Advertiser Disclosure: The Rewards Mom has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

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Getting through airport security with kids can is not for the faint of heart. Between juggling snacks, backpacks, and emotional meltdowns, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a painfully long line.

The good news? You have three real options to make airport days easier: TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR. We’ve used all three, and once you try them, it’s hard to go back.

In this post, I’m breaking down:

• What each program actually does
• Which one families should choose
• Step-by-step process to sign up for each

If you’re just getting started with points and perks, here’s a list of travel credit cards that have credits for some of these programs and my beginner’s guide to help get you started.

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TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry vs CLEAR: What’s the Difference?

TSA PreCheck (Best Starter Option for Families)

Speeds up the security screening part. You usually:

• keep shoes on
• keep laptops/liquids in your bag
• use a designated lane

Family perk: Kids 17 and under can go through the TSA PreCheck lane with an enrolled parent/guardian for free (when traveling together).

Cost: Pricing depends on which authorized provider you enroll with, but it’s typically in the ~$70–$85 range for about five years.

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Global Entry (Best if You Travel Internationally)

Global Entry is about coming back into the U.S. faster after an international trip. It also includes TSA PreCheck, so you get the best of both:

• TSA PreCheck benefits when departing
• expedited U.S. customs when returning

Cost: $120 for five years.

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CLEAR (Fastest Line-Skipping Option)

CLEAR is different because it skips the TSA ID line (the part where you hand over your ID). It uses biometrics, and you verify at a CLEAR kiosk.

CLEAR is best when:

• your airport is historically horrible,
• the TSA ID line is the real bottleneck, and
• you want the fastest possible flow (especially paired with PreCheck).

Family perk: CLEAR says kids under 18 can go with you for free in the CLEAR lane; however, it isn’t offered as a perk by a ton of cards whereas TSA Precheck and Global Entry are.

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Exactly How to Sign Up (Step-by-Step)

TSA PreCheck

Step 1: Start at the official TSA PreCheck page.
Go to TSA’s PreCheck page and choose an authorized enrollment provider and location near you.

Step 2: Fill out the online application.
Most providers let you pre-enroll online in just a few minutes.

Step 3: Schedule an appointment (or walk in, if available).
You’ll go to an enrollment center to finish your enrollment.

Step 4: Bring your ID documents.
Your provider will tell you exactly what to bring (it’s usually a passport OR a driver’s license + supporting document, depending on your situation).

Step 5: Get your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and add it to reservations.
Once approved, you’ll receive a KTN. Add it to your airline profiles (and any bookings you make) so TSA PreCheck shows up on boarding passes.

Family note: Remember, kids 17 and under can typically come with you in the TSA PreCheck lane for free when traveling together.

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Global Entry

Step 1: Apply online through the Trusted Traveler Programs site.
You’ll create an account, complete the application, and pay the fee.

Step 2: Wait for “conditional approval.”
This is normal. Global Entry requires a background check before you can schedule the interview.

Step 3: Complete your interview (two options):

• Option A: Schedule an interview at a Global Entry enrollment center, or
• Option B: Use Enrollment on Arrival if your airport supports it (you finish the interview when you land back in the U.S. from an international trip).

Step 4: Once approved, add your PASSID/KTN to airline profiles.
Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, but you still need to add your number to your reservations so it prints on your boarding pass.

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CLEAR

Step 1: Confirm CLEAR is at your airport(s).
CLEAR isn’t everywhere, so make sure your home airport (or your most common airports) actually have CLEAR lanes.

Step 2: Sign up online.
Create your CLEAR account and choose your plan.

Step 3: Finish in-person at the airport CLEAR kiosk.
You’ll verify your identity and enroll your biometrics (this part is quick and happens right at the airport).

Step 4: Use CLEAR every time you fly (and pair it with PreCheck if you have it).
CLEAR skips the ID line. TSA PreCheck speeds up the screening lane. Together, they’re the fastest combo.

Family note: CLEAR says kids under 18 can come with you in the CLEAR lane for free.

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How to Get These Programs Free with the Right Credit Card

Many travel credit cards offer a statement credit that reimburses the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and some also offer credits for CLEAR. Two quick tips that make this extra useful for families:

1. You don’t always have to use the credit for yourself. You can often pay for a spouse/partner’s application with your card and get reimbursed. A LOT of cards offer this benefit, so if your family is signed up, use your credits as Christmas gifts!
2. You can stack credits across cards. One card reimburses one adult, another card reimburses the other, your kids get in free, and the airport just got a whole lot easier.

Here’s the list of cards that cover the cost, and yes, a few of them offer other helpful travel benefits too.

If you’re also earning points through online purchases, don’t miss my guide All About Shopping Portals for Families. Shopping portals are a super easy way to boost your points balance while booking travel or buying travel gear.

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More Travel Tips for Families

Planning a trip soon? These posts might help:

• Hyatt Family Plan: How to Save 50% on a Second Room
• Travel Portals for Beginners: The Easiest Way for Families to Use (and Earn) Points
• How to Use Your Travel Points for Family Vacations Without the Stress: 5 Ideas That Work

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Stay in The Loop

Sign up for my weekly email for more smart travel tips, points strategies, and ways to make family travel easier (and cheaper!).

You can also follow along on Instagram or join my private Facebook group to connect with other moms doing the same thing.

If you’re ready to start earning points for your next vacation, this beginner’s guide is the best place to start.

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Advertiser Disclosure: The Rewards Mom has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.oducts. The Rewards Mom and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.