Is CLEAR worth subscribing to?
CLEAR is an airport security subscription that makes the airport security process stress free, but at $189 per year is it worth it?
Clear entrance at George Bush International Airport in Houston, Texas. Courtesy CLEAR.
Before getting into my thoughts on CLEAR I want to answer a few common questions regarding the service.
What is CLEAR?
CLEAR is a subscription service that provides clients with the ability to go to the front of Airport Security Lines at TSA checkpoints. One additional benefit of the membership is it also gives you expedited entry into sporting events and concerts at specific stadiums or arenas. The sports and events access is included with the CLEAR membership and you are allowed to bring one adult guest (children under 18 are allowed with an adult).
What is the difference between CLEAR and TSA PreCheck?
CLEAR gets you to the very front of the TSA checkpoint line, whereas TSA PreCheck gives you an expedited security process, but you still need to get in line behind other individuals that have TSA PreCheck. TSA PreCheck also allows you to go through security without removing your shoes or walking through the body scanners, which is a nice perk. For the ultimate in Airport Security efficiency, you can combine both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck to get the best of both worlds.
How much does a CLEAR membership cost?
standard cost of the CLEAR membership is $189 per year. You can add up to three additional family members or friends for $60 each and family members under the age of 18 can join you for free. However, there are ways for saving on the membership.
Sign up for a free Delta Skymiles Account: Join Skymiles
General Skymiles Account - Cost $179 ($10 Savings)
Platinum, Gold or Silver Accounts - Cost $149 ($40 Savings)
Diamond Accounts - Cost is Free ($189 Savings)
Apply for a credit card that will cover the cost. One of my favorites is the American Express Platinum card, which gives you a statement credit of $189 for CLEAR and another statement credit for TSA PreCheck which will allow you to have both. You can learn more about the Platinum Card here.
Where can I use CLEAR?
CLEAR is in most major airports in the United States and a select few Stadiums or Arenas. They are currently located in 46 cities and about 70 locations. A complete active list can be found on CLEARs website here.
How do I sign-up for CLEAR?
You can sign up for CLEAR here. Once you have completed the initial registration, you will need to activate your account which needs to be done at a CLEAR location at an airport or stadium/arena. The activation process takes about 10-15 minutes, so make sure you are giving yourself enough time on your next trip to the airport. The process is pretty simple, they will take your photo and scan your fingerprints and eyes. The scans will be used each time you go through the CLEAR lines in the future.
Is CLEAR worth it?
The answer to this question is… it depends. If you travel frequently to or from large airports then it is probably worth it. If your main airport is smaller with shorter security lines, then you may not see the value in the membership. CLEAR has saved me a couple of times after going through immigration and customs on international flights back into the United States. It is quite amazing to go through airport security in about 10 minutes at a large international airport!
