every 4 years
- Citi Prestige -- $100 Global Entry credit every 5 years
- Amex Green -- $100 Global Entry credit every 4 years
CLEAR: Is It Worth $189/Year?
CLEAR uses biometric scanning (fingerprints and iris) to verify your identity, letting you skip the document check line entirely. Combined with TSA PreCheck, you can go from curbside to gate in under 5 minutes at most airports. The Amex Platinum includes a $189 CLEAR credit, making it free for Platinum cardholders.
Capital One Venture — 75,000-mile welcome bonus
2x miles on every purchase. Transfer to 15+ travel partners.
Capital One Venture X — 75,000-mile welcome bonus
$300 Capital One Travel credit, Priority Pass, 2x on everything.
Amex Platinum — 100,000-point welcome bonus
Centurion Lounge access, Fine Hotels & Resorts, 5x on flights.
Chase Sapphire Reserve — 75,000-point welcome bonus
$300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass, 3x dining/travel.
Stack Global Entry + CLEAR + TSA PreCheck for the fastest possible airport experience. With the right credit cards, all three can be free. Track which cards provide these benefits in Pointify Wallet.
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