CLEAR, the biometric identity verification company, has announced plans to expand its opt-in eGates program to several major airports across the US. The rollout is expected to begin Tuesday at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (ATL), with similar launches scheduled for Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Seattle-Tacoma Airport (SEA).
The program, which is funded by CLEAR at no cost to taxpayers, allows only CLEAR+ members to use the eGates. Travelers will undergo real-time biometric verification, matching their face to their ID and boarding pass, to expedite security screening.
CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker emphasizes that the eGates program is designed to provide “frictionless travel” and increased security. The program has been integrated into existing TSA protocols, with passengers moving directly to screening once cleared.
CLEAR+ members pay $209 per year for access to expedited identity verification using biometrics. The company maintains that it does not have access to watchlists or override TSA gate decisions. Instead, it transmits limited data, such as the live photo and ID photo used for enrollment.
The expansion of the eGate program underscores the TSA’s growing comfort with biometric identity verification. CLEAR plans to roll out the program nationwide, with the goal of having airports competing globally by next summer’s World Cup.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/08/19/tsa-clear-airport-security-atlanta-dc-seattle