Before you get on a plane, airport security guides you through a process: you must first locate the correct line, then present your identification, take out your laptop, and remove your shoes. It's strangely poetic that these sometimes mystifying airport security regulations are streamlined and hastened by two similarly perplexing programs, TSA PreCheck and Clear, each with their own designated lines and purposes. But what are these purposes, and which one is superior?
The essential point to understand is that there are two key aspects to airport security: verifying your identification and screening your belongings and body. Clear accelerates the former, while TSA PreCheck speeds up the latter. Let's delve into how both systems operate!
What is TSA PreCheck?
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Operated by the government's Transportation Security Administration (TSA), TSA PreCheck aims to expedite the process of clearing you and your possessions through security at more than 200 US airports. Over 85 airlines are involved, and being enrolled will be reflected on your boarding pass, allowing you to use the designated lane. Following verification of your ID by a Transportation Security Officer (TSO), you can bypass the need to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket, as well as keep your laptop and liquids in your carry-on bag. In addition, you may walk through a metal detector instead of undergoing a full-body scanner.
While the program doesn't ensure a quicker passage through security, the increasing number of people utilizing TSA PreCheck means that at times, the line can be as lengthy as the regular queue, or even longer. Nonetheless, you're likely to have a more seamless experience compared to not being enrolled in the program.
What is Clear?
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Clear is a special membership program designed to speed up the process of verifying documents and identities. Currently accessible at over 50 airports in the United States, Clear Plus enables you to confirm your identity swiftly at biometric security kiosks using fingerprint and eye scans. Once your identity is validated, a Clear staff member will accompany you directly to the baggage and body scanning area, allowing you to bypass the queues of people waiting for their physical IDs to be checked by agents.
Moreover, this service isn't limited to airports only. You can also avoid certain security procedures at selected stadiums and arenas in the US, such as Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden, by using Clear kiosks. This feature may appeal to sports and music enthusiasts. In addition, you can skip the waiting line and proceed directly to your rental car at specific Avis locations, as well as secure a place in the security line at chosen domestic and international airports.
What are the fees for TSA PreCheck and Clear services?
TSA PreCheck costs $78 every five years and is automatically included with Global Entry membership, which is a separate program. Clear Plus, an airport service, is priced at $189 per year, while the regular Clear service is complimentary for use at stadiums and arenas across the US after signing up and downloading the app. Children under 17 can accompany you in the Clear Plus line, and for an additional $70 per person, you can include access for up to three more adults, such as family members or friends.
If you're a member of the US military or a government employee, Clear discounts might be accessible. Certain travel rewards credit cards provide complimentary access to one or both programs (usually through a credit to cover the membership fees), so check your benefits to determine if they sway your decision.
Do you require TSA PreCheck if you have Clear?
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If you prefer to wear your shoes during the process, Clear won't be of assistance as it's specifically designed to expedite identity verification. However, there's no restriction against applying for both services if you wish.
Can Clear and TSA PreCheck be used in conjunction?
Absolutely! For frequent travelers, having both can be beneficial. With Clear, you can swiftly undergo identity verification and then move to the TSA PreCheck line for expedited luggage screening, where you can keep your shoes on, leave your laptop in your bag, and avoid the scanner.
How can one apply for TSA PreCheck and Clear?
To get TSA PreCheck, you must complete an online form, pay the fee, and attend a brief in-person meeting at one of the many enrollment centers. During this process, you'll be fingerprinted and photographed, undergo a background check, and might have to wait for approval for three to 60 days. Once approved, you'll obtain a Known Traveler Number to add to your flight reservations. Children over 12 can apply, while those under 12 can use the lanes alongside a member guardian.
Similarly, Clear Plus also involves online registration and an in-person step at the airport. You can finalize your application at a Clear airport location where a representative will assist you in answering identification questions, scanning your fingerprints, eyes, and documents, and taking a photo. Minors under 18 can access the Clear lane when traveling with a member. For those exclusively utilizing Clear at stadiums and venues, simply download the app, sign up for a free account, and adhere to the given instructions. A selfie and some personal details are all that's necessary to receive a QR code for scanning upon arrival.
Is TSA PreCheck superior to Clear?
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Both services have dedicated lines that can reduce your wait time, and Clear offers extra perks for sports and music enthusiasts. Nevertheless, TSA PreCheck is more widespread, cost-effective, and lets you bypass the hassle of taking off your shoes, belt, and laptop in front of a TSA officer who seems weary of reminding people to place their items in a bin.
Effortless airport parking solutions: simplify your journey with our smart booking platform – ParkingNearAirports.io!
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Traveling worldwide shouldn't be something tiring – conversely, that's the time you can enjoy both the amazing landscapes of our Earth and joint activities with your loved ones. Nevertheless, things don't always go as planned, and we're at risk to face some challenges even at such an enjoyable moment. One such problem is actually airport parking, specifically its price. Let's have a look at the situation a bit closer.
If you used to get to the airport you're flying from by your own car, you probably know what we're talking about – the question of parking cost arises every time. You'll be definitely shocked – even though most US airports provide travelers with on-site parking, which allows them to leave their vehicles for their entire journey there, such a parking type is unfairly overpriced. Choosing this parking option, your next trip just might cost you a fortune. And that's not even considering it's complicated to find a free parking spot for your car. Since nobody wants to waste money and travel inconveniently, there begs the following question: is there actually any solution?
And we're happy to say – yes, there is one!
What is off-site parking and why is it worth choosing this option exactly?
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Your best solution is already here – off-site parking lots that are just a few miles from the airport. Our smart booking platform with easy-to-use interface, ParkingNearAirports.io, helps our clients to select off-site airport parking lots with the most affordable rates, along with high-quality service. In addition, we offer the services for the major US cruise ports that are located in Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas as well.
Why choose an off-site parking option? The answer is pretty straightforward – it's cheap and convenient. Using our services, first of all, you'll avoid the following difficulties you might face while getting to the airport you're departing from:
- Crowded parking lots,
- Carrying the luggage all the way through the parking lot,
- Expensive fees without great service, and much more.
Everything works simply as well: after you've driven to the entrance, you'll be met by a parking lot staff who will take your luggage from your vehicle and load it onto the shuttle, which will take you and your bags to the airport terminal. Then, your car will be securely parked at the parking lot itself.
By the way, free shuttles going back and forth between the parking lot and the airport terminals are available 24/7. All that's required of you is to make a call and inform staff about the time suitable for you.
Forget about all the nightmares by choosing ParkingNearAirports.io!
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For better understanding, we'd like to give you a good example.
Let's imagine that you live in NYC, New York. If you're going to visit San Francisco, California, use the services of affordable parking near LGA Airport with shuttle. In the event that you're flying from San Francisco, choose cheap SFO off-airport parking. As you can see, everything just depends on the place where your journey begins.
Our friendly platform also provides travelers with special airport parking coupons that can make the price almost two times less. And that's without taking into account that our services will cost you up to 70% less at all! So don't forget to monitor all the updates and use them while booking!
Making a reservation is easy with us – it's possible to complete the process through a few clicks on our website. Besides, if your plans change, you can cancel hassle-free and get a refund.
If you still have any questions, turn to our easy-to-navigate website – there, you'll find all the required info connected with the off-site parking. Airport parking, along with its pricing, provided by the majority of US airports, is a true nightmare, but if you know the place, your life can be much easier. Let yourself travel in full comfort right now – Park Smart & Choose Convenience together with us! And have a nice trip!
