Which Credit Cards Give CLEAR for Free?

Understanding CLEAR Membership

Expedited airport security programs offer a path to a more streamlined travel experience, helping travelers navigate busy airport environments more efficiently. CLEAR stands out among these programs by providing a unique approach to identity verification. It aims to reduce the time spent in security lines, offering a convenience that many frequent travelers find valuable.

CLEAR is a biometric identity verification service operating at numerous airports and stadiums across the United States. It utilizes an individual’s unique physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition, to confirm their identity. This process replaces the traditional method of presenting a physical government-issued ID and boarding pass to a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent.

The primary purpose of CLEAR is to allow members to bypass the initial identification check at airport security checkpoints. After a quick biometric scan, a CLEAR ambassador escorts the member directly to the physical security screening area, often ahead of the general queue. While CLEAR does not replace TSA PreCheck, it can complement it, potentially leading to an even faster journey through security. The standard annual membership fee for CLEAR Plus is typically $209.

Credit Cards Providing CLEAR Benefits

Many premium credit cards offer statement credits to cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus membership. These benefits are usually provided as an annual statement credit up to the full membership amount. The eligible credit card must be used to pay for the CLEAR Plus membership to trigger the credit.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express provide up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year for CLEAR Plus membership. This credit can cover the cost for the basic card member and any additional card members on the account, up to the maximum credit amount. These cards are generally suited for frequent travelers who can maximize their array of travel and lifestyle benefits.

The American Express® Green Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card both offer up to $209 in statement credits annually for CLEAR Plus membership. The Green Card is a mid-tier travel card, while the Aspire Card targets Hilton loyalists.

Some Delta SkyMiles American Express co-branded cards offer discounted rates on CLEAR Plus membership. Eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members, including those with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve, Platinum, Gold, and Blue American Express Cards, can receive a discounted annual rate of $169 for CLEAR Plus. Delta Diamond Medallion members receive a complimentary CLEAR Plus membership. These cards are designed for loyal Delta flyers, offering airline-specific perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.

Not all popular travel credit cards include a CLEAR Plus benefit. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, while offering a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, does not provide a direct statement credit for CLEAR Plus membership. The Wells Fargo Autograph Card, which provides strong rewards on categories like travel and dining with no annual fee, does not currently offer a CLEAR benefit.

Utilizing Your Credit Card’s CLEAR Benefit

To activate and utilize the CLEAR Plus benefit provided by an eligible credit card, the process begins by enrolling in the CLEAR Plus program. This can be initiated online through the CLEAR website or in person at a CLEAR enrollment center located within participating airports. When enrolling online, individuals will provide basic personal information.

For the benefit to be applied, the eligible credit card must be used as the payment method for the CLEAR Plus membership fee. Existing CLEAR Plus members can update their payment information within their CLEAR account to ensure the correct card is on file for renewal charges. This is crucial for triggering the statement credit from the credit card issuer.

After the CLEAR Plus membership fee is charged to the eligible credit card, the statement credit typically appears on the cardholder’s account. While some credits may post within a few days, it can take up to six to eight weeks for the statement credit to be fully processed and reflected on the billing statement. Cardholders should regularly check their account statements to confirm the credit has been applied.

Completing the CLEAR Plus enrollment requires an in-person visit to a CLEAR location at an airport. During this visit, a CLEAR ambassador will verify the individual’s government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and collect biometric data, including fingerprints and iris or facial scans. Once this biometric enrollment is complete, the CLEAR Plus membership becomes fully active for use.