Ultimate Airport Time Saver

Airport security lines are getting longer and longer.  U.S. airports have a number of different programs to help speed frequent travelers through the checkpoints.  Perks of these programs include avoiding hassles like taking off shoes and removing laptops and liquids from carry-ons.  Here are details about three of the biggest programs and what they offer.  Having one of these may make the difference between catching and missing your next flight.

TSA Pre-Check

This program costs $85 for a 5 year membership and requires an in person interview at any one of the 350 plus enrollment centers across the United States.  Children 12 years and under are able to use this program free with a family member that is enrolled.  With the program you will get access to dedicated security lines with far fewer people than the standard lines.  Passengers with the TSA Pre-Check are not required to remove their shoes, belts, laptops or liquids.  This is available nationwide at more than 160 different airports and is primarily for U.S. citizens that travel within the United States.  More Information About TSA Pre-Check

Global Entry

This program costs $100 for a 5 year membership and requires an in person interview at any one of the 80 plus enrollment centers across the United States.  With this program, passengers get expedited clearance at customs and border checkpoints at most of the U.S. airports and select international airports.  Passengers can just scan their fingerprint instead of filling out the standard forms normally required.  The nice thing about this program is that with Global Entry, you are automatically eligible for the TSA Pre-Check.  More Information About Global Entry

CLEAR

This program costs $179 a year.  Additional family members over the age of 18 can be added for an extra $50 per year.  CLEAR lanes are currently in only 13 major airports and allows the passengers to use your fingerprint instead of a license / passport to get through the security ID check.  This allows you to bypass the long ID lines and go straight to the physical screening.  Combining CLEAR with TSA Pre-Check will allow you to skip the ID check line and have access to expedited security.  More Information About CLEAR

Remember, not every airline and airport participates in these programs.  Be sure to check before you fly.