Update: Since this post was initially published, the regular non-discounted CLEAR membership pricing has increased to $189 from the previous $179. Accordingly, this post’s phrasing surrounding cost/pricing is updated to reflect the fee change. And yes, Amex has also adjusted their statement credit to give back $189 (the new pricing).
CLEAR is a revolutionary initiative that completely transforms how identity verifications are conducted at airports, and other locations, such as sports stadiums.
CLEAR utilizes your biometrics to confirm it’s indeed you — as opposed to presenting an ID to the TSA agent. The idea is that this would be a much faster & hassle-free way of going through security checks at airports and other crowded places.
Typically, airports will have a separate line for CLEAR booths/pods where you can go, get your biometrics done, and get a move on.
The CLEAR Application and the Amex Platinum Credit
To enjoy CLEAR, you have to first apply for it with an application. The cost to apply is $189 per year for an individual who isn’t part of a family plan or any other discounted price.
Regardless of how much you pay for your CLEAR application, the Amex Platinum Card has a benefit wherein it will give you a statement credit for up to $189 per calendar year within 6-8 weeks. In reality though, it has been the experience of several folks that the money comes back much sooner than that.
Ensuring You Do Get the Amex Platinum CLEAR Credit
To leave no room for errors, follow the three step-process as American Express themselves describe it:
- Step 1: Go to https://www.clearme.com/enroll/
- Step 2: Either log in or create an account. Then, make sure you charge your Amex Platinum Card for the application fee (however much it costs).
- Step 3: Within the timeframe of 6-8 weeks after the credit card activity, likely earlier, you will receive a credit for up to $189, per year.
How the CLEAR Credit From Amex Platinum Looks Like
Once American Express has successfully identified a CLEAR charge, the refund will show up as a line item as one of your transactions. Specifically, it will be titled “CLEAR NEW YORK,” although, it may differ slightly. See the image screenshot below.
A Few FAQs
Yes. Amex says it’s up to $189, so anything above (the difference) will be out of your pocket. But up until $189, Amex should give you the statement credit.
As far as I know, the charge can happen on multiple different days, with multiple different amounts. The only thing you need to be aware of is that it occurs in the same calendar year. That is, if you fully want to take advantage of the entire $189.
No. As long as your Platinum Card is used for the charge, it does not matter for whose CLEAR membership you pay for. Yours, or someone else’s.
You May Also Want to Check Out:
- What Is Clear® at the Airports and How Does It Work?
- How To Get Approved for Amex Platinum Card®
- What Is SafeKey® by American Express?
- What Is the Amex Platinum Hotel Credit, and How To Use It Correctly
- What Is the Amex Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Fee Credit?
- Guide to Achieving Marriott Bonvoy™ Gold Elite Status With Amex Platinum
- What Is the $100 Experience Credit for Amex Platinum Cardholders?
- What Is TRIP CANCEL GUARD™ From American Express (Amex) Travel?
- How To Sign Up for Priority Pass With Amex Platinum
- What Is the “Global Entry” Trusted Traveler Program?
Summary
While the $189 fee for CLEAR per year may seem a little steep, when compared to how much TSA Pre or Global Entry costs, it can be a justifiable spend if you are a frequent traveler, are able to get the Amex Platinum Card statement credit for it, and are excited about new technologies and securities in general.
In theory, having TSA Pre alone is worth it, but you can easily combine that with CLEAR so that you can move even faster through security.