It’s no secret that CLEAR has been going through some things over the past year. Incidents of people getting through security via the CLEAR lanes without having a valid picture on file resulted in the TSA mandating passengers undergo additional identification checks. While CLEAR has stated that this issue only affected a small number of its members, the increased ID checks have eliminated any advantage of using these special lanes. As a result, CLEAR is now under increased scrutiny to ensure that its security protocols are effective and reliable for all passengers.
It’s no surprise that CLEAR has launched a new ID verification system called NextGen Identity+. I received my first email about the program towards the end of 2023.
CLEAR’s NextGen Identity+ is the highest fidelity digital identity, unlocking physical and digital experiences for our Members in the airport and beyond. We are excited about the even more predictable, friction-free experience that NextGen Identity+ will unlock for our Members and the enhanced security it provides.
When we flew in December, I set up my CLEAR account for the upgrade, which included providing my mobile phone number to confirm my identity. However, when I went to the CLEAR lane and asked about upgrading, the agent said I didn’t have to worry about it yet.
Upgrading to CLEAR NextGen Identity+
PC: CLEAR
On my recent visit to Orlando Airport, I used the CLEAR lanes. Upon checking my boarding pass, the agent said that I needed to update my information in the system, which would include taking a new picture and providing my ID. I gave her my drivers license, which she scanned into the system, and then I had to look at the camera.
In all, the process only took an extra two minutes.
Once finished, she said the system would take a day or two to update with my new data. Since the process was only to collect my NextGen Identity+ data, I still needed to get my ID verified by the “old” system before going through the TSA checkpoint.
Why Does CLEAR Need My Information Again?
The current form of CLEAR debuted in 2012. At the time, CLEAR used biometric data from either your fingerprints or an iris scan to confirm your identity at the kiosk.
Technology has advanced since then, and CLEAR will roll out its “Lane of the Future” throughout 2024. These new lanes will use newer technology, mainly facial recognition, to match travelers, similar to systems at Passport Control and TSA security lanes.
NextGen Identity+ will unlock the CLEAR Lane of the Future. The CLEAR Lane of the Future, which will be rolling out over 2024, will deliver an even faster, more predictable airport experience for our Members. It will allow CLEAR Plus Members to verify their identity with their face (instead of iris or fingerprints) for a fast verification to keep them moving quickly through the Lane. Our vision is to keep you moving through the CLEAR Lane where you don’t break your stride.
Final Thought
Although the recent upgrades may seem to be a response to the issues CLEAR has been facing, they have actually been working with the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration since 2020. While there are concerns about the privacy of your facial biometric data, it’s unlikely that anyone who has already shared their fingerprints and iris scan with CLEAR would have an objection to adding a facial scan to their profile.
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