Programs That Get You Through Airport Security Faster

You know the airport security routine.  Take off your shoes, belt and jacket and put them in a bin.  Remove everything from your pockets.  Place your computer and liquids under  3 ounces in another bin.   Go through the security scanner and hope you don't beep.  And hope that you aren't one of the lucky random checks or that one of your items doesn't look suspicious on the x-ray. 

I am all for security (though not sure all of this is necessary), especially when flying.  But it is inconvenient and frustrating.  So when I discovered TSA Pre✓® , I was elated!  ​

After years of standing in the general security line, I signed up for TSA Pre✓® .  BEST thing I ever did.  Shorter security lines, no fumbling with shoes, computer and liquids and no pat downs!   SO EASY!    A bit annoying when the line isn't available at some airports or open during early or late shifts, but I can live with that given the ease most other times.   The lines are getting longer as the program expands, however still better than general security. 

FAST FORWARD TO TODAY....   

Since getting TSA Pre✓®  I also signed up for Global Entry.     I've been through my share of passport control lines, some moving quickly, others taking hours.  Global Entry has taken customs clearance in the US down to about about 5 minutes.  Especially helpful if you have a tight connection.   I went through Miami a few months ago - walked past the line with well over 150+ people,  went to an open Global Entry kiosk, and was out the door in less than 5 minutes.  
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AND NOW IT'S EVEN EASIER.....

Mobile Passport Control, is free, and allows US citizens and Canadian visitors to use a mobile app on your smart phone that expedites entry into the U.S.  Simply complete the information when you download the app.   You usually go through the same line as Global Entry, and in a few minutes you are on your way to grab your checked luggage.   Note however that this is available only at certain airports (last count about 30) and ports.  The free version doesn't allow you to store your information anymore - you'll need the paid version for that convenience.

CLEAR uses biometric information (fingerprints and eye scans) to fast track you to the security screening areas beyond the initial checkpoints.  

Airport security consists of two two steps: Identity verification and security screening.  Some programs include one, others both.  
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So what are the differences between all these programs?

• TSA Pre✓® allows approved low-risk travelers to experience faster, more efficient TSA screenings at participating US airport checkpoints for 5 full years— for $85.  This program is only available for flights in the US with airlines who participate in the program.  Currently 200 airports have the program.
• Global Entry provides all the same benefits as TSA Pre✓® plus expedited US customs screening for international  air travelers  when entering the US.  The cost is $100 and is valid for 5 years.
• Mobile Passport helps you breeze through US customs screening.  This free app has the same benefits as Global Entry for customs clearance, however it does not include TSA Pre✓®  and is currently only available at 26 airports and 2 cruise ports (Port Everglades and Miami).
• While you still must go through the metal detectors and your bags need to be scanned, Clear lets you bypass the initial screening line (where you show your boarding pass and ID to the TSA agent), where a backup often occurs.  As of this writing it s available in 40 airports.  A privately run program, it costs $179 annually.  

​Which one is best?

• If you don't fly very often and you don't mind standing in the occasional line, you probably don't need any of these programs.   
• If you only fly domestically and you'd like to get through security with less hassle, go with TSA Pre✓® . 
• If you are a frequent flyer domestically, especially in major airports where TSA Pre✓® lines have started to get longer, you may want to consider Clear, albeit the expense.  Note: Delta  has partnered with Clear and offers their card members a special discount on the program.  Add your SkyMiles account during the enrollment process.  
• If you fly internationally and frequently arrive at one of the 30 airports offering Mobile Passport, save yourself some money with the Mobile Passport app.  Just remember though that it does not include TSA Pre✓® 
• If you frequently fly internationally and arrive a various airports, Global Entry offers the most flexibility plus the added bonus of TSA Pre✓® .
• If you frequently travel only between the US and Mexico or the US and Canada,  look at the SENTRI or NEXUS programs.  

PRO TIP: Check your credit card benefits.  As of this writing, there are 17 cards that offer Global Entry reimbursement (i.e. American Express, American Airlines, Capital One Venture, Chase Sapphire). 

For complete program details and eligibility go to:

• TSA Pre✓®
• Trusted Travel programs (Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI)
• Mobile Passport
• Clear

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