Clear+ is getting more expensive: Here’s how you can still get it for free or discounted – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Travelers who rely on Clear to move quickly through airport security will notice a change starting this month. The annual fee for the Clear+ program increases to $219 from $209, effective July 1. The adjustment follows a similar $10 rise last year and affects anyone paying out of pocket for the expedited service available at dozens of major U.S. airports.
The Timeline and Scope of the Increase
The new rate applies immediately to new and renewing members. Clear+ has raised its price for the second year in a row, bringing the total increase to 10 percent over the past two years. The company has not announced further changes, though the pattern suggests continued upward pressure on the membership cost. The service itself remains unchanged. Members complete a brief identity verification at a dedicated kiosk and then proceed directly to the baggage screening area, bypassing the standard Transportation Security Administration queue. The program also operates at select sports and entertainment venues.
How Credit Card Benefits Offset the Higher Price
Many frequent travelers already avoid paying the full amount through existing card benefits. The American Express Platinum Card has updated its annual statement credit to cover up to $219 for Clear+ purchases made with the card. Cardmembers must enroll in the benefit, after which the credit applies automatically to qualifying annual memberships. This adjustment aligns the reimbursement exactly with the new fee level. The card carries its own $895 annual fee, yet the Clear credit forms one of several travel-related perks that help offset that cost for users who take advantage of them. Other premium cards sometimes include partial Clear credits, though the Amex Platinum update provides the most direct match to the current pricing.
Discounts Available Through Airline Status and Special Offers
Airline elite status continues to unlock reduced rates for qualifying members. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines all extend discounted Clear+ pricing to their top-tier frequent flyers. The exact savings vary by status level and airline, but they remain available without interruption from the general price increase. New members can also reduce the first-year cost through targeted promotions. One current offer provides $50 off the annual fee along with a complimentary Clear Concierge booking, a service that assists with reservations and has helped some travelers avoid multi-hour security delays during peak periods. These promotions typically apply only to first-time subscribers and require enrollment through designated partner links.
Practical Steps for Travelers Evaluating the Service
Anyone considering Clear+ should first check whether their existing credit cards or airline status already provide coverage or discounts. Those without such benefits can compare the net cost after any available promotion against the time savings at their most frequently used airports. The program does not replace TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, though some travelers combine multiple expedited options depending on their itinerary.
– Annual fee stands at $219 beginning July 1
– Amex Platinum credit rises to match the new amount
– Airline elite status and limited-time offers provide additional savings paths
– The service continues at major U.S. airports without changes to its core process
The fee increase places renewed attention on the value of loyalty programs and premium card benefits for regular air travelers. Those who plan ahead can still limit or eliminate the out-of-pocket expense while retaining access to faster security screening.
