Should You Get CLEAR Plus or No?

I’ve been getting the question about CLEAR membership a lot lately. Honestly, it depends on the individual. Do you travel often? Does your airport have a Clear Plus section? Is it the same as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry?

CLEAR Plus is a paid airport membership. With this, you can move faster through airport security nationwide in their designated CLEAR Plus lanes at TSA checkpoints. I was introduced to this by one of the CLEAR ambassadors due to me running behind for one of my flights and seeing how long the TSA Precheck line was as well. I signed up for a free trial and decided to move forward with my membership.

The service isn't limited to airports either. You can also bypass parts of security at select U.S. stadiums and arenas, such as Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden, by using Clear kiosks, so sports and music fans might find this perk compelling.

If you have an American Express Card or are a mileage rewards member for Delta or United, there are discounts available. I have linked my Delta Skymiles to CLEAR.

What is the Difference Between CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck? Do I Need Both?

CLEAR Plus allows for a quick identity verification experience at the airport. If you see a blue and white logo that says ‘CLEAR’ then you can enter the CLEAR pod and verify you are you with your eyes or fingerprint instead of waiting to show government issued photo I.D.

‍TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that identifies travelers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved to participate in the program, it allows travelers to pass through expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide with no need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets. This allows travelers to enjoy a more convenient and efficient experience at airport security.

What is TSA PreCheck and How Does It Work?

TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that identifies travelers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved to participate in the program, travelers are eligible for expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide with no need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets.

Is CLEAR Plus the Same as Global Entry?

Clear and Global Entry are very different programs because Clear saves you time going through security screenings, while Global Entry saves you time at customs and immigration upon arrival in the U.S. after traveling internationally.For those who want to get Global Entry, that’s another traveler’s program as well. Click here to read more about my Global Entry process.