Is TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Worth the Cost? A Traveler's Guide to Skipping the Lines.
- Joy Bartholomew
- Jun 4
- 5 min read
Airport security lines can feel like the ultimate travel buzzkill—long waits, unpacking bags, and the inevitable shoe removal. If you’re over 50 (or just tired of the hassle), you’ve probably wondered if programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR are worth the price tag. Both promise to get you through security faster, but do they deliver enough value for the cost? Let’s break it down in a no-nonsense way to help you decide what’s right for your travel style.
What Is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program run by the Transportation Security Administration. For a $78 fee (good for five years), you get access to expedited security lanes at over 200 U.S. airports. Think shorter lines, keeping your shoes and belt on, and leaving liquids and laptops in your bag. It’s designed to make security a breeze for low-risk travelers.
How It Works
Apply: Fill out an online application, then schedule an in-person appointment for a background check and fingerprinting (usually takes 10 minutes).
Approval: Most people are approved within a few weeks. You’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to use when booking flights.
At the Airport: Look for the TSA PreCheck lane at security. Show your boarding pass (with the PreCheck logo) and zip through.
The Cost
$78 for five years (about $15.60/year). Renewal is $70 online.
Some credit cards (like Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum) reimburse the fee, so check your card’s benefits.
Kids 17 and under can use the PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent at no extra cost.
Who It’s Best For
Frequent flyers (even just 3–4 trips a year can make it worthwhile).
Travelers who value predictability and less hassle at security.
Anyone flying out of busy airports like Atlanta, LAX, or Chicago, where PreCheck lines are significantly shorter.
The Catch
Not every airport or terminal has a PreCheck lane, though coverage is wide (check TSA’s website for participating airports).
You’re not guaranteed a fast lane every time—peak hours can still mean a short wait.
International flights don’t always honor PreCheck for outbound security (though it helps on your return to the U.S.).
What Is CLEAR?
CLEAR is a private service that uses biometric technology (like iris scans or fingerprints) to verify your identity and whisk you to the front of the security line. It’s available at over 50 U.S. airports and some stadiums or event venues. For $189/year, you skip the ID check line and go straight to the screening process (or the PreCheck lane if പyou’re enrolled in both).
How It Works
Sign Up: Register online or at a CLEAR kiosk at the airport. They’ll scan your eyes and fingerprints.
At the Airport: Head to the CLEAR pod, get verified in seconds, and an escort takes you to the front of the security line (standard or PreCheck).
Membership Perks: Some plans let you add family members or bring a guest for free.
The Cost
$189/year (about $15.75/month). Discounts are available for Delta or United frequent flyers ($119–$149) or through some credit card partnerships.
Family plans: Add up to three adults for $99 each/year. Kids under 18 are free with a member.
Occasional promotions or free trials might lower the upfront cost.
Who It’s Best For
Business travelers or anyone who flies often (10+ trips a year) out of CLEAR-participating airports.
People who hate waiting in any line, especially at massive hubs like JFK, Miami, or San Francisco.
Travelers who want a high-tech, VIP-like experience (and don’t mind the price).
The Catch
CLEAR is pricier than PreCheck and only helps with the ID check, not the screening itself (unless paired with PreCheck).
It’s not available at as many airports as PreCheck, so check if your home airport or frequent destinations offer it.
Some travelers find the biometric tech a bit invasive, though CLEAR says data is encrypted and secure.
Comparing the Value: Is It Worth It?
Let’s weigh the pros and cons based on your travel habits.
TSA PreCheck: An Easy Option for Most
At just $15-ish a year, TSA PreCheck is a steal if you fly even a few times annually. The time saved—often 20–30 minutes per trip at busy airports—adds up fast. Plus, the less stressful experience (no shoe removal, no bag unpacking) is a game-changer for travelers who want to keep things low-key. If your credit card covers the fee, it’s essentially free. The only downside? It’s not universal, and you might still hit a slow line now and then.
Worth it if: You fly 3+ times a year, hate security hassles, or live near a PreCheck-friendly airport.
CLEAR: A Luxury for Frequent Flyers
CLEAR’s $189/year price tag is steep, but it shines for heavy travelers who value every minute. If you’re constantly flying out of CLEAR airports (like Denver, Dallas, or Orlando), the ability to bypass the ID line feels like a superpower. Pairing it with PreCheck is the ultimate combo—you’ll be through security in under 10 minutes most days. But if you only fly a handful of times a year or your airport doesn’t have CLEAR, it’s hard to justify the cost.
Worth it if: You fly 10+ times a year, use CLEAR airports often, or just love the VIP treatment.
Combining Both: The Ultimate Hack
If you’re a road warrior, stacking TSA PreCheck and CLEAR is like having a fast-pass for the airport. CLEAR gets you past the ID check, and PreCheck speeds up the screening. Together, they can cut your security time to 5–10 minutes, even during peak hours. The catch? You’re looking at $267/year ($78 for PreCheck over 5 years + $189 for CLEAR annually), so it’s only practical for frequent flyers or those who can offset costs with credit card perks.
Real Talk: What Travelers Say
We’ve heard from plenty of travelers over 50, and the consensus is clear:
PreCheck fans love the affordability and simplicity. One retiree told us, “I fly to see my grandkids four times a year, and PreCheck makes it so I’m not frazzled before I even board.”
CLEAR users rave about the time savings but admit it’s a splurge. A business traveler shared, “I’m in and out of LAX weekly. CLEAR saves me 20 minutes each trip—worth every penny.”
Some skip both, especially infrequent travelers or those at smaller airports with short lines anyway.
Our Take: Which Should You Choose?
Choose TSA PreCheck if you want an affordable, widely available way to make security less of a headache. It’s a solid bet for most travelers, especially if you fly a few times a year.
Choose CLEAR if you’re a high-frequency flyer, use major airports, and don’t mind paying for convenience.
Skip both if you rarely fly, use small airports with quick lines, or just don’t mind the standard security process.
Final Tip: Check Your Perks
Before you commit, see if your credit card or airline loyalty program covers TSA PreCheck or CLEAR fees. Many premium cards do, which can make the decision a no-brainer. Also, keep an eye out for enrollment events—some airports host pop-up PreCheck or CLEAR sign-ups to make the process even easier.
Ready to Breeze Through Security?
Deciding on TSA PreCheck or CLEAR comes down to how often you travel, where you fly, and what you’re willing to spend for a smoother airport experience. For most, PreCheck is the sweet spot—affordable and effective. But if you’re always on the go, CLEAR might be your ticket to stress-free travel.
Have you tried TSA PreCheck or CLEAR? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear what’s worked for you! Happy travels, and here’s to skipping the lines.
Joy Bartholomew is the founder of Reinvent Retired Travel and Wellness. She is a travel advisor specializing in helping empty-nesters, retirees, and the "50+ travelers" find their perfect vacation, whether it's a new city, country, or continent. She enjoys helping couples, individuals and groups check off itineraries from their bucket-list, and enjoy all of the luxuries and comforts in midlife on a mid-level budget. As a yoga teacher, she works with the same 50+ travelers to improve their health and wellness so they can travel better for longer and enjoy all of life's blessings.
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