What is Clear, and how does it work?
As an expedited security program, Clear allows you to bypass the two-step Transportation Security Administration security process at domestic airports by completing the identity verification step via biometric authentication (that is, by using your personal biological traits such as fingerprints) in a separate lane solely dedicated to Clear users.
After successfully verifying your identity with either a fingerprint or an iris scan at a Clear kiosk, a Clear representative will take you to the TSA security screening line — either the TSA PreCheck line or the standard TSA line.
As of December, travelers can use Clear at 54 airports nationally, as well as at stadiums and other large venues.
Who can sign up for Clear?
To sign up for Clear, you must meet three qualifications:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have one of the following forms of photo identification: U.S. driver’s license, U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, U.S.-issued permanent resident card, state-issued ID or U.S. military ID
Travelers under 18, such as family members, may use the Clear line for free if accompanied by a Clear member.
Once you are a Clear member, you can log in to your account on Clear’s website and add up to three family members for $99 each per year.
How to sign up for Clear
To sign up for Clear, you can either start the enrollment process online and finish at a Clear location, or you can complete the entire process at a Clear location. Either way, users must complete the final enrollment steps in person at a Clear location.
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The sign-up and enrollment process should only take a few minutes. In person, you’ll be asked to verify your identity, attach your biometrics and show a valid photo ID.
Additionally, you’ll be asked to enter your name, email address and payment information for the $189 enrollment fee.
Ways to save on Clear
New users can receive a free two-month trial of Clear by using this link. Clear members can also refer friends for two free months.
Additionally, a few credit cards offer cardholders a free Clear membership as a perk. The following cards will reimburse you for up to $189 per year in Clear Plus membership costs:
The information for the American Express Green and Centurion cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Though not free, select United Airlines and Delta Air Lines credit card cardholders, along with their frequent flyers and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members, can get Clear at a discounted rate.
Delta Diamond Medallion members and United Premier 1K members can get Clear for free.
Delta Platinum Medallion, Gold Medallion and Silver Medallion members, plus United Premier Platinum, Premier Gold and Premier Silver members, can pay a reduced rate of $149.
All other Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members get a discounted membership of $179.
Those with the following Delta and United cobranded credit cards (U.S. only) can also use their cards to sign up for Clear at $149:
Bottom line
Clear can save you time and lots of frustration when passing through security — not only at airports but at other large venues throughout the U.S.
The sign-up process is easy and worth the benefits, especially when using the right credit card can get it for you for free.
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