Roberta Aguirre
CLEAR is a private subscription service in the United States that offers expedited security screening at select airports. CLEAR Plus is an upgraded membership that allows travellers to skip long security lines by using biometric scanning technology for identity verification. This means that instead of showing a physical ID, members can use their fingerprints, iris, or facial scans to confirm their identity. CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck for the fastest route through airport security.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Technology Used | Biometric scanning |
| Verification Methods | Fingerprint, iris, face image scans |
| Cost | $199 a year for an individual membership |
| Additional Cost | $119 per person for up to three additional family members or friends |
| Time Saved | 4 hours per year on average |
| Availability | At participating airports with CLEAR lanes at TSA security checkpoints |
| Age Limit | 18 years or older |
| Required Documents | U.S. driver's license, U.S. passport book, or state-issued ID |
| Sign-Up Process | Online or at a CLEAR kiosk at the airport |
| Verification Process | Biometrics (fingerprint, eye scan, and photo) are collected and stored in the system |
| Additional Benefits | Exclusive offers, dedicated security lane, fast check-in, and access to CLEAR Mobile Lanes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
CLEAR Plus membership
CLEAR Plus is a paid membership service that allows members to skip security lines at select airports and stadiums. It uses biometrics, such as fingerprints, iris, or face image scans, to confirm the identity of members, allowing them to proceed directly to security metal detectors and bag scanners without waiting. CLEAR Plus is particularly useful for frequent travellers as it can save a lot of time at the airport.
To sign up for CLEAR Plus, individuals must be 18 years or older and have a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a U.S. driver's license, U.S. passport, or state-issued ID. The sign-up process can be initiated online, but it must be completed at a CLEAR location, such as an airport. During the enrolment process, a CLEAR Ambassador will validate the member's ID, capture their biometrics, and verify their identity before processing the payment.
CLEAR Plus members can enjoy additional benefits, such as unlimited access to the CLEAR Mobile Lanes by downloading the CLEAR App and showing their QR code at the entrance. This provides a more predictable and streamlined experience through airport security. CLEAR Plus can also be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck for an even faster journey to the gate. On average, CLEAR Plus members save up to 4 hours per year, making it a valuable investment for frequent travellers seeking convenience and efficiency during their airport experiences.
Runway Pothole Repairs: Quick, Efficient, and Safe Methods
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Biometric scanning technology
To enrol in Clear, users must be 18 years or older and have a valid and unamended photo identification, such as a US driver's license, a US passport book, or a state-issued ID. The enrolment process involves taking a user's biometrics, including a fingerprint, an eye scan, and a photo of their face to create a profile.
Clear's biometric technology has been provided by defence contracting giant Lockheed Martin, which also provides biometric capabilities to the US Department of Defense and the FBI. While Clear offers a more convenient and faster way to get through security, some privacy experts worry about the increasing use of facial recognition technology by corporations and the government. They argue that other biometric methods, such as fingerprint or iris scans, are less risky for user privacy.
Clear offers a standard free service and an upgraded membership called Clear Plus. The free service allows users to book a spot in the security line for up to 10 people, while Clear Plus allows members to skip the security line entirely and go straight to the metal detectors and bag scanners. Clear Plus costs $199 per year for an individual membership and can be added to up to three additional family members or friends for $119 more per person per year.
Napping in Airports: Is it Worth it?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
CLEAR Mobile Lanes
Firstly, enrolment in CLEAR is required. This process is straightforward and can be initiated online. However, to complete the enrolment, individuals must be 18 years or older and present valid photo identification, such as a US driver's license, US passport, or state-issued ID. Biometric data, including fingerprints, eye scans, and facial recognition, will be captured to create a secure profile.
Once enrolled, CLEAR Plus Members can take advantage of the CLEAR Mobile Lanes by downloading the CLEAR App. This app-based feature enhances the airport security process. Members simply need to present the QR code from the app at the CLEAR Mobile Lane entrance, providing them with on-demand access to expedited security screening. This service is available at no additional cost to CLEAR Plus Members, offering them unlimited access.
Non-CLEAR Plus Members can also utilize the CLEAR Mobile Lanes by purchasing a day pass, which is valid for 24 hours. This pass is obtained through a one-time purchase, issued via email, and allows access to the dedicated lane at airport security. The QR code received upon purchase must be scanned at the CLEAR Mobile Lane entrance, providing a more predictable and faster security experience.
By leveraging technology and streamlining security procedures, CLEAR Mobile Lanes offer a seamless and efficient airport experience, reducing wait times and enhancing overall traveller satisfaction.
Exploring Will Rogers Airport: Oklahoma City's Aviation Hub
You may want to see also
Explore related products
TSA PreCheck
To enrol in TSA PreCheck, you can follow these steps:
- Start the application online or walk into any enrolment location.
- Select an enrolment provider based on cost, locations, and additional benefits.
- Complete your application at an enrolment centre.
- Submit your TSA PreCheck application online or in person.
It's important to note that you don't need to enrol in TSA PreCheck if you already have Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or an active TWIC or Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with an HME. Additionally, TSA PreCheck members are not required to provide their Known Traveller Number (KTN) for renewal or update of an existing airline reservation.
Kauai's Airport: An Essential Travel Gateway to the Island
You may want to see also
Explore related products
CLEAR Plus vs. TSA PreCheck
CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck are two different programs that can be used to speed up the airport security process. They can be used together or separately, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
CLEAR Plus is a paid membership program that costs $199 per year for individuals and $199 a year for families, plus $119 per additional person. It is available at around 50-58 airports and select sports stadiums and entertainment venues throughout the US. CLEAR Plus allows members to quickly verify their identities at biometric security kiosks. Members can use a CLEAR lane to speed up the first half of the airport security process, where they will step up to a CLEAR pod to verify their identity using their eyes, fingerprint, or face. A CLEAR Ambassador then escorts the member to the front of the TSA screening lane. CLEAR Plus members also enjoy exclusive partner offers through CLEAR Perks, such as personalized curb-to-gate service and discounts on luggage shipments.
TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It is available at over 200 domestic airports and more than 90 airlines. The cost of membership is $77.95 for five years when applying through CLEAR, $78 when applying through IDEMIA, or $85 when applying through Telos. TSA PreCheck expedites both the identity and physical screening processes, allowing travelers to pass through expedited security screening without removing their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets. Children 17 and under can join an adult for free in the TSA PreCheck lane when booked on the same reservation.
When deciding between CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck, it is important to consider the cost, availability, and benefits of each program. CLEAR Plus is more expensive and available at fewer airports, but it offers faster identity verification and can be used at non-airport venues. TSA PreCheck is more widely available at airports, less expensive, and allows travelers to keep their shoes on and leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags. Many people find that having memberships to both programs provides the quickest and most efficient route through the airport.
In conclusion, CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck both offer faster and more convenient airport security experiences. CLEAR Plus may be a better option for those who value time savings and are willing to pay a higher fee, while TSA PreCheck is a more affordable option that still offers expedited screening. Combining both programs can further enhance the airport experience, providing the fastest route through security.
Domestic Air Travel: Exploring America's Vast Airport Network
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
CLEAR is a private subscription service in the United States that operates dedicated lanes for travellers at security checkpoints in several airports. CLEAR uses biometric scanning technology to let travellers skip standard airport security and identification procedures.
Signing up for a complimentary CLEAR membership takes five minutes and can be done online. Once the online enrollment process is complete, you can visit a CLEAR location, like the airport, to complete your registration.
CLEAR Plus, the paid version of CLEAR, costs USD$199 a year for an individual. A family membership is also $199 per year, but you can add up to three adult family members or friends for $119 per person.
At participating airports, look for the CLEAR lanes at TSA security checkpoints. Once you’re at the CLEAR Pod, you’ll scan your boarding pass, verify your identity with your face, eyes, or fingers, and then an Ambassador will escort you to standard physical screening.
