Clear Becomes an Enrollment Provider for TSA Pre-Check

The Transportation Security Administration announced Tuesday that travelers will now be able to enroll in its Pre-check program through Clear.

Clear, a company that uses biometrics to verify passengers’ identities, will offer TSA Pre-check enrollments at airports in Orlando, Sacramento and Newark from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The TSA said Clear would eventually expand enrollments at more airports. 

“This is a win-win for U.S. travelers who will have access to more enrollment locations, expanded hours and other benefits,” said Clear CEO Caryn Seidman-Baker in a statement. 

The partnership is a product of the TSA and Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act of 2018 which required the agency to enter an enrollment agreement with at least two private sector entities to give flyers more enrollment methods. 

Travelers can also enroll for Pre-check with Idemia or Telos.

Clear Faces Some Scrutiny From Travelers, Lawmakers

Clear has dealt with scrutiny from lawmakers and travelers over its program. 

Some travelers have complained about long lines, which the company’s use of biometrics was supposed to eliminate. Others have also complained about the price: Clear costs t $189 a year versus $85 or less for Pre-check, which lasts five years. 

Lawmakers in California are also considering a bill that would limit Clear’s ability to expand in the state. The bill passed California’s Senate Transportation Committee April 24 and would hinder Clear’s ability to expand at airports until it has its own dedicated security lane. 

One major issue California lawmakers have with Clear is that it allows those who have paid for  membership to speed through the security line.

“When it comes to making one’s way through airport security, the quality of that experience shouldn’t be contingent on a traveler’s income or willingness to pay,” California State Senator Josh Newman told CNN.