Is CLEAR verification safe?

CLEAR has been found by TSA to meet the NIST 800-53 HIGH baseline for security and privacy controls. CLEAR is also certified as a Department of Homeland Security Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology.



CLEAR is generally considered safe and secure, utilizing advanced biometric technology (fingerprints and iris scans) to verify your identity at airports and stadiums. In 2026, the company continues to be certified as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology under the SAFETY Act by the Department of Homeland Security. CLEAR encrypts your biometric data and claims it does not sell or rent personal information to third parties. However, like any platform handling sensitive data, it is not immune to risks. There have been instances where the TSA scrutinized CLEAR’s processes following security "incidents" involving unauthorized individuals. To maintain safety, CLEAR has moved toward a more integrated "NextGen Identity" system that matches biometric data directly against government-issued IDs. For most travelers, the convenience and high level of encryption make it a trusted tool, but users should always be aware that they are trading highly personal biometric data for speed.

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Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you – making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell member data.

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CLEAR uses biometrics to replace your I.D. for faster entry at stadiums, airports, and other venues across the country. Biometrics are unique biological characteristics that can be used to identify you, including your eyes, fingerprints, and face.

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Last year Clear (another U.S.-based security expediting platform that costs $189 per year) acquired virtual queuing company Whyline and has since partnered with airports in North America and Europe to develop a security line reservation system called Reserve by Clear.

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That said, Clear has never had a profit. It listed losses of $9 million in 2020, and $13.1 million in the three months ending March 31.

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How much does Clear cost? CLEAR® Plus Credit costs $189 per year for expedited airline security. The Clear app is free to download and includes free access to Clear Sports and the Clear Health Pass as well as other basic identity verification services.

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Global Entry is designed for travelers who want to save time when going through U.S. customs, and Clear is designed for travelers who want to quickly confirm their identity before beginning the airport (and, in some cases, sports arena) security screening process.

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Global Entry can save you time at U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Members skip processing lines and access automated kiosks instead. This can mean you spend less time waiting in line to be screened by a CBP officer, getting you on your way faster.

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TSA PreCheck and Clear aren't available at every airport, so many frequent travelers find it best to have memberships to both.

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Additionally, TSA PreCheck only works when traveling with a participating airline. In contrast, Clear works when traveling with any carrier. Clear and TSA PreCheck are restricted to certain hours and may not be available during your flight time.

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