Why CLEAR Is Not Worth It

For many without TSA Pre-Check, CLEAR may seem like a easy way to skip those long airport security lines. You might have even experienced being at the front of the line and had to wait a bit longer for a CLEAR-enrolled traveler.  You’re now wondering if it’ll be worth it just to give in and enroll in the program. However, after enrolling in the program and using it a few times, we’ve come to the conclusion that the costs are simply not worth it. 

Founded in 2010, CLEAR announced it has reached over 12 million members in 2022. This is not a surprise. The biggest attraction for enrolling in CLEAR compared to TSA PreCheck is that the process is quick, painless and can be done at the airport right before your flight (if you have extra time). It is a one time enrollment with no long processing times or mandatory interview which makes it accessible to everyone. To qualify, travelers need to fill out a short online application, be at least 18 years old and must provide a valid photo I.D. such as a driver’s license, U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, U.S.-issued permanent resident card, state issued ID, or U.S. military ID. Sounds great so far right?

CLEAR it is a private company and has no government affliations. The company uses technology to gather biometric data to confirm your identity. Most people who have not already signed up with Clear are hesitate to enroll in fear of what the company may do with their data, despite assurance from the company that data is not sold. It is still a valid concern but not the biggest reason why Clear isn’t worth it. 

In recent months, as membership has grown, the lines to pass through CLEAR has gotten a bit longer and bit more chaotic. What do we mean by that? Well, let’s dive into the the experience. After waiting on line for your turn, you are met with a CLEAR representative who will assist you with verifying your identity by  either having your eyes or fingertips scanned through one of the CLEAR stations. Once your identity has been confirmed, a CLEAR representative will escort you, and sometimes a group of other recently verified CLEAR members, to the TSA worker verifying identities at the security checkpoint. In other words you are literally skipping the line to get your bags screened. This can feel a bit awkward, especially when there are a group of other CLEAR members with you and the airport is busy. Once you pass through the checkpoint, you will have to go through the regular security check process of removing your shoes, belts and laptops out of your bag. 

Now this experience isn’t too bad until you start to compare the costs with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. While the initial enrollment fee may seem reasonable, the annual $189 cost of maintaining a CLEAR membership quickly adds up to $890 in a 5 year period. TSA PreCheck costs $78 for a 5 year membership and for just $22 more, you can get a Global Entry for the same duration. With both of these memberships, you will have the access to an entirely separate line where you will not have to take off your shoes, belt, light jacket or laptops from your bag. Because of this, lines move faster and are more convenient and what ultimately makes CLEAR not worth it. 

So, while the idea of the CLEAR program may seem appealing, it's simply not worth the cost. For anyone looking to make their airport experience smoother and more enjoyable, invest in TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry instead.