Efficient Airports: Cities With The Clearest Security

CLEAR is an airport security service that allows travelers to speed through security lines in minutes. It utilizes biometric scanning technology to identify travelers in seconds, allowing them to skip the tedious identification procedures and long lines at the airport. CLEAR is currently available across 91 locations in the US, including 74 airports and 17 arenas and stadiums. While it is a paid service at airports, it is free to use anywhere else. CLEAR Plus is an upgraded membership that allows travelers to bypass the usual ID check at airport security and access dedicated lanes. It is important to note that CLEAR is only available to US citizens and legal permanent residents aged 18 years and older with a valid photo ID.

Clear Plus membership

CLEAR Plus is a paid membership service that allows members to speed through airport security at designated CLEAR lanes at TSA checkpoints. CLEAR Plus members can save an average of 4 hours per year. The membership costs $199 annually and can be used to add up to 3 family members or friends to your account for $119 each. Children under 18 can join for free.

CLEAR Plus uses biometrics to replace your ID for faster entry at airports. Biometrics are unique biological characteristics that can be used to identify you, including your eyes, fingers, and face. CLEAR Plus members can skip the usual ID check at airport security and go straight to the security metal detectors and bag scanners.

CLEAR Plus is currently only available to US citizens and legal permanent residents over 18 years old with a valid government-issued photo ID. It is available at select airports, with plans to expand to new terminals and airports nationwide.

CLEAR Plus members also have access to exclusive travel perks, such as expedited passport services and easier luggage shipment. Members can also take advantage of CLEAR Scout, which helps recover forgotten items at the airport, and CLEAR Concierge, a personal guide from curb-to-gate at select airports.

TSA PreCheck

The benefits of TSA PreCheck include expedited screening, where travellers are not required to remove their shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, or light jackets. This can significantly speed up the security process and make it more convenient for travellers.

To enrol in TSA PreCheck, individuals can start their application online or complete it in person at an enrolment centre. The fastest way to enrol is to begin the application process online. There is no need to make an appointment, and select locations are open 7 days a week with extended hours. The cost of enrolment varies by provider. Once enrolled, travellers will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) which they can use when booking reservations or adding to their frequent flyer profile.

It is important to note that TSA PreCheck is not a replacement for proper planning and packing. The TSA provides essential tips and guidance on what travellers can pack in their carry-on and checked baggage to ensure a smooth experience at security checkpoints. Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and make travel easier. Additionally, individuals should be aware of the rules regarding liquids, aerosols, and gels, as well as any restrictions on items such as firearms and ammunition.

Biometric scanning technology

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is evaluating the use of biometric technologies to enhance security effectiveness, operational efficiency, and the passenger experience while protecting privacy and civil liberties. TSA's exploration of biometric technologies is scientifically driven and capitalizes on significant advances in biometric accuracy, speed, and the ability to automate processes to help move passengers through screening more quickly. TSA is testing 1:1 (one-to-one) facial matching capabilities by integrating a camera that will take a picture of a passenger and compare the photo to the image on their photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license.

Clear Plus vs. other security services

CLEAR is a biometrics company that uses scans of your irises, fingerprints, and face to verify your identity. This allows members to skip the usual ID check at airport security and go straight to the security metal detectors and bag scanners. CLEAR is free to sign up for and use, but you must pay for the upgraded CLEAR Plus membership to bypass the usual ID check at airport security.

CLEAR Plus members will find dedicated lanes where a CLEAR Ambassador will help you scan either your fingerprint, eye, or face and your boarding pass. Military service members and government employees are eligible for CLEAR Plus at a discounted rate. CLEAR Plus members can also enjoy exclusive travel perks, such as expedited passport services and easier luggage shipment.

CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, a U.S. government program that identifies travelers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved, travelers can pass through expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide without needing to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets.

There are also credit cards that offer an annual statement credit to cover the Clear Plus sign-up fee, including the American Express Consumer Green Card and the American Express Consumers, Corporate, and Small Business Platinum Cards. Co-branded credit cards with Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines also offer discounted membership rates for Clear Plus.

While CLEAR Plus speeds up the security process, it does not replace the need for physical security checks for bags at stadiums and arenas.

Clear Plus pricing

CLEAR Plus is an annual membership that offers expedited entry at airport security in select airports. It uses biometrics, such as your eyes, face, or fingers, to verify your identity and get you through security without the need for an ID check. This service is available at over 55 airports and typically costs $199 per year. However, the price may vary depending on certain factors and discounts may be available.

CLEAR Plus is particularly beneficial for frequent travellers as it provides a faster route to the gate. It can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, which costs $77.95 for five years and allows you to keep your shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, and light jackets on during security checks. When bundled, the first year of CLEAR Plus is discounted by up to $77.95, resulting in a combined total of $199 for the first year.

CLEAR Plus also offers family plans, allowing you to add up to three family members or friends to your account for $119 each per year. Children under 18 can join an adult member in the CLEAR Plus lane for free. Additionally, military service members and government employees are eligible for discounted rates.

There are various ways to obtain discounted rates for CLEAR Plus. Certain credit cards, such as Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus, offer annual discounts for their members. For instance, Delta Silver, Gold, or Platinum elites, as well as Delta AmEx cardholders, receive a $40 discount, while Delta Diamond or 360 elites get CLEAR Plus for free. Similar discounts are offered to United Premier Silver, Gold, and Platinum elite members, with Premier 1K and Global Services members receiving complimentary CLEAR Plus memberships.

Frequently asked questions