CLEAR + TSA eGates Are Here: What Travelers Need to Know (2025)

The Headline: CLEAR and TSA Are Piloting Biometric eGates

CLEAR has announced a first-of-its-kind public–private pilot to introduce automated biometric eGates at U.S. airport security checkpoints. The pilot begins August 2025 at:

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Washington Reagan National (DCA)

• Seattle–Tacoma (SEA)

CLEAR says the eGates are designed to speed identity verification and help scale checkpoint capacity ahead of major travel surges like the FIFA World Cup 2026, while operating at no cost to taxpayers. TSA remains the security authority at the checkpoint.

What Exactly Is an “eGate”?

Think of an eGate as a self-service identity lane at the start of the checkpoint. The system performs real-time facial matching to confirm that the person standing at the gate matches the ID and boarding pass, then lets the traveler proceed directly to physical screening (the x-ray/WTMD/CT part), bypassing the manual TSA podium check.

Who’s in Charge of Security?

TSA is. CLEAR provides the eGate hardware and identity-matching tech, but TSA retains complete operational control—it triggers gate access decisions, conducts security vetting, and enforces all government security requirements. CLEAR cannot override TSA decisions and does not have access to watchlists.

How the Identity Check Works (and Your Options)

• Biometric match at the gate: A live photo is compared to your ID image to verify you are you, paired with your boarding pass details.

• Voluntary use of biometrics: TSA’s use of facial comparison for identity verification is voluntary. If you prefer, you can decline the photo and request the standard manual ID check by an officer—you won’t lose your place in line.

• What happens to the image? TSA states that photos used for checkpoint facial comparison are not stored after a positive match, except in limited testing environments for evaluating effectiveness.

Privacy & Data Handling at a Glance

• CLEAR’s role: CLEAR transmits limited data necessary for identity verification (live photo, boarding pass, and ID photo used for enrollment/identity information) to enable the match; the company states it cannot open gates manually, has no access to watchlists, and cannot override TSA.

• TSA safeguards: TSA emphasizes privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties protections in its biometrics programs, including clear signage, the right to opt out, and adherence to DHS Privacy Impact Assessments.

Where You’ll See eGates First (2025 Pilot Airports)

• ATL – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International

• DCA – Ronald Reagan Washington National

• SEA – Seattle–Tacoma International

CLEAR indicates these are the initial sites, with plans to expand to additional airports ahead of World Cup 2026 and other large travel events. Specific expansion airports will be announced later.

What to Expect at the Checkpoint: Step-by-Step

1. Approach the eGate at participating checkpoints and follow screen prompts.

2. Scan/confirm your boarding pass (as directed by signage).

3. Look at the camera for a quick, real-time facial match against your ID image.

4. Green light? The gate opens and you proceed straight to physical screening.

5. Prefer not to use biometrics? Tell an officer—you’ll receive the standard ID check without penalty or loss of place.

How eGates Fit With TSA’s Broader Modernization

TSA has been evaluating biometric technologies (including facial comparison and digital IDs like mobile driver’s licenses and ID Pass) to enhance security and streamline identity checks. eGates build on these efforts by automating the front-end identity step so officers can focus on security screening.

Optional digital ID: TSA supports digital IDs at 250+ airports via approved wallets/apps. This is separate from eGates, but both aim to reduce document fraud and speed verification. You must still carry a physical acceptable ID.

FAQs (Fast Answers)

Are eGates only for CLEAR members?

CLEAR’s announcement focuses on CLEAR delivering the technology in partnership with TSA; TSA controls access and security decisions. Look for airport-specific signage and TSA guidance at pilot locations for who may use each gate at launch.

Is participation mandatory?

No. TSA confirms facial comparison is voluntary. You can opt out and receive a standard ID check with no loss of place in line.

Does TSA keep my photo?

TSA indicates photos used for checkpoint matching are not stored after a positive match, except in limited testing for performance evaluation.

What about privacy?

TSA says its biometrics efforts are grounded in privacy protections and DHS Privacy Impact Assessments; CLEAR notes it cannot override TSA, has no watchlist access, and transmits only limited data required for verification.

Will this speed things up?

That’s the goal: automated identity verification to reduce bottlenecks at the podium and scale throughput—especially ahead of World Cup 2026—while maintaining or improving security.

The Jetset Journal Take: Why This Matters for Travelers

• Shorter lines where it counts: Automating ID checks should free officers to focus on screening, potentially shortening total time to bins at busy hubs.

• Clear choices: Not into biometrics? TSA provides a clear opt-out path with no penalty.

• A platform for the future: With TSA’s digital ID and facial comparison initiatives maturing, eGates look like the next step toward streamlined, secure checkpoints.

Before You Fly Through an eGate

• Watch airport signage at ATL, DCA, SEA to see where eGates are available and who can use them at your terminal.

• Bring your physical ID even if you use a digital ID or an eGate.

• Know your options: You can always request standard ID verification if you prefer not to use facial comparison.