Which Credit Cards Offer CLEAR for Free?

Expedited airport screening services streamline the travel experience, allowing individuals to navigate security checkpoints more efficiently. Many credit cards offer travel benefits, including advantages related to premium airport services. Understanding how these credit card perks can cover the cost of such services is valuable for frequent travelers.

Understanding CLEAR

CLEAR is a biometric identity verification service designed to expedite security screening at participating airports and other venues. It allows members to bypass the traditional identity check line by using their fingerprints and iris scans to confirm identity at a dedicated kiosk. This service is distinct from government-run programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, but often complements them for a faster overall process. An annual CLEAR Plus membership typically costs $209.

Credit Cards Providing CLEAR Benefits

Several credit cards provide benefits that can offset the cost of a CLEAR Plus membership, often through statement credits. It is important to note that credit card benefits can change, so verifying current terms is always advisable.

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers up to $209 in statement credits annually for a CLEAR Plus membership. This benefit applies to the primary cardholder and any additional card members on the account, with the total credit capped at $209 per calendar year across all cards.

Similarly, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express provides up to $209 in annual statement credits for CLEAR Plus. Another option is the American Express® Green Card, which provides up to $209 in statement credits for CLEAR Plus each calendar year.

The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card also offers an annual statement credit of up to $209 for CLEAR Plus membership. This card is particularly beneficial for those loyal to the Hilton hotel brand, providing luxury travel perks alongside the CLEAR benefit.

It is important to remember that for these cards, the “free” aspect is realized when the cardholder uses the eligible card to pay for the CLEAR membership, and a corresponding statement credit is then applied to their account.

While many American Express cards offer full reimbursement, certain co-branded airline credit cards provide discounted rates rather than a full credit. For instance, Delta SkyMiles American Express Card members can receive a discounted CLEAR Plus membership for $169 per year, rather than the standard $209.

United MileagePlus credit cardholders also qualify for preferred pricing on CLEAR Plus, typically $169 annually, though United Global Services members may receive complimentary membership. It is important to distinguish between a full statement credit and a discounted rate when evaluating the overall value.

Notably, cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the United Club℠ Infinite Card do not offer a direct CLEAR Plus benefit. These cards typically provide credits for other trusted traveler programs such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which are distinct services from CLEAR.

Activating Your CLEAR Membership Benefit

To activate the CLEAR Plus membership benefit offered by an eligible credit card, locate the specific enrollment details provided by your credit card issuer. This information is typically found on the issuer’s website, within your online account portal, or through their dedicated benefits page. Reviewing these instructions ensures you follow the correct procedure for your particular card.

Once familiar with the card issuer’s guidelines, proceed to the CLEAR website to initiate your membership enrollment. During the sign-up process, it is essential to use your eligible credit card as the payment method for the annual CLEAR Plus fee. This triggers the statement credit benefit.

After the online enrollment and payment, a crucial final step involves completing your biometric registration. This requires an in-person visit to a CLEAR enrollment center, usually located at participating airports.

At this location, you will present a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and have your fingerprints and iris scans taken to finalize your membership.

The statement credit for your CLEAR Plus membership typically posts to your credit card account within a few days of the charge. However, in some instances, it may take up to six to eight weeks for the credit to appear.

Regularly checking your credit card statements is recommended to confirm that the benefit has been successfully applied and to track the reimbursement.