Clear airport security is an expedited security program that aims to streamline the TSA screening process for frequent travelers. Using biometrics like fingerprint and iris scans, Clear automates identity verification and allows passengers to bypass the traditional ID check at security checkpoints.
Clear Airport Security
One of the main benefits of Clear airport security is the time saved. With this program, travelers can skip the long lines and proceed directly to the security screening area, potentially saving valuable time at the airport. Furthermore, Clear members are also eligible for random ID checks introduced by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration, further enhancing security measures.
Expedited Security Program
However, Clear does come with a cost. The annual membership fee for Clear is $189, which may only be appealing to some travelers. It is also important to note that Clear is only available at some airports, limiting its usefulness for those who frequently visit non-participating airports.
Regarding discounts, Clear offers potential benefits to loyalty program members, such as Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus. These members may be eligible for discounted or even free Clear membership as part of their loyalty rewards.
How Does Clear Work
Clear is an expedited security screening program that aims to streamline the airport experience for travelers. The process begins with identity verification, where members provide their personal information and biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans.
Once enrolled in Clear, members can bypass the regular security line and proceed directly to a designated Clear lane. At this point, their biometric information is quickly verified, granting them access to the security screening area. This efficient process eliminates waiting in long lines, saving valuable time at the airport.
Moreover, Clear members may also have the option to be enrolled in TSA PreCheck, a trusted traveler program offered by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration. This additional benefit allows Clear users to enjoy expedited screening, where they can keep their shoes, light jackets, belts on, and their laptops and liquids in their bags.
In summary, Clear utilizes advanced biometric authentication to verify members’ identities and grant them expedited access to the security screening area. With the option to enroll in TSA PreCheck, Clear members can experience an even smoother and faster airport journey, ensuring a stress-free travel experience.
Random ID Checks
The TSA recently added the addition of Random ID Checks due to several security concerns. Clear members may be asked to present their identification for verification during these checks. While these ID checks are random, they offer an extra layer of security to bolster the overall effectiveness of the Clear airport security system.
While these random ID checks may slightly slow down the process for some Clear members, they ultimately contribute to a safer and more secure airport environment. The inclusion of such checks ensures that everyone who uses the Clear line is subject to thorough scrutiny, reducing the likelihood of security breaches.
Where Clear works
Clear, the trusted airport security program, is currently available at 53 airports nationwide, offering travelers a hassle-free experience through security checkpoints. These airports include notable international hubs like Newark Liberty International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
At this time, Clear is available at 53 airports:
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM)
- Boise Airport (BOI)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Bradley International Airport (BDL)
- Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Dallas Love Field (DAL)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
- Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
- Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
- Long Beach Airport (LGB)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
- Oakland International Airport (OAK)
- Oklahoma City’s Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
- Ontario International Airport (ONT)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO).
- Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
- Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
- Washington’s Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- Westchester County Airport (HPN)
In addition to airports, Clear is also available at select stadiums and arenas across the United States. Stadiums where Clear operates include Yankee Stadium, Coors Field, Allegiant Stadium, BMO Stadium, and Madison Square Garden. By extending its services beyond airports, Clear aims to enhance security and streamline entry for fans attending major sporting events.
Here is a list of the select entrances Clear is available to be used to the following stadiums and arena events:
- Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium — Austin
- State Farm Arena — Atlanta
- Coors Field — Denver
- Ball Arena — Denver
- Allegiant Stadium — Las Vegas
- T-Mobile Arena — Las Vegas
- SoFi Stadium — Los Angeles
- BMO Stadium — Los Angeles
- Kaseya Center — Miami
- Madison Square Garden — New York City
- Yankee Stadium — New York City
- Barclays Center— New York City
- Chase Center — San Francisco
- Oracle Park — San Francisco
- PayPal Park — San Jose, California
- SAP Center at San Jose — San Jose, California
- Lumen Field — Seattle
- Capital One Arena — Washington, D.C.
- Nationals Park — Washington, D.C.
Clear’s widespread availability and user-friendly process make it the preferred choice for frequent travelers and sports enthusiasts. Whether catching a flight or heading to a thrilling game, Clear ensures a seamless journey and enhanced security. So, next time you’re planning your trip, check if Clear is available for a stress-free and efficient experience through the airport or stadium of your choice.
Comparing Clear to TSA PreCheck
Clear and TSA PreCheck are two popular programs that offer expedited security screening to travelers, but they have some key differences and similarities.
The main difference is in the ID checking process. With Clear, you can skip the security line completely by verifying your ID and boarding pass through biometric technology. This means you can breeze through security without even having to show physical identification except during the new random checks. On the other hand, with TSA Precheck, you still need to present your physical ID, but you can enjoy a shorter security line and relaxed screening requirements.
Both Clear and TSA PreCheck memberships offer expedited security screening, resulting in shorter wait times and a smoother travel experience. However, it’s important to note that Clear and TSA PreCheck are complementary programs. While Clear allows you to skip the security line completely, it does not exempt you from the standard security screening by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA PreCheck, on the other hand, provides a faster and more convenient security screening process, but you still have to go through a security line.
For frequent travelers, having both Clear and TSA PreCheck memberships can be highly beneficial. With Clear, you can bypass the long ID checking line process, while with TSA PreCheck, you can enjoy a shorter security line. This combination can significantly reduce the time and hassle associated with airport security, allowing you to reach your destination more efficiently.
What’s the difference between Clear and Clear Sports?
Clear and Clear Sports offer expedited entry options, but they have distinct differences and cater to different settings. Clear is a trusted way to bypass the security lines at airports. By using biometric technology, Clear allows you to verify your ID and boarding pass seamlessly, skipping the need to physically present your identification. With Clear, you can breeze through security without any hassle.
On the other hand, Clear Sports is specifically designed for sports stadiums. It is a free membership offered at select stadiums, enabling fans to enjoy expedited entry into games. With Clear Sports, you can skip the regular entrance lines and access a dedicated Clear lane, making your stadium experience more efficient and enjoyable.
Enrolling in Clear Sports is a simple process. Download the Clear app, which serves as the Clear and Clear Sports memberships platform. Sign up for Clear Sports through the app and complete the necessary information. Once enrolled, when you visit a participating stadium, head to the Clear lane and verify your identity using biometric technology. This allows you to bypass the usual entry process and get to your seats faster.
How you can enroll in Clear
Enrolling in Clear is a straightforward process that allows travelers to bypass long security lines and enjoy a hassle-free airport experience. There are two options for enrollment: online or in-person at a Clear airport location.
To sign up online, visit the Clear website and follow the instructions to create an account. You must provide personal information, such as your name, email address, and contact details. Once your account is created, you can proceed with the enrollment process.
For in-person enrollment, you can visit a Clear airport location. You don’t need to make an appointment, but it is best to allocate extra time to complete the enrollment process at the airport. During in-person enrollment, you must validate your identity by presenting a valid ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans, will be collected to ensure a secure identity verification process.
Whichever method you choose, completing the enrollment process will grant you access to Clear lanes, allowing you to skip the regular security lines and proceed directly to the screening checkpoint. This saves you valuable time and enables a smoother start to your journey.
In conclusion, enrolling in Clear can be done online or in person at a Clear airport location. Travelers can enjoy expedited security screening and a more efficient airport experience by signing up.
How you can save on Clear
Clear can be a valuable tool if you’re a frequent traveler looking to save time and streamline your airport experience. By bypassing the regular security lines and heading straight to the screening checkpoint, you can enjoy a hassle-free start to your journey. While the convenience of Clear comes with a cost, there are ways to save on your membership.
First, please take advantage of any promotions or discounts offered by Clear. Watch for exclusive offers from credit card companies or loyalty programs that may provide statement credits or discounted membership rates. Clear often offers family plans, allowing you to add family members at a reduced fee.
Lastly, if you already have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you may be eligible for discounted or even free Clear membership. By exploring these money-saving options, you can make the most of Clear and enhance your travel experience.
Delta SkyMiles discounts
Delta SkyMiles members can enjoy exclusive discounts when signing up for a Clear membership. Diamond Medallion and 360º members are eligible for complimentary Clear membership, granting them expedited access through airport security checkpoints. This benefit is available to these elite Delta SkyMiles members at no additional cost.
For Platinum, Gold, and Silver Medallion members, Clear membership is available at a discounted rate of $149 per year. With Clear, these members can easily breeze through security checkpoints and save valuable time at the airport.
Even general SkyMiles members can take advantage of a discounted Clear membership. For just $179 per year, SkyMiles members can enjoy the convenience and speed of Clear, ensuring seamless travel experiences.
Delta SkyMiles members can access these discounted rates by linking their SkyMiles account to their Clear account. By taking advantage of these United MileagePlus discounts, Delta SkyMiles members can enhance their airport journey and avoid long security lines, reducing stress and making their trips more enjoyable.
United MileagePlus discounts
United MileagePlus members can take advantage of exclusive discounts on Clear membership, making their travel experience even smoother. United Global Services and Premier 1K members enjoy complimentary Clear membership, providing hassle-free access to expedited security checkpoints.
For Platinum, Gold, and Silver members, Clear offers a discounted annual membership rate of just $149. This affordable option allows these members to breeze through security lines and save valuable time at the airport.
Even general MileagePlus members can benefit from a discounted Clear membership. For just $179 per year, these members can enjoy the convenience and speed of Clear, ensuring seamless travel experiences.
What credit cards cover Clear fees as a benefit?
In addition to offering discounted membership rates for frequent travelers, Clear also partners with various credit cards to provide added convenience and savings. One such benefit is the coverage of Clear membership fees. Several credit cards offer an annual statement credit that can be used towards a Clear Plus membership.
Cardholders of The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, The American Express Green Card, and The American Express Centurion Black Card can enjoy an annual statement credit of $189 for Clear Plus membership. This credit effectively covers the cost of Clear’s yearly membership fee, allowing cardholders to breeze through security lines and save valuable time at the airport.
Delta SkyMiles American Express and United co-branded cardholders are also eligible for discounted Clear memberships. By linking their credit card accounts to their Clear accounts, these cardholders can take advantage of the reduced rates and enhance their airport journey.
With these credit cards covering Clear fees as a benefit, frequent travelers can enjoy seamless travel experiences and avoid long security lines, further enhancing the value of their membership.
Final Thoughts
No one likes waiting in the long TSA lines at the airport, so with a Clear membership, you can help expedite your time going through the dreaded airport TSA line.
Is a Clear membership for everyone? No. This is an expensive option for most, but the cost can be covered or significantly reduced by using certain credit cards and reaching different frequent flyer levels.
Clear Airport Security FAQs
What is the difference between TSA PreCheck and Clear?
TSA PreCheck and Clear offer similar services but are two distinct programs. TSA PreCheck is a government security program that allows travelers to receive expedited screening at participating airports. This program requires applicants to apply online and pass a background check to be eligible for the benefit. Once approved, travelers can enjoy shorter security lines and more convenient travel experiences.
On the other hand, Clear is a private company offering expedited security screening services. This program requires travelers to enroll and verify their identity using biometric technology. Once verified, travelers can bypass security lines and enjoy the convenience of Clear’s express lanes.
What is the downside to using clear?
One potential downside to using Clear is the cost. Although discounts are available for certain frequent travelers, annual membership can be pricey for many people. Additionally, Clear does not cover all airports in the United States, so travelers may have limited access to these services depending on where they are flying from. Furthermore, the biometric data collected by Clear could potentially be used for other purposes outside of
Does clear get you through airport security faster?
Yes, Clear can help travelers get through airport security quickly. By using biometric verification and allowing members to bypass long lines, Clear helps travelers save time and make their travel experience more convenient. Additionally, Clear’s express lanes are often available at airports with large numbers of passengers, helping to reduce wait times for all travelers.
Is clear worth it for international travel?
Clear can be a great asset for international travelers. By expediting the security process, Clear can help reduce wait times and make the travel experience more efficient.
Is clear at airports worth it?
Clear is a great option for frequent travelers looking to make their airport experiences more convenient and comfortable. For those who frequently fly, Clear can save them time and the hassle of getting through security lines.
Is clear better than TSA PreCheck?
The debate between Clear and TSA PreCheck can be difficult to settle. While both offer similar services, several differences make them distinct. TSA PreCheck is a government security program; applicants must pass a background check to be eligible for the benefit. Additionally, travelers don’t need to pay any fees or enroll for the program. On the other hand, Clear is a private company requiring travelers to enroll and verify their identity using biometric technology. With its express lanes, discounted rates for select credit card holders, and access to exclusive lounges, Clear offers a more comprehensive travel experience than TSA PreCheck. Ultimately, the best choice depends on a traveler’s needs and preferences.
Can you use clear instead of TSA PreCheck?
In short, you don’t need TSA PreCheck if you have Clear. Just Clear alone only exempts you from the first part of the TSA security screening process: checking your boarding pass and ID.
