Membership prices for security screening companies are rising. Starting July 1, memberships for the accelerated security program, Clear Plus will reach $209 ($199) per year.
No one wants to see prices rise, but the good news is that there are still many ways to get it for free.
A clear spokesperson reminded TPG that this is just the third price adjustment in its 15-year history ($179 in 2010). “…reflecting our continued investment in over 150 lanes and networks across 59 airports nationwide, making airport travel faster, safer, and more predictable.”
Clear points to the latest membership enhancements, including the addition of 45 lanes and 19 airports, such as Enve Pods and Biometrics e-net, allowing passengers to upload their passports to get real IDs and expand technology to areas such as stadiums.
Remember, Clear offers discounts and even free memberships for Delta Skymiles and United LileagePlus members. Some top elite members even get free membership.
In addition, several credit cards give clear statements of membership credit.
Clarify the statement credits for membership improvement on AMEX
In fact, the company told us, “From July 1, 2025, American Express will increase its declared credit to $209 per year when it pays for an automatic update of Clear Plus American American Express card.”
Qualified cards include:
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Card members must join a clear membership and use a qualified US Express card as a payment method to receive this benefit.
You do not need to register for this benefit through American Express in advance, just use your qualified credit card to pay for a clear membership and receive a stated credit as reimbursement.
Here is how to use this benefit.
New pricing for United and Delta Elites and Cardholders
Delta and United pricing will also be updated based on member loyalty levels.
This is a handy chart showing various membership allowances at different elite levels. As you can see, Delta Diamond Medal and 360 people get free memberships, and membership fees at other elite levels are also reduced.
|
Unity |
delta |
cost |
|---|---|---|
|
United Global Services |
Diamond Medal and Delta 360°™ |
Free (no change) |
|
Prime Minister 1K |
N/A. |
$129 (no changes) |
|
Prime Minister Silver/Platinum/Gold or United Credit Card Member |
Platinum, Gold, Silver Medal Members and Qualified Delta Skymiles American Express Card Members |
$169 |
|
Mileage Pluce |
Skymiles |
$199 |
Prices for cardholders, basic members and low-level elite members have all risen by $20.
Also on July 1, add a second adult to your account for $125. Additionally, the rates for senior/military/government employees will remain the same at $119 per person per year.
Related: Clear test new biometric filter gates
Bottom line
We never like to hear about price increases and weaker discounts.
Still, it is possible to get a free clear membership with the right credit card strategy (or become the top elite of some airlines).
Remember that as long as kids travel with member-friendly adults, clear driveways are still available for free.
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