The Security Line Shortcut Most Passengers Ignore (and Why It Works)

Travel Hacks for Flyers Who Refuse to Wait in Line (or Pay $199 for CLEAR)

As a commercial airline pilot who's watched thousands of passengers stress through security checkpoints, I'm sharing the insider knowledge that crew members and aviation industry professionals use to breeze through airports—even when we're traveling as passengers. Full transparency: I have no affiliation with CLEAR or any security company this is purely independent pilot insight.

While millions of passengers endure endless security queues, savvy travelers are quietly booking themselves to the front of the line at major airports across North America. The catch? This game-changing shortcut is completely free, requires no membership fees, and works even if you don't have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR.

The Free "Fast Pass"

RESERVE is a program offered by biometrics company CLEAR that allows any traveler can make a free reservation at the security checkpoint for select airports. Unlike paid expedited services, this system costs nothing and is available to everyone.

There are dedicated lanes for appointment holders at airports where the service is offered, which means the lines typically move faster and the experience is more predictable. Think of it as making a dinner reservation, but for airport security.

How the System Actually Works

The process is surprisingly simple:

1. Visit the RESERVE website (or your specific airport's reservation page)

2. Enter your flight details and party size (up to 10 people)

3. Select your preferred security screening time

4. Receive a QR confirmation code via email completely free

5. Show up during your time slot and use the dedicated fast lane

Booking windows vary by location, but reservations typically open up three days before departure and a limited number of slots will be available. The key is booking as soon as the window opens for your travel date.

Where You Can Use This Secret Weapon?