Key Points

• Premium travel cards offer statement credits covering TSA PreCheck ($78.85) or Global Entry ($120) fees every four to five years.
• Only select American Express cards provide full CLEAR Plus reimbursement ($209 annually), while other cards offer discounted rates through airline partnerships.
• The right card depends on your travel frequency and whether you prioritize government programs (TSA PreCheck/Global Entry) or private expedited screening (CLEAR).

Introduction

Standing in airport security lines is nobody's idea of a good time. If you travel more than a few times a year, programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR can transform your airport experience from stressful to seamless. TSA PreCheck lets you skip removing shoes, laptops, and liquids, while CLEAR uses biometric verification to bypass the ID check line entirely.

Here's the good news: you don't have to pay full price for these time-saving programs. Many travel credit cards offer statement credits that cover or reduce the cost of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and even CLEAR memberships. We'll show you exactly which cards offer these benefits and help you choose the right one for your travel style.

Understanding TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR

Before we dive into the cards, let's clarify what each program offers.

TSA PreCheck costs $78.85 for five years and provides access to dedicated security lanes at U.S. airports. You'll skip removing shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, and liquids. It's available at 200+ airports and works with 90+ airlines. The application requires an in-person interview and background check.

Global Entry costs $120 for five years and includes all TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs screening when returning to the U.S. from international destinations. If you travel internationally even once or twice a year, Global Entry offers better value than standalone TSA PreCheck since you get both benefits for just $41 more over five years.

CLEAR Plus costs $209 annually and uses biometric verification (fingerprints or iris scans) to confirm your identity at airport security. You'll bypass the ID check line entirely and head straight to physical screening. CLEAR is available at 50+ airports and some sports venues. Unlike government programs, CLEAR doesn't change the screening process itself, but it does get you to the front of the line faster.

The most efficient combination? CLEAR Plus paired with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. You'll use CLEAR to skip the ID line, then use TSA PreCheck lanes for expedited screening without removing shoes or electronics.

Best Credit Cards with TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Benefits

Premium Cards with Full Reimbursement

The Platinum Card from American Express

The Amex Platinum offers up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four years for Global Entry or 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck. What makes this card stand out is that both the primary cardholder and additional Platinum cardholders on the same account each receive their own credit. This is unique among premium cards.

The card carries a $695 annual fee, but the TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit is just one of many travel benefits. You'll also get $200 in airline fee credits, $200 in Uber credits, and access to Centurion Lounges and other premium airport lounges worldwide.

Apply for The Platinum Card from American Express.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Venture X provides up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years. With a $395 annual fee, it's considerably less expensive than the Amex Platinum while still offering premium travel benefits.

The Venture X earns 2X miles on every purchase, with 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel and 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. You'll also get a $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass lounge access, and access to Capital One Lounges.

Apply for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

The Sapphire Reserve offers up to $120 statement credit for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS every four years. The $550 annual fee includes a $300 annual travel credit that effectively reduces the cost to $250.

This card earns 3X points on travel and dining, 5X points on Lyft rides, and 10X points on hotels and car rentals through Chase Travel. Points transfer to 14 airline and hotel partners, often at excellent value.

Apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

American Express Business Platinum Card

Business travelers benefit from the same Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit as the personal Platinum Card. The $695 annual fee is often easier to justify for business owners who can write off the expense.

The Business Platinum earns 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com, plus 1.5X points on purchases of $5,000 or more. You'll get access to Centurion Lounges and other premium lounges, plus valuable business perks like Dell credits and wireless credits.

Apply for the American Express Business Platinum Card.

Mid-Tier Cards with TSA PreCheck Benefits

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The regular Venture card offers the same up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit as the Venture X, but with a more accessible $95 annual fee. This makes it one of the best values for TSA PreCheck benefits.

You'll earn 2X miles on every purchase, which you can redeem for travel statement credits or transfer to airline partners. While it lacks the lounge access and premium perks of the Venture X, it's an excellent choice if you primarily want the expedited security benefit.

Apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card

The Premium Rewards card provides up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years with a $95 annual fee. While the credit is slightly lower than competitors, the overall value proposition remains strong.

The card earns 2X points on travel and dining, with points worth up to 50% more when you have a qualifying Bank of America deposit account through their Preferred Rewards program. You'll also get a $100 airline incidental credit.

Apply for the Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card.

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

The Altitude Reserve offers up to $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry with a $400 annual fee. While pricier than some options, you'll also get $325 in annual travel credits, Priority Pass lounge access, and 3X points on travel and mobile wallet purchases.

Points are highly flexible, redeemable for travel at 1.5 cents per point or as statement credits for travel purchases.

Apply for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card.

Airline Co-Branded Cards with TSA PreCheck

Several airline cards offer TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credits, making them excellent choices if you're loyal to a specific airline.

Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card – Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years. The card also includes Delta Sky Club access and strong earning rates on Delta purchases.

Apply for the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card.

United Quest Card – Statement credit up to $120 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, plus two United Club passes annually and strong United earning rates.

Apply for the United Quest Card.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card – Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, along with automatic Marriott Platinum Elite status and a free night award annually.

Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card.

Best Credit Cards with CLEAR Plus Benefits

CLEAR Plus reimbursement is far less common than TSA PreCheck benefits. Currently, only select American Express cards offer full statement credits for CLEAR membership.

Cards with Full CLEAR Plus Reimbursement ($209)

The Platinum Card from American Express – Annual statement credit up to $189 for CLEAR Plus membership, which when combined with various Amex Offers can cover the full $209 cost. This benefit stacks with the separate Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.

American Express Green Card – Provides up to $100 statement credit for CLEAR Plus, along with 3X points on travel and dining. With a $150 annual fee, it's the most affordable Amex card offering CLEAR reimbursement.

Apply for the American Express Green Card.

Centurion Card – Full CLEAR Plus reimbursement is included among the extensive suite of benefits on the invitation-only Amex Centurion Card.

Discounted CLEAR Plus Rates Through Airlines

Several airline co-branded cards provide discounted CLEAR Plus pricing through partner benefits:

Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards – All Delta Amex cards (Blue, Gold, Platinum, Reserve) offer CLEAR Plus for $109 annually instead of $209. That's a $100 savings each year, though you'll need to pay out of pocket rather than receive a statement credit.

United MileagePlus Cards – United cardholders can access CLEAR Plus for $199 annually ($10 savings). General United MileagePlus members also receive this discounted rate.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Cards – Alaska cardholders get CLEAR Plus for $199 annually, plus earn 1,500 bonus miles when signing up. Elite members earn an additional 1,250 miles annually when renewing.

How to Maximize Both Programs

The smartest strategy combines TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (covered by your credit card) with CLEAR Plus for the ultimate airport experience. Here's how to make it work:

Step 1: Get Global Entry (Not Just TSA PreCheck)

Choose Global Entry over standalone TSA PreCheck if your card covers up to $120. Global Entry costs $120, TSA PreCheck costs $78.85, and Global Entry includes all TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs. Unless you never travel internationally, Global Entry provides better value.

Step 2: Use Your Credit Card Benefit

Charge the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee to your eligible card. The statement credit typically posts within 8 weeks. Remember, this benefit renews every four to five years depending on your card, timing perfectly with program renewals.

Step 3: Add CLEAR Plus Strategically

If you have an Amex card with CLEAR reimbursement, enroll in CLEAR Plus and use your statement credit. If not, consider whether you travel frequently enough to justify the $209 annual cost. Travelers flying 6+ times annually from CLEAR-participating airports typically find the time savings worthwhile.

You can also bundle CLEAR Plus with TSA PreCheck enrollment through CLEAR for $209 total, receiving a refund for the TSA PreCheck portion after approval.

Step 4: Share Benefits When Possible

Some strategies to extend coverage:

• Amex Platinum additional cardholders each get their own Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
• CLEAR Plus includes children under 18 at no extra cost when traveling with you
• CLEAR Plus family plans add up to three adults for $125 each per year

Comparing Your Options

For infrequent travelers (1-3 flights yearly): Get the Capital One Venture card for its $95 annual fee and Global Entry credit. The $120 credit every four years effectively covers the annual fee, and you'll earn solid rewards on everyday spending.

For frequent domestic travelers: Consider an Amex Platinum if you value lounge access, or a Delta SkyMiles Reserve if you fly Delta regularly. Both offer Global Entry credits plus the discounted CLEAR Plus rate through Delta.

For frequent international travelers: The Amex Platinum or Capital One Venture X both shine here. Global Entry saves significant time at customs, and these cards offer robust international travel benefits including trip protection and lounge access.

For business travelers: The Amex Business Platinum combines Global Entry credits with business-specific perks like Dell credits and coworking space access. If you can expense the annual fee, it's hard to beat.

For budget-conscious travelers: The Capital One Venture offers the best value with a $95 annual fee and full Global Entry credit. Alternatively, check if you qualify for free or discounted programs through military service, Department of Defense employment, or certain frequent flyer elite statuses.

Important Details to Remember

Credit Timing and Frequency

Most cards provide the statement credit once every four years for Global Entry or 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck. This matches program renewal cycles. Mark your calendar to use the benefit when renewal comes due.

Application Requirements

You'll need to complete a full application and in-person interview for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. The credit covers the application fee, but approval isn't guaranteed. Most applicants with clean records are approved within 2-4 weeks, though some interviews are booked months in advance.

Combining with Other Benefits

CLEAR Plus members who enroll in TSA PreCheck through CLEAR's website can bundle both services. You'll pay CLEAR's enrollment fee upfront and receive a rebate after completing both applications, potentially allowing you to use your card's statement credit for the TSA PreCheck portion.

Family Coverage

While most credit card benefits only cover one person, you can:

• Add authorized users to Amex Platinum (each gets their own credit)
• Use CLEAR Plus family plans to add relatives at discounted rates
• Pay for family members' TSA PreCheck out of pocket (children under 12 can use TSA PreCheck lanes when traveling with an enrolled parent)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credits?

No, you'll receive credit for one or the other within the specified time period. Since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and costs only $41 more, choose Global Entry unless you never travel internationally.

Do authorized users get their own credit?

On Amex Platinum cards, yes. Most other cards only provide one credit per account regardless of authorized users.

Can I use my credit for NEXUS or SENTRI?

Many cards that cover Global Entry also cover NEXUS ($50) and sometimes SENTRI ($122.25). Check your specific card's terms. NEXUS is an excellent value if you frequently cross the Canadian border, as it includes Global Entry benefits.

What if my application is denied?

The credit covers the application fee, not approval. If denied, you've used your credit for that cycle. Most denials occur due to past criminal records or customs violations. You can appeal the decision or reapply after the stated waiting period.

Is CLEAR Plus worth it without a credit card benefit?

That depends on your travel patterns. If you fly 6+ times yearly from CLEAR airports during peak hours, the time savings often justify the cost. However, TSA PreCheck alone may be sufficient for less frequent travelers or those flying from smaller airports where security lines move quickly.

Can I share my TSA PreCheck with family?

Your Known Traveler Number is personal and non-transferable. However, children 12 and under can use TSA PreCheck lanes when traveling with an enrolled parent. CLEAR Plus does allow children under 18 to accompany enrolled adults at no charge.

How do I add my Known Traveler Number to reservations?

After approval, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Add this to your airline frequent flyer profile, and it will automatically populate for future bookings. You can also add it manually when booking flights.

Choosing the Right Card for Your Needs

The best card for TSA PreCheck and CLEAR benefits depends on your overall travel profile:

Choose Amex Platinum if you want maximum benefits including lounge access, hotel elite status, and both Global Entry and CLEAR Plus credits. The $695 annual fee is steep but justified for frequent travelers who use all the perks.

Choose Capital One Venture X if you want premium benefits at a lower price point. The $395 annual fee is offset by the $300 travel credit, and you'll get Global Entry plus excellent lounge access.

Choose Capital One Venture if you want the Global Entry benefit without paying a large annual fee. At $95, it's the most cost-effective option for the security benefit alone.

Choose Delta or United co-branded cards if you're loyal to one airline and want discounted CLEAR Plus rates combined with airline-specific perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.

Choose Amex Green if you specifically want CLEAR Plus reimbursement at the lowest annual fee ($150). You'll also earn strong rewards on travel and dining.

The right combination of credit card benefits can save you hundreds of dollars on expedited security programs while dramatically improving your airport experience. Start with Global Entry (covered by most premium travel cards), then add CLEAR Plus if you travel frequently from participating airports. Your time and stress levels will thank you.

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