Clear And Simple: Austin Bergstrom Airport Security Measures

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is one of the fastest-growing airports in the US, serving over 22 million travellers annually. The airport offers a variety of services to ensure a smooth travel experience. Passengers with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are required to go through Checkpoint 2 West for biometric identity verification, which expedites the security screening process. Those without PreCheck or Clear should use Checkpoints 1 or 2 East.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR screening consolidated to one checkpoint

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has consolidated its TSA PreCheck and CLEAR security screenings from three locations in the terminal to just one checkpoint at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). This change will impact the millions of passengers who fly out of the airport each year.

The new checkpoint, Checkpoint 2-West, will now be dedicated to TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and ADA screenings. Checkpoint 1 and 2-East will no longer offer these services and will be primarily for general screenings. The popularity of TSA PreCheck has grown significantly, with lines at times being just as long, if not longer, than for general security. This was a factor in the decision to consolidate TSA PreCheck and CLEAR screenings into one location.

The goal of this change is to improve passenger efficiency and convenience by providing a one-stop place for travellers. An airport spokesperson stated that giving each checkpoint a specific, clearly defined purpose will not slow down the process for TSA PreCheck passengers. The number of lanes at each checkpoint will remain the same, with 19 lanes in total across the airport.

The airport is undergoing a major expansion project, with Checkpoint 3 closed through 2026 for the West Infill project. An expanded Checkpoint 3 with 6 to 8 new lanes will open to the public in 2026.

CLEAR Plus Membership speeds up gate entry

CLEAR Plus Membership offers faster access to your gate at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The membership includes dedicated lanes at 58 airports across the country, including Austin-Bergstrom, allowing you to skip the regular security lines and save time.

Benefits of CLEAR Plus Membership:

• Faster Gate Entry: Dedicated CLEAR Plus lanes at Austin-Bergstrom and other participating airports mean you can breeze through security and reach your gate faster.
• Convenience: With your biometrics enrolled in the CLEAR system, you can quickly and securely verify your identity, making your travel experience more seamless and convenient.
• Family Inclusion: You can add family members to your CLEAR Plus Membership, so they, too, can enjoy the benefits of expedited security screening.
• Exclusive Pricing: When you bundle CLEAR Plus with TSA PreCheck®, you unlock exclusive pricing for the fastest and most efficient way to get through airport security.
• Mobile Lane Access: The CLEAR Mobile Lane allows you to use CLEAR on the go. Simply access the lane with your QR code in the app—no reservation or purchase required.
• Stadium Entry: In addition to airports, CLEAR Lanes are available at various stadiums and arenas, giving you faster access to events and entertainment.

How to Enroll in CLEAR Plus:

• Enroll Online: Sign up for CLEAR Plus on the CLEAR website or app, providing the necessary personal information and payment details.
• Complete Biometrics: Visit a CLEAR enrollment center, such as the one at Austin-Bergstrom's Checkpoint 1, to complete your biometric enrollment, which includes verifying your identity and capturing your fingerprints and iris image.
• Add Family Members: If desired, add your family members to your CLEAR Plus Membership so they can also enjoy the benefits.
• Download the CLEAR App: Stay connected and access exclusive features with the free CLEAR app, available on the App Store and Google Play.

With CLEAR Plus, you can look forward to a faster and smoother airport experience at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and beyond.

CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck enrolment

CLEAR Plus is a paid membership that allows for quick identity verification at the airport. Members can use their face, eyes, or fingers to verify their identity at a CLEAR Pod and get to the front of the security line. CLEAR Plus is available at 58 airports nationwide. Family members under 18 can join the member in the CLEAR Lane for free, and up to three adults can be added to the member's account.

TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that identifies travellers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Members can pass through expedited security screenings at over 200 airports nationwide without removing their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets.

CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck can be bundled together for a special price. The bundle includes 5 years of TSA PreCheck for $77.95 and 1 year of CLEAR Plus for as low as $121.05, for a total of $199. This saves up to $77.95 on the first year of CLEAR Plus membership.

To enrol in CLEAR Plus, you can start the process online and then enrol at an airport near you. A CLEAR Ambassador will verify your identity with your face, eyes, and fingers to complete your enrolment.

To enrol in TSA PreCheck through CLEAR, you can pre-enrol online and then complete your registration at a participating CLEAR location. No appointment is necessary. You must bring the required documentation to meet identity and citizenship requirements.

CLEAR Mobile Lane access with QR code

CLEAR Mobile Lanes offer a dedicated lane at airport security, providing a more predictable way through for travellers. To access the lane, simply show your QR code.

CLEAR Plus Members can enjoy unlimited access to the CLEAR Mobile Lanes by downloading the CLEAR App and showing their QR code at the entrance. There is no additional cost for this.

Non-CLEAR Plus Members can also access the CLEAR Mobile Lane by purchasing a one-time pass, which will be issued via email. Again, make sure to have your QR code ready to scan when you arrive at the airport.

CLEAR Mobile does not verify your identity, so be sure to have your ID and boarding pass to hand.

Children under 18 can join a CLEAR Plus Member in the CLEAR Mobile Lane for free.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR screening at Checkpoint 2 West

The Barbara Jordan Terminal at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has four security checkpoints, leading to all gates. Checkpoint 2 West is open until the last flight and accommodates all passengers after all other checkpoints close.

Checkpoint 2 West offers screening for passengers with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR. TSA PreCheck enrollment is available at the CLEAR enrollment centre at Checkpoint 1, with no appointment needed.

TSA PreCheck is a service that allows passengers to speed through security without needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. TSA PreCheck lanes are subject to change based on operational needs, and no passenger is guaranteed expedited screening.

CLEAR is a membership service that offers faster access through dedicated lanes at 58 airports nationwide. CLEAR Plus members can add family members to their account and access exclusive pricing when bundling TSA PreCheck with CLEAR Plus.

Passengers without PreCheck or CLEAR should use Checkpoints 1 or 2 East.

Frequently asked questions