CLEAR® Pricing Breakdown: Is Airport Security Bypass Worth Your Money?

CLEAR® presents an intriguing proposition for frequent flyers: pay an annual fee and skip the security line at participating U.S. airports using biometric verification. But understanding how much it truly costs and whether those costs justify the convenience requires looking beyond the headline price. The program’s standard CLEAR® Plus membership carries an annual fee of $189, yet numerous pathways exist to reduce this amount—sometimes to zero.

Understanding CLEAR®’s Annual Cost Structure

CLEAR® operates as a technology-driven identity verification system designed to streamline airport security screening. Unlike traditional security lines, CLEAR® members are escorted directly through a biometric verification checkpoint using either fingerprint or iris scanning, then proceed to standard TSA screening. Enrollment happens quickly—travelers can sign up directly at airport kiosks with just an online form and preliminary scan.

The base membership price sits at $189 annually, which translates to approximately $16 monthly or roughly $5 per round-trip flight for those traveling six times per year. For frequent travelers, this math becomes more favorable; someone flying 12 round trips annually might pay just $8 per journey. Conversely, occasional travelers face a steeper per-trip cost, potentially exceeding $50 when limited to just three annual round-trip flights.

For comparison, government-operated expedited screening programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and NEXUS charge $100 or less for five years of membership. CLEAR®’s premium pricing reflects its private ownership and different value proposition—it addresses a distinct pain point in the security process that government programs don’t fully resolve.

Ways to Reduce Your CLEAR® Expenses Through Programs and Cards

Numerous airline loyalty programs and credit card offerings provide discounted or complimentary CLEAR® access, making the program accessible at substantially lower effective costs.

Airline Loyalty Program Discounts

Delta’s SkyMiles rewards members receive CLEAR® for $119 yearly. Those achieving Medallion status (Silver, Gold, or Platinum tier) pay $109 annually, while Diamond Medallion passengers and Delta 360° members enroll free. United Airlines’ MileagePlus program mirrors this structure: regular members receive the $119 rate, while Silver, Gold, and Platinum Premier members pay $109. United Global and Premier 1K members qualify for complimentary enrollment.

Premium Credit Card Benefits

The American Express Green Card provides a $100 statement credit toward CLEAR® enrollment. More generously, the Platinum Card from American Express covers the full $189 annual cost through a statement credit (terms apply), as does The Business Platinum Card. Holders of co-branded Delta and United American Express credit cards often qualify for the discounted membership rates offered through those airline loyalty tiers.

Other Discount Pathways

CLEAR® extends reduced pricing to specific groups: students pay $60 annually, while active military, veterans, and government employees (federal, state, and local) receive reduced rates or must request pricing. Additional household members can join for $60 per person yearly—less than one-third the standard rate. Notably, children under 18 traveling with an enrolled adult gain complimentary access and can register independently at the friends-and-family rate ($60) once they reach adulthood.

Does CLEAR® Deliver Value for Your Travel Habits?

The ultimate question hinges on individual circumstances. CLEAR® shines for those with frequent airport trips and regular access to the program at their primary airports. The service currently operates at approximately 45 U.S. airports and is expanding into stadium and entertainment venue identity verification.

The value calculation requires honest assessment: How often do you fly? Which airports do you use most? Is CLEAR® available where you typically travel? The program doesn’t eliminate airport security procedures entirely—it bypasses the credential-checking queue, allowing members to proceed directly to physical screening. This distinction matters because it defines the actual time savings you’ll experience.

For those flying multiple times monthly, the per-trip cost becomes negligible. For those flying a handful of times annually, full-price membership may represent poor value. However, if you qualify for discounted rates through airline status, credit card benefits, or occupational eligibility, the calculation shifts dramatically.

Quick Answers About CLEAR® Enrollment and Features

How does CLEAR® differ from TSA PreCheck?

While TSA PreCheck ($100 for five years) expedites credential verification and security screening, members still queue in a dedicated line. CLEAR® ($189 annually at full price) bypasses the line entirely, escorting members directly to physical screening. Many travelers maintain both memberships to maximize benefits.

How quickly can I start using CLEAR® after enrolling?

Unlike background-check-dependent programs, CLEAR® requires only identity verification. Many travelers complete enrollment and use the service immediately, sometimes within minutes of first arriving at an airport checkpoint.

Is CLEAR® available at my airport?

The program’s footprint continues expanding but remains geographically limited. The official CLEAR® website provides a searchable directory of participating airports and venues, allowing you to verify availability at your most-used travel hubs before committing to membership.

Can my family members also get CLEAR®?

Yes. Children under 18 traveling with an enrolled adult receive complimentary access. Adults can add up to three family members or friends for $60 each annually.

CLEAR® ultimately addresses a specific airport pain point through premium pricing. Like any premium travel service, the decision depends less on the program’s features and more on your personal travel frequency, airport accessibility, and eligibility for discounted rates through existing programs or credit card memberships.