Guide to Using CLEAR at Airports
Find out what CLEAR is, how it works, what benefits you can gain from it, how to use it at the airport and other FAQs
What is CLEAR?
CLEAR is a security initiative which allows the airport security process to be fast tracked. CLEAR is unique as it uses biometrics of fingerprint and eye-scans to fasten up the process of identity validation.
Passengers with a CLEAR membership can use dedicated lanes and specially trained staff to bypass security in 5 minutes or under at U.S. airports with the initiative.
What are the benefits of CLEAR?
Speed
As the purpose of CLEAR is to speed up the security process for its members, there’s no doubt when saying the main benefit of CLEAR is speed in the airport. As mentioned, passengers who have a membership with CLEAR will not have to wait in line with the crowds and instead can proceed to the fast-track lane for CLEAR passengers only. Here, they will have to confirm their identity by scanning their irises and fingerprints and then proceed with the other passengers to physical screening checks, such as the metal detector.
Safety
CLEAR is certified by the safety act, meaning the biometrics used is safe and correctly verifies people’s identities. CLEAR also state that passenger security their number 1 priority, meaning there is nothing lacking in terms of your personal security. In addition, the biometrics of irises and fingerprints are more accurate in identifying you, as they are personal and individual to you, especially compared to traditional forms of ID.
Spend more time on things you like
With the extra time that you’ve saved being stuck in non-moving queues, think about what you could better spend your time on. Whether that's more time to browse the airport shops, enjoy a special airport lounge, or perhaps enjoying a delicious meal before your fight, anything is better than waiting for an identity check.
Stress
With the peace of mind that you will fast track the stressful queuing process also comes the reduction of stress. Reducing stress is important when flying, as it can lead to some additional health problems. Find out what else you can do to reduce stress, and retain good wellness during your flight here.
Discounts
CLEAR also provide its members discounts through its partnership network. Visit the CLEAR website to see what discounts you can get!
Where can I use CLEAR?
Atlanta
ATL
Austin
AUS
Baltimore
BWI
Cleveland
CLE
Dallas
DAL
Dallas
DFW
Denver
DEN
Detroit
DTW
Fort Lauderdale
FLL
Houston
HOU
Houston
IAH
Las Vegas
LAS
Los Angeles
LAX
Miami
MIA
Minneapolis
MSP
New Orleans
MSY
New York
HPN
New York
LGA
New York
JFK
Orlando
MCO
Phoenix
PHX
Salt Lake City
SLC
San Antonio
SAT
San Francisco
SFO
San Jose
SJC
Seattle
SEA
Washington D.C.
DCA
Washington D.C.
IAD
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CLEAR FAQs
How do I get CLEAR membership?
Before you can use CLEAR at the airport, you must first enroll to be a member. Enrollment only takes 5 minutes, and can be completed either online or at the airport.
First, you will need to visit the CLEAR website and register your details. Alternatively, you can visit a CLEAR location and register there.
After initial registration, you will need to complete the enrollment process at a CLEAR location. This will involve questions to verify your identity, providing a form of photo ID, providing payment and creating your first scans of your eyes and fingerprint.
Who can qualify for CLEAR?
CLEAR membership is open to US Citizens who are 18 years or older. You must also have a form of approved, valid and unexpired US photo identification such as the following:
- US Driver's License
- US Passport
- US Passport Card
- US-issued Permanent Resident Card
- State Issued ID
- US Military ID
Children who are under 18 years of age can still use the CLEAR lane at the airport without registering, free of charge. However this is only when they are accompanied by a family member who has CLEAR membership.
So what is the difference between CLEAR and other security schemes?
Both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck allow passengers to move more swiftly through the airport, and passengers can use both schemes at once. CLEAR focuses on speeding up the identification process, whereas TSA PreCheck speeds up the security personnel and baggage screening.
Global Entry, however, is a scheme that focuses on fast-tracking the immigration and customs process. Included in the price of Global Entry is TSA PreCheck, but passengers can purchase all three schemes.
How much does CLEAR cost?
Membership for CLEAR costs $179 USD a year, which works out $15 USD a month. This membership is valid for any CLEAR location, including the airports, stadiums and anywhere else they may choose to place their product.