If you fly two or more times a year from US airports, yes: shorter lines, shoes and laptops stay put, and many credit cards reimburse the fee. Global Entry costs slightly more and includes PreCheck plus faster US immigration — the better buy for international flyers.
TSA PreCheck (about $78 for five years) gives a dedicated lane where you keep shoes, belts and light jackets on and leave laptops and liquids in the bag. Lines are usually far shorter.
Global Entry (about $120 for five years) includes PreCheck and adds expedited US immigration on arrival via kiosks or the mobile app. If you take even one international trip a year, choose this one. The interview can take months to schedule — apply early or use enrollment-on-arrival.
CLEAR is a private identity-verification line that jumps you to the front of the ID check; it stacks with PreCheck but is pricier and only at some airports.
Since 2026, PreCheck membership is also the key to the Gateside program that lets non-flyers through security at pilot airports.
Many premium credit cards reimburse the application fee.
Related questions
How long does airport security take?
Usually 10–30 minutes, but 45–60+ at large hubs during morning and holiday peaks. Many airports publish live wait times; PreCheck, Fast Track and off-peak departures are the reliable ways to shorten it. Full answer →
How early should I get to the airport?
Two hours before a domestic flight, three before an international one, and add 30–45 minutes at mega-hubs, on holiday weekends, or if you're checking bags. PreCheck/Fast Track lets you trim about 30 minutes. Full answer →
Airline, airport and government rules change without notice. Treat this as a starting point and confirm with the airline or authority for your specific trip. Request a correction if something is out of date.