 TITLE: What Is the Difference Between TSA Precheck and CLEAR at Airport Security? CONTENT: TSA Precheck is a program run by the U.S. government's Transportation Security Administration. First launched in 2013, the program now extends to over 10 million members who can use expedited security lines at over 200 airports when flying one of 73 participating airlines. The TSA estimates that 99% of travelers with Precheck have screening wait times of five minutes or less on average.\nTo join, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and submit an online application. Next, you must schedule a follow-up appointment with a TSA officer at one of the over 380 enrollment centers around the country. During the interview, your identity and personal information will be verified, and your fingerprints taken, then you must pay the non-refundable $85 application fee. Afterward, you can check the status of your application online. If you are approved, you can find out your Known Traveler Number at that point.\nOnce you have a Known Traveler Number, you must enter it into your various airline frequent-flier accounts to be designated as a Precheck passenger when you fly. When you check in for flights, you should see the TSA Precheck logo on your boarding pass, which will allow you to use the TSA Precheck security lines at the airport. If you do not see it, you can ask a check-in agent at the airport to add your Known Traveler Number to your reservation at that point, and this should add the designation to your boarding pass.\nUnlike regular travelers, those with TSA Precheck usually do not have to take laptops and liquids out of their bags, or remove shoes and belts when going through security, which speeds up the process. TSA Precheck membership lasts five years and can be renewed up to six months before it expires. You have to pay the $85 application fee again each time you renew. END