If you’re a frequent traveller, you’re likely always looking for ways to save time and reduce headaches while at the airport. One of the most common frustrations is airport security. There’s long lines, and other passengers never seem to know what to do. It’s always such a hassle that there isn’t anything you wouldn’t do to bypass the system, especially when you’re running late for your flight.
If that sounds familiar, you may want to check out CLEAR. It’s different from TSA Precheck or Global Entry and completely changes how you pass through the airport, helping you get to your gate faster. It uses biometric scanning, including your eyes or fingerprints, to check you in instead of typical documentation. It’s a frictionless way to travel, and here’s all you need to know about what CLEAR is, how it works, how you can participate, and overall if it’s worth it.
Key Takeaways
- CLEAR is an airport membership program that allows you to bypass traditional security checks using biometric scanning technology.
- You can apply for CLEAR online and add your biometric information at a CLEAR pod in participating airports. The service costs $189 per year with the option to add family members for $60 each.
- While CLEAR can save you time and hassle at the airport, it’s currently only available at around 40 airports, and its cost may not be worth it if you don’t frequently travel through these airports.
- It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of CLEAR before investing in the service, as it may not be the best fit for everyone’s travel needs.
What Is CLEAR?
CLEAR is an airport membership program that allows you to pass through airport security without showing documentation, like your driver’s license, passport, or other identification. Instead, it scans your biometric information, including your eyes or fingerprints to prove your identity.
It’s a frictionless way to pass through airport security to help you bypass the long lines and get to your gate sooner. Keep in mind that you do still need your boarding pass, which you can either get a paper version or use your phone to scan, so it doesn’t completely make your check-in a seamless experience, but it’s close!
How Do I Apply For CLEAR?
You can start the application process online, though you’ll need to finish it while you’re at the airport. You enter all your personal information and provide any verifying documentation online. The next time you’re at the airport, check in with one of the CLEAR ambassadors at the CLEAR pod, and they will add your eyes or fingerprint to your secure profile. This will now become your identification in participating airports.
The next time you travel, simply visit the CLEAR lanes to bypass traditional security. You’ll scan your biometric marker (eyes or fingerprint) and your boarding pass, and you’ll be good to go! CLEAR is available at more than 40 airports and growing and costs $189 each year. You can add additional family members to your program for an additional $60 per member (up to three).
There are no restrictions on the CLEAR application process outside your name on the application matching your photo ID. You do not have to undergo a background check unlike other frequent traveller programs.
Is CLEAR Worth It?
It depends on how often you travel and where. While CLEAR is growing in popularity, it’s currently only offered in around 40 airports. If you’re not frequenting one of these airports, then you’ll still have to travel through airport security. Many travellers have CLEAR, TSA Precheck, and Global Entry to cover all their bases and make their airport security experience quick and painless.
Ultimately, it’s up to you if you want to invest in CLEAR. It uses cutting-edge technology to make travelling frictionless. You never have to fumble with your wallet again when you’re part of this program, which is nice for those who travel frequently, though make sure to keep your boarding pass on hand.
The Final Say
CLEAR has a lot of potential to revolutionize airport security, but it’s still pretty small and limited in its availability. If you’re a frequent traveller within participating airports, it may be invaluable for your travels; however, if you’re not, make sure to do your research and ensure the investment will be worth it for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is CLEAR?
CLEAR is an airport membership program that allows you to pass through airport security using biometric scanning technology instead of traditional documentation, like your driver’s license or passport.
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How does CLEAR work?
You can apply for CLEAR online and add your biometric information at a CLEAR pod in participating airports. The next time you travel, simply scan your biometric marker and boarding pass at the CLEAR lanes to bypass traditional security.
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What biometric information does CLEAR scan?
CLEAR can scan your eyes or fingerprints to prove your identity and allow you to bypass traditional security checks.
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How much does CLEAR cost?
CLEAR costs $189 per year, with the option to add family members for $60 each (up to three).
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Is CLEAR available at all airports?
No, CLEAR is currently available at around 40 airports and growing. Check the CLEAR website to see if it’s available at your preferred airport.
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Do I still need my boarding pass with CLEAR?
Yes, you still need your boarding pass with CLEAR. You can either get a paper version or use your phone to scan it at the CLEAR lanes.
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Is CLEAR worth it?
It depends on how often you travel and where. If you frequently travel through participating airports, CLEAR can save you time and hassle. However, if you don’t travel through these airports often, the cost may not be worth it.
