TSA PreCheck Vs. Clear: Which Airport Security Shortcut Is Worth Paying For In 2026?

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR+ both promise faster airport security, but they reduce different bottlenecks—and the better pick for 2026 depends on your typical routes and frequency of flying. TSA PreCheck is a U.S. TSA trusted-traveler program that speeds physical screening at participating checkpoints; it doesn’t eliminate inspection and passengers can still be selected for extra checks. CLEAR+ focuses on identity verification using biometric technology in dedicated lanes before TSA screening, so it also doesn’t remove the need for security screening. Cost typically favors PreCheck first: about $77–$85 for five years versus $219 annually for CLEAR+, though qualifying bundled offers can change the math.