The easiest way to unlock priority boarding, including if you're in basic economy, is with an eligible co-branded United credit card. For example, with the United? Explorer Card, you and any companions on the same reservation will be invited to board in Group 2.

You likely gained priority boarding on United through one of several established channels. The most common method is holding Premier Elite status (Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K) in the MileagePlus program, which places you in Groups 1 or 2. Alternatively, you might have used a co-branded Chase credit card, such as the United Explorer, Quest, or Club Infinite, which automatically grants Group 2 boarding. If you are flying in a premium cabin (United Polaris, First, or Business), priority is included. If none of these apply, you may have purchased "Priority Boarding" or "Premier Access" as an add-on during booking or check-in, or you might be an active-duty U.S. military member, who is invited to board early. Note that Basic Economy tickets are generally ineligible for purchased priority boarding unless you have the qualifying credit card.