Traveling through airports during the holidays can be a headache, with millions of people expected to fly this week, resulting in longer security line wait times. Many travelers are now opting for premium services like TSA PreCheck and Clear, both of which promise faster security lines, but the choice between the two can be confusing.
TSA PreCheck, a government program, was launched in 2011 to expedite the screening process for frequent fliers. The program gained popularity in 2013 and saw its membership grow to 2 million by 2016. Cleared lines at TSA checkpoints are available to TSA PreCheck members.
Clear, a private security company partly supported by airlines, allows members to bypass ID verification at certain airports by using biometric technology. However, Clear's popularity has resulted in longer wait times as more people sign up.
Many airports are installing 3D baggage scanners, which could lengthen wait times as they require passengers to remove smaller items from their bags. Additionally, staff shortages, a shortage of pilots, and increased passenger numbers have all contributed to longer lines.
Critics argue that while Clear may offer a faster entry process, it's less so during peak times. In contrast, TSA PreCheck lanes are generally shorter, with most travelers waiting between 4 to 10 minutes.
The cost of TSA PreCheck membership is $78 for five years, while Clear charges $199 per year, although first-time members can get a five-year TSA PreCheck membership for free with their Clear purchase.
In conclusion, while both services aim to minimize wait times, TSA PreCheck might be the better option for frequent travelers looking for a more cost-effective solution. Despite Clear's biometric verification, its high annual fee and limited access points make it less appealing for many travelers.
Source:
edition.cnn.com
Enrichment Data:
Factors Impacting Wait Times for TSA PreCheck and Clear Security Lines
- Staffing and Technology:
- TSA PreCheck:
- Improved staffing and technology have significantly reduced wait times at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, with average wait times falling to just 4 minutes in January 2025[1].
- The expanded capacity of TSA PreCheck lanes helps to reduce bottlenecks and improve throughput during busy periods[1].
- Clear:
- While Clear uses biometric technology for quick identity checks, its limited number of access points may restrict its impact on efficiency during peak periods[1].
- Passenger Volume:
- TSA PreCheck:
- The streamlined security processes and reduced screening requirements in PreCheck lanes at Atlanta's airport have been instrumental in decreasing wait times[1].
- The additional four lanes at the ATL airport further improve processing times, especially during holiday travel periods[1].
- Clear:
- The sheer volume of users can sometimes impact the effectiveness of Clear's biometric check-ins, leading to longer wait times if too many people arrive at once[1].
- Security Measures and Screening Process:
- TSA PreCheck:
- The reduced screening requirements for PreCheck passengers, like not needing to remove shoes or laptops, contribute to faster processing times[1].
- Clear:
- Clear allows travelers to bypass the initial verification process using biometric data, speeding up the entry process but not always offering faster times during peak hours compared to TSA PreCheck[2].
- Biometric Scanning:
- TSA PreCheck:
- The use of biometric scanning in PreCheck lanes at ATL reduces processing times and errors, enhancing the efficiency of the screening process[1].
- Clear:
- Clear's biometric scanning technology is primarily designed for speed but may not always be faster during peak moments than TSA PreCheck[1].
- Airport Infrastructure and Modifications:
- TSA PreCheck:
- Terminal modifications and tech updates at Atlanta's airport aim to accommodate increasing passenger volume, further reducing wait times[1].
- Clear:
- The limited number of Clear stations at airports restricts its ability to reduce congestion during peak travel periods[1].
Comparison of Speed:
- TSA PreCheck:
- At Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, TSA PreCheck wait times are generally shorter, with most travelers waiting between 4 to 10 minutes, especially during busy hours[1].
- Clear:
- While Clear can reduce wait times by providing quick identity verification, its actual performance during peak moments often shows longer wait times compared to TSA PreCheck, especially at busy terminals like ATL's international terminal[1].
Comparison of Cost:
- TSA PreCheck:
- The cost for a five-year membership varies depending on the enrollment partner, with prices ranging from $76.75 to $85 annually[2].
- Clear:
- The standard price for an annual Clear membership is $199, although first-time enrollees can get a five-year TSA PreCheck membership for free with their purchase[2].
In summary, TSA PreCheck offers faster and more cost-effective security screening, especially due to its streamlined processes and expanded lane capacity. While Clear provides an alternative with biometric verification, its limited access points and high annual fee make it less appealing for budget-conscious travelers.
