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CLEAR® Plus allows you to almost never have to even take out your ID when going through airport security. You use a CLEAR kiosk to verify your identity through biometric technology (either a scan of your eyes or fingerprints) and you’re led through the line to an agent before heading through a metal detector.
The combination of CLEAR and TSA PreCheck® has saved me countless hours in time I would have spent in line at airport security. But, these services are not cheap. TSA PreCheck® costs $78 for five years (or its included with the $100 fee paid for Global Entry). CLEAR® Plus costs an additional $189 per year, but there are ways to get it discounted or even for free.
3. Hold Premier 1K® or Global Services Status with United Airlines
United Airlines bought a stake in CLEAR in 2019. It’s been offering its top-tier Premier 1K® and Global Services flyers a free CLEAR® Plus membership in the program since then. There are discounts for other members ranging from $10 off for general MileagePlus members to a $40 discount for Silver, Gold, and Platinum Premiers as well as those that hold a co-branded United credit card.
2. Have Diamond Medallion or Delta 360° Status
Delta Air Lines also holds an investment in CLEAR. CLEAR is offered at over 50 airports that the airline serves. Delta provides Diamond Medallion and Delta 360° members free CLEAR® Plus memberships as well. The discounts for other members as well as credit card holders are the same as what United offers.
2. Get an American Express Card that Offers Membership as a Cardholder Benefit
Receive up to $189 per calendar year in statement credits when you pay for your CLEAR Plus membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the American Express® Green Card. In my opinion, this credit alone makes up for the $150 annual fee from the card. This is also offered through The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Rates & Fees.
Anthony’s Take: CLEAR and TSA PreCheck are my biggest timesavers. CLEAR is expensive at $189 per year, but the ways above can save you some money and get you on your way faster.
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