CLEAR To Increase Membership Fees for Delta & United Members [Get It Free or Cheap!]

In May 2022, the popular airport screening service CLEAR increased its annual subscription fee for the first time since it was introduced to the market over a decade ago. Now, we’re seeing the cost of discounted memberships for Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus members increasing on February 1.

Luckily, though, there are numerous ways by which you can score a CLEAR membership for free.

Let’s take a look at the details of the discount changes, including when they will take place, and look at ways to pay less — or nothing at all — for your membership.

What Is CLEAR?

If you’re not already familiar, CLEAR connects your biometric information with your identity. In other words, instead of presenting your standard ID and your boarding pass, you can scan your eyes or fingerprints.

This allows you to bypass the general (or TSA PreCheck) identity check lines and head right into the TSA screening line ahead of most other passengers.

Hot Tip: If you want to learn more about this service and what it can offer to you as a traveler, read our thorough guide covering everything you need to know about CLEAR.

Details of Changes for Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus Members

Starting on February 1, 2023, the annual discounted membership price of CLEAR will increase for several eligible members:

• Delta SkyMiles Silver through Platinum Medallion members, United MileagePlus Premier Silver through Platinum members, and United co-branded credit cardholders can purchase an annual membership for $149 (an increase of $40)
• General Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus members can purchase an annual membership for $179 (an increase of $60)

Visit the Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus CLEAR landing pages to purchase your membership.

How To Get CLEAR Complimentary

There are a few credit cards that can help you get a complimentary CLEAR membership.

Namely, if you hold The Platinum Card^® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, you’ll receive a credit of up to $189 for CLEAR Plus each year (upon enrollment) your card remains active.

Hot Tip: Delta Diamond Medallion and 360º members and United Global Services and Premier 1K members will continue to receive a free membership upon enrollment.

Final Thoughts

CLEAR is an excellent service that is now available at 40+ airports and 15 stadiums throughout the U.S. that can help you get through security in a flash. While consumers never want to see discounts dissipate, those with select credit cards or airline elite status can continue to benefit from statement credits and reduced fees.