How Much Is CLEAR? Is It Worth The Cost?

Clear Secure is a technology company that uses biometric data to verify identity in a variety of everyday contexts. Its flagship program, CLEAR® Plus—often referred to simply as “CLEAR”—allows members to skip the security line at U.S. airports with a fingerprint or iris scan. Travelers can sign up right at the airport, as only an online form and a preliminary scan are needed to enroll.

CLEAR® Plus is different from TSA PreCheck, which offers both a faster line and quicker passage through the physical screening process, but still requires queuing to provide identity credentials (such as a driver’s license or passport). By contrast, CLEAR® Plus members are escorted straight to the physical screening. Some travelers enrolled in both programs can continue through the rest of the PreCheck security process after using CLEAR® Plus.

You may not need to face the typical $189 cost per year. Discount programs, certain credit cards and airline loyalty programs offer both discounts and complimentary membership.

Is CLEAR® Plus Expensive?

Expensive is subjective, but CLEAR® Plus costs significantly more than other preclearance programs for air travelers. While the government-run TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and NEXUS programs charge $100 or less for five years of enrollment, CLEAR® Plus is a for-profit business, and its significantly higher pricing reflects it.

How To Get a Discounted or Free CLEAR® Plus Membership

Several airline credit cards, travel cards and airline loyalty programs offer preferred rates or reimbursements for CLEAR® Plus. Here are some of the most common ways to avoid the full sticker price.

Delta SkyMiles

Members of Delta Airlines’ SkyMiles program, which rewards frequent Delta passengers, can enroll in CLEAR® Plus for $179 per year. SkyMiles members who have achieved Medallion Status pay even less: CLEAR® Plus is $149 per year for the Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Diamond Medallion passengers and Delta 360° members can enroll for free.

United MilagePlus

Similarly, CLEAR Plus offers preferred rates to members of United Airlines’ frequent flyer rewards program, MileagePlus. A $179 yearly rate is offered to regular members, while premier members at the Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers pay $149. Enrollment is free for Premier 1K and Global Services members. Eligible cardholders of United’s co-branded credit cards can also enjoy the $149 rate.

American Express Credit Cards

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a $189 statement credit on CLEAR® Plus membership (Terms apply), which covers the cost of enrollment. The same applies to the travel rewards-focused American Express® Green Card* and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply). The incredibly elite Centurion® Card from American Express* also offers its lucky cardholders a $369 statement credit each year.

Vocational Discounts

CLEAR® Plus offers a reduced annual enrollment fee of $99 for active military and veterans, as well as an unspecified discount for federal, state and local government employees upon request.

CLEAR® Plus enrollees can receive discounts for additional accounts by adding up to three friends or family members to the account for nearly half the membership price—$99 each per year.

How Much Does CLEAR® Plus Cost for Kids?

Family members under 18 can join an enrolled adult using CLEAR Plus free of charge, so long as they travel together. Once children are no longer minors, they can register through a parent’s account at the friends and family rate or enroll separately.

Given CLEAR® Plus’ significant annual fee and somewhat limited availability—in just over 55 U.S. airports—it’s common to wonder if the benefits outweigh the price. The most important factors in running this calculation for yourself are your frequency of travel and whether or not CLEAR® Plus exists at the airports you use the most. If you’re on the fence about the cost, it might be worth it to consider the less expensive alternatives for expedited screenings at airport security, like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

CLEAR® Plus’ $189 yearly fee breaks down to just under $16 a month. It can break down to about five dollars per round trip for those who travel a few times per month, but well over $50 per trip or higher for those who only travel a few times a year.

CLEAR® Plus offers a solution to portion of the ever-unpopular airport security experience that nobody particularly enjoys. Like any “special treatment” option for travelers, the cost versus the benefit comes down to the individual. It’s worth taking a close look at one’s own travel patterns and budget plus all the other options available before splurging on this high-price membership.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page.