Ruth Haines
CLEAR is an airport security technology and membership program that allows travelers to speed up their security checks at the airport. It is a paid service that costs $189 to $199 annually and is available at more than 50 locations across the US, including major airports such as Atlanta, Boston, Chicago-O'Hare, and San Francisco. CLEAR uses biometrics to verify the identity of its members, allowing them to skip the security line and go directly to the front for screening. It is often used in tandem with TSA PreCheck, a government-offered program that provides expedited identity and physical screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Goal | Reduce wait time at the airport |
| Availability | Over 50 locations including more than 40 airports |
| Verification | Biometric security kiosks |
| Identification | Face, iris, eyes, fingerprint |
| Membership | $189 or $199 per year |
| Family membership | $60 or $119 per person per year |
| TSA PreCheck membership | $77.95 for five years |
| TSA PreCheck availability | Over 200 airports |
| TSA PreCheck benefits | Faster bag checks, no need to remove shoes |
| CLEAR benefits | Faster document checks, no need to remove shoes |
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What You'll Learn
CLEAR vs TSA PreCheck
CLEAR and TSA PreCheck are both services that promise to improve your experience at the airport by reducing the time spent in security lines. However, there are some key differences between the two services.
CLEAR is an opt-in service owned by a private company that provides a faster and easier airport security experience. It expedites the identity verification process at the checkpoint. CLEAR members get access to a dedicated lane where they verify their identity using biometric technology. A CLEAR agent then escorts the traveller to the front of the TSA screening lane. CLEAR costs $199 per year and can be bundled with TSA PreCheck at certain airports for the same price, with the TSA PreCheck membership lasting for five years. CLEAR also offers various perks such as discounts on luggage shipments and travel documents.
TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, is a U.S. government program established by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It identifies travellers deemed low-risk by the TSA and allows them to pass through expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide. With TSA PreCheck, travellers do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets. TSA PreCheck costs $77.95 for five years when applying through CLEAR. It is available to U.S. citizens and certain foreign citizens who undergo a background check.
While both services aim to improve the airport experience, they are not identical. CLEAR allows travellers to skip the security line completely, whereas TSA PreCheck shortens the wait by allowing travellers to go through a shorter line. CLEAR uses biometric technology for identity verification, while TSA PreCheck relies on manual checks of photo identification. Additionally, TSA PreCheck is more widely available, as CLEAR is not offered at every airport.
Some travellers choose to enrol in both services to maximise their chances of a faster and smoother airport experience. This combination can now be purchased as a bundle at select airports. However, it is important to note that TSA PreCheck is generally considered more exclusive and harder to obtain due to its rigorous approval process.
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Biometric security
At airports, biometric security is used for identity verification during check-in, security screening, and boarding. For example, passengers can register their biometric information through an airline app or at the airport, which is then securely stored for future verification. When a passenger arrives at the airport, their identity can be verified through a simple process such as a selfie or fingerprint scan, eliminating the need for manual ID checks.
In addition to enhancing security, biometric technology improves operational efficiency at airports. It reduces unnecessary contact between staff and passengers, streamlines the boarding process, and helps prevent baggage fraud. For example, biometric facial recognition can be used at baggage drops to ensure that luggage is securely assigned to the correct passenger, reducing the risk of fraudulent claims.
While biometric security offers many benefits, it is important to note that it is typically offered as an optional service at airports. Passengers who prefer not to participate in biometric screening can opt for standard ID verification processes. Additionally, the use of biometric data raises concerns about privacy and data protection, which need to be carefully addressed by airport authorities and government agencies.
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Cost and availability
CLEAR+ is a paid membership service that offers expedited security checks at select airports. The standard price for an annual CLEAR+ membership is $199. Members can add up to three family members for an additional $60 per person, while children under 18 can use a CLEAR lane for free. Military service members and government employees are eligible for CLEAR+ at a discounted rate.
CLEAR+ is currently only available at a select number of airports in the US. The company is looking to expand to new airports across the globe, but CLEAR+ is not currently available at international locations. As of 2020, CLEAR was available at over 67 locations, including more than 50 airports. Some of these airports include Austin–Bergstrom International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, and Boise Airport.
CLEAR+ is a private company, whereas TSA PreCheck is a government program. The two services are complementary, and many frequent travellers find it best to have memberships to both. TSA PreCheck costs $77.95 for five years when applying through CLEAR, while CLEAR+ costs $199 per year. However, members can apply for both services as a bundle for $199, with CLEAR membership lasting one year and PreCheck lasting five years.
Several credit cards, such as the Platinum Card from American Express, offer statement credits of up to $199 per year for purchasing CLEAR access. Additionally, some airlines like Delta and United offer special discounts on CLEAR membership for their frequent flyers.
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Membership benefits
CLEAR is an expedited security initiative that helps travelers enjoy a more convenient journey through the airport. It replaces your ID with your biometrics, such as your eyes, face, and fingerprints, allowing you to bypass the ID check and get through security seamlessly.
Faster Airport Security
CLEAR members can speed through airport security using designated CLEAR+ lanes at TSA checkpoints. The biometric scanning technology allows travelers to skip long lines and tedious identification procedures, significantly reducing their wait time.
Stress-Free Travel Experience
CLEAR takes care of the stress associated with airport navigation. They provide assistance with luggage and directions, ensuring a smooth and relaxed travel experience.
Exclusive Offers and Discounts
CLEAR members gain access to exclusive offers and discounts, helping them make the most of their travel day, both in the airport and beyond. Additionally, CLEAR unlocks partner benefits worth $500+, including expedited passport services and easier luggage shipment.
Family Plan
CLEAR allows members to add up to three family members or friends to their account for an additional fee. Children under 18 can use the CLEAR lane for free when accompanied by a CLEAR member.
TSA PreCheck® Bundle
CLEAR members can also enroll in TSA PreCheck, a U.S. government program for low-risk travelers. This bundle allows travelers to pass through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, or light jackets, providing an even faster and more efficient experience.
CLEAR offers a convenient and efficient way to navigate the airport, saving time and enhancing the overall travel journey.
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Enrollment process
CLEAR is a service that allows members to speed through airport security and save time and money. CLEAR+ members can use a dedicated lane to skip long security lines and verify their identity in advance, using their face, eyes, or fingerprints.
To enrol in CLEAR, you must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident, aged 18 or older, with a valid government-issued photo ID. The enrollment process can be started online, but must be completed in person at a CLEAR location, such as an airport.
Firstly, you can pre-enrol online by answering some questions to verify your identity and providing payment information. CLEAR offers a two-month free trial, after which you will be charged the regular $199 annual fee. Alternatively, you can bundle your enrollment with TSA PreCheck® for a special price of $199 for the first year, which includes 5 years of TSA PreCheck® for $77.95 and 1 year of CLEAR+ for as low as $121.05.
Once you have pre-enrolled online, you can complete your enrollment at an airport the next time you fly. A CLEAR Ambassador will validate your ID and take your biometrics, including fingerprints. After enrollment, you can use CLEAR+ immediately as an airport quick pass, with no appointments needed.
CLEAR+ members can add up to 3 family members or friends to their membership for $119 per person, while children under 18 can join the security screening for free. Military service members and government employees are also eligible for CLEAR+ at a discounted rate.
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Frequently asked questions
CLEAR is an expedited airport security service that uses biometrics to verify your identity, removing the need for a TSA officer to manually check your passport or photo ID.
Once you've activated your membership, you can go to any airport that supports CLEAR and scan your boarding pass at a kiosk. After your biometrics are verified, you'll be taken to the front of the security line.
CLEAR+ membership costs \$199 per year for individuals. A family plan is available for \$199 a year plus \$119 per person, and children under 18 can join for free.
CLEAR can significantly reduce your wait time at the airport. However, it is currently limited to just over 40 airports, and after using CLEAR, you'll still have to go through the regular security screening process.
