Clear, the biometric technology company known for its expedited airport security service, has recently raised the annual membership fee for its Clear Plus program. This change marks the second adjustment in the program’s pricing over the past 14 years, reflecting the company’s ongoing expansion and enhancement of its services.
Fee Increase Announcement
Effective last week, the cost of Clear Plus has risen from $189 to $199 annually. Members renewing their subscriptions will see the $10 increase reflected in their next annual billing cycle. However, the benefit of bringing children under 18 remains free for Clear Plus members.
New Pricing Structure
A Clear representative informed Travel + Leisure, “Clear has adjusted the price of its Clear Plus membership to $199 per year, which equates to less than $1 per month. This adjustment marks only the second price change in 14 years.” The representative also noted that the new pricing accompanies additional benefits under the Clear Perks program, including Clear Scout—a service designed to assist members in recovering lost or misplaced items at airports through the company’s ambassadors. The price change reflects an expansion of Clear’s network, now offering over 150 lanes in 58 airports, as well as enhanced features like the Home-to-Gate app, Clear Mobile, and Reserve, making the benefits more accessible than ever.
Previous Rate Adjustments
Clear’s pricing structure varies for individuals and families, with previous rate adjustments affecting family plans as recently as late last year. The company’s footprint has broadened significantly over the past year, with availability in nearly 60 airports nationwide. Clear members benefit from expedited ID verification through biometric scans of their eyes or fingers, enabling them to bypass the standard airport security lines.
Credit Card Benefits
Certain travel credit cards, including consumer and business versions of the Amex Platinum, continue to offer full reimbursement for the Clear annual membership, effectively covering the updated $199 fee.
Comparison with TSA PreCheck
In comparison, TSA PreCheck, a government-run program, provides pre-approved travelers with expedited screening—allowing them to keep liquids, shoes, and laptops in their bags at separate security lanes—for a membership fee of $78 valid for five years.
Bundled Membership Savings
For frequent travelers, holding both memberships can be advantageous, particularly for accessing the PreCheck lane more swiftly. New and existing members can save on both services by enrolling with a Clear representative at a participating airport, securing a discounted bundle: $199 for Clear Plus (with an initial charge of $121.05) and $77.95 for TSA PreCheck.
Conclusion
As Clear continues to enhance its services and expand its network, the increase in the Clear Plus membership fee reflects the growing value and benefits offered to travelers. While the updated fee may impact some members, the comprehensive benefits and expanded access provided by Clear aim to enhance the overall travel experience. For those seeking additional convenience, combining Clear Plus with TSA PreCheck offers a streamlined journey through airport security, highlighting the evolving landscape of travel amenities.