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How do I sign up for CLEAR?

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    Quick insights

    • CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus.
    • CLEAR Plus allows members to confirm their identity at airports, stadiums and more with biometric data.
    • Signing up for CLEAR Plus may help expedite airport security wait times.

    If you like to travel, you may be looking for a way to expedite the airport security process. There are numerous options available, including government-run programs like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® or privately run programs like CLEAR. Before we get into the details of signing up for CLEAR, let's take a look at the program itself.

    What is CLEAR?

    CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus. CLEAR Plus kiosks are commonly associated with airports. In other words, the main difference between CLEAR and CLEAR Plus is that CLEAR is the company name and CLEAR Plus is the name of the company’s membership program.

    One of CLEAR Plus's defining features is its use of biometrics as an identification tool. Your identity is confirmed at a kiosk using your eyes or fingerprints, which allows you to skip the document verification line during the security process. Once your identity has been confirmed, you can go straight to the security screening.

    Unlike government-run Trusted Traveler Programs (TTPs) such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR Plus does not require a background check to enroll. CLEAR Plus is open to anyone 18 and older who has a valid government-issued photo ID.

    Benefits of a CLEAR Plus membership

    CLEAR Plus is often used in conjunction with programs that allow access to TSA PreCheck lines. While a CLEAR Plus membership may help you get through identity confirmation faster (the first step of the TSA security line when your boarding pass and ID are scanned), TSA PreCheck can help get you through the physical screening more quickly.

    In addition to airports, some major sports stadiums have CLEAR security lines available. (Similarly to an airport, you're still subject to physical security screenings before entry.) If you apply for CLEAR Plus and are approved, you can access CLEAR lanes is participating locations.

    How to apply for CLEAR Plus

    You can sign up for CLEAR Plus in two ways—online or in-person at an airport. If you decide to enroll online, you will need to finish the process at an airport the next time you fly. The online application is short and requires basic information, such as your name, email and zip code.

    When you apply in-person, a CLEAR ambassador will verify your identification document before taking biometrics, such as fingerprints, a headshot and an eye scan. If you begin your enrollment online, you must still complete the biometrics step at the airport with an ambassador. After your biometrics are scanned and your enrollment is complete, you can start using your CLEAR Plus membership immediately.

    When you apply for CLEAR Plus, you also get the option to add family members or friends to your account for a discounted rate. You may add up to three additional members, aged 18 or older. Family members under the age of 18 can join you in the CLEAR line without cost.

    Cost of CLEAR

    As of March 2025, an annual standard membership for CLEAR Plus costs $199 but this is subject to change. This differs from many of the government-run programs, which require a single fee for several years of membership. If you wish to add family members or friends to your account, you can do so for a fee.

    In summary

    CLEAR’s membership Program, CLEAR Plus, is different from government TTPs, as it uses biometrics to validate your identity. Its goal, however, is similar—to get you through security as quickly and easily as possible. CLEAR may be a good option on its own or paired with other programs to further expedite your security process. 

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