As airways reopen following the end of COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people visiting airports is also recovering. With more travelers flocking to airports, security screening and identification processes are taking longer than ever before, causing travelers to become increasingly frustrated.
This is where signing up for an airport expedited screening program like TSA PreCheck can significantly reduce unnecessary time spent waiting in line. Experts recommend TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Clear for upcoming travelers based on their travel patterns.
TSA PreCheck
A five-year TSA PreCheck membership is the most affordable at $85. It gives you access to streamlined security procedures at more than 200 airport checkpoints nationwide. If you’re a frequent domestic traveler, TSA PreCheck is perfect for you.
TSA PreCheck makes it easy to get through security. Unlike regular airport security, you can wear shoes, belts, and light coats, and you can leave large electronics like laptops in your bag.
To apply, you can fill out an online application. You will then need to schedule and attend an in-person interview at a location near you. This is for a simple background check and fingerprinting.
Global Entry
Global Entry is a program offered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is best for frequent international travelers as it can significantly reduce the amount of time you spend in immigration and customs procedures.
You can use both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry when you sign up for Global Entry.
However, the membership fee is $100, which is $15 more than TSA PreCheck. Membership lasts for five years and requires completing an application and scheduling an in-person interview.
Global Entry is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or nationals of 17 countries, including South Korea and Taiwan, who have a valid U.S. visa.
Some specialized travel credit cards may waive TSA PreCheck and Global Entry enrollment fees.
These include the Capital One Venture Rewards, Venture X Rewards, United Explorer, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and American Express Platinum, etc. If you pay with these cards, you can get a credit back when your card company charges you.
Clear
Clear uses a traveler’s iris or fingerprint to verify their identity instead of checking their ID. Membership is the most expensive at $189 per year. However, you can add adult family members for $50 per person, and anyone under 18 does not need to sign up and is free to use.
To sign up, you can fill out an online application and visit a local organization to register your biometric information. At the airport, you can scan your iris or fingerprint at a Clear kiosk. An employee will then direct you to the next security checkpoint.
It can also be used to enter sporting events and music concerts. Staples Center in Los Angeles and Madison Square Garden in New York City have their own Clear security checkpoints.
You can get a credit toward the $189 enrollment fee when you use your American Express Green or Platinum card to pay the enrollment fee. You can also save $40 when you pay with the American Express Delta SkyMiles Gold Card or United Explorer Card for $149.
BY HOONSIK WOO [support@koreadaily.com]
