If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ve probably heard the term “CLEAR” at the airport. CLEAR is a reputable traveler program that aims to make airport security more simple and faster. Travelers using CLEAR can bypass large security queues and enter a particular security lane. But what exactly is CLEAR, and how does it work?
In this blog, we will go over the basics of the CLEAR airport service. Then, we will discuss the membership details, how it works, and what benefits it offers travelers.
What is CLEAR?
CLEAR is a private company that offers a trusted traveler program that helps to clear airport security screening. The program is offered at selected airports around the United States and is intended to make airport security more quick and comfortable for travelers.
Travelers using CLEAR can bypass large security queues and enter a specific security lane. First, the program verifies travelers’ identities using biometric technologies such as fingerprint and iris scans, allowing them to avoid the usual ID check process. Once their identity has been validated, travelers are directed to the front of the security line, where they can go through screening without removing their shoes, belts, or coats.
Overall, the CLEAR airport service aims to make the airport experience for travelers faster, more efficient, and less stressful. For example, travelers can save time and avoid the hassle of standard security screening procedures by skipping the long security queues.
How Clear Works?
The CLEAR airport service uses biometric technology to verify travelers’ identities and speed up security clearance. Here is how it works:
- Travelers must first register for the CLEAR program by filling out an online registration form and giving basic personal information. They must also provide their card information to pay the annual fee.
- After enrolling, passengers must complete the identity verification at a CLEAR enrollment facility. Travelers will provide biometric information at the enrolment center, such as fingerprint and iris scans. This data will be linked with their CLEAR account.
- Travelers who have enrolled and been verified can use CLEAR at participating airports. When they reach the security checkpoint, they will proceed to the CLEAR lane and use the machine to scan their biometric information.
- A CLEAR employee will then accompany them to the front of the security line, where they can undergo screening without removing their shoes, belts, or coats.
Is Clear Membership Worth it?
The worth of a CLEAR membership is based on your travel habits and preferences. These are some factors to consider:
- If you fly regularly, a CLEAR membership could save you time and help you bypass long security queues.
- As CLEAR airport service is unavailable at all airports, it may not be worth it if you mainly fly to airports that do not provide the service.
- If you already have enrolled in other services like the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, CLEAR may not be required because these programs provide quicker security screening as well.
- CLEAR membership costs $189 per year, so you must consider whether the time saved is worth the price.
- If you prefer the convenience and want a more seamless airport experience, CLEAR may be the right option for you.
What are the Pros and Cons of Clear Service?
Here are some pros and cons of the CLEAR airport service to help you determine whether it is right for you:
Pros
- CLEAR allows you to bypass long security lines and easily complete the security screening process, saving you time and making your airport trip less stressful.
- You can continue through security without removing your shoes, belts, or jackets by scanning your biometric information at the terminal.
- CLEAR airport service is now operational at over 35 major airports in the United States, making it available to various travelers.
- Members can add up to three adult family members to their account at a reduced charge, allowing the entire family to benefit from expedited security screening.
Cons
- A CLEAR airport service membership costs $189 per year, which may not be worth it for travelers who do not fly regularly or who can use other trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
- While CLEAR is offered at many major airports, it is not at every airport. If you primarily fly from smaller airports, CLEAR may not be an option for you.
- Some tourists may be hesitant to provide biometric information for security reasons, which could be a disadvantage of utilizing CLEAR.
- While CLEAR airport service can speed up security screening, it is not a replacement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which provide additional benefits, including faster customs and immigration processing.
How to Activate and Deactivate Clear Membership?
Follow these steps to activate your CLEAR membership:
- Go to the CLEAR website (clearme.com) and select the “Get Clear” option.
- Fill out the online enrollment form.
- Choose your preferred plan.
- Fill in your identity verification information.
- Complete the biometric verification process at a CLEAR enrollment facility, which includes scanning your fingerprints or iris.
- After you have completed your enrollment, you can use your CLEAR membership to access expedited security lanes at participating airports.
Follow these procedures to deactivate your CLEAR membership:
- On the CLEAR website, sign in to your CLEAR account.
- In the top menu bar, select the “Settings” tab.
- At the bottom of the page, click the “Cancel Membership” button.
- Follow the instructions to confirm your membership cancellation.
Remember that if you discontinue your CLEAR membership, you may lose any remaining membership time or benefits. If you have any problems or queries, please contact CLEAR customer support.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CLEAR airport service is a program that provides quicker security screening and clearance at airports and stadiums around the United States. CLEAR members can avoid long security queues and enter dedicated lanes using biometric technologies such as fingerprint and iris scanning to verify their identification. CLEAR strives to make travel faster and less stressful for its members.
In this blog, we discussed its pros and cons and how to activate and deactivate the membership. Thank you for reading, and please share your valuable feedback and thoughts in the comment section.