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Not just for airports: Clear now helps you get seated faster at restaurants

Benji Stawski
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Benji Stawski is a former reporter for the site, covering all things points, miles, credit cards, travel and aviation.
Aug. 24, 2021
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3 min read
Waiter serving family in restaurant
Not just for airports: Clear now helps you get seated faster at restaurants
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Expedited security program Clear has been expanding significantly over the last few years. Not only has it added its biometric identity scanners to more airports, but you'll now find Clear at over a dozen stadiums, as well as other places, such as some Hertz car rental lanes. Then, earlier this year, it began offering digital COVID-19 vaccination and pre-travel testing verification.

Now, Clear is further expanding its offerings to include digital vaccination checks for restaurants. This news comes on the heels of major cities throughout the U.S. mandating proof of vaccination for indoor dining, including New York City, San Francisco and New Orleans.

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Clear and OpenTable have partnered to streamline vaccination checks at restaurants. Starting in September, you'll be able to link your digital vaccine card from the Clear app with your OpenTable reservations. This way, when you arrive at the restaurant, you'll be able to quickly show proof of vaccination simply by pulling up the OpenTable app and tapping the Clear button on the reservations confirmation page.

“Now more than ever, it is important that the people and experiences which make up the lifeblood of our communities safely stay open for business,” said Caryn Seidman-Becker, the CEO of Clear, in a statement. “We are proud to work with OpenTable to make it easy and safe for diners and restaurants to come back together during this time.”

The integration will be available on both OpenTable’s iPhone and Android apps. Plus, unlike Clear’s expedited security screening, which carries an annual fee, the digital vaccine card is available free of charge through the company's app.

Related: Clear expedited airport security program — is it worth it?

Although the integration isn't fully live yet, you can already set up your digital vaccine card through Clear's mobile app. Look for the "Digital vaccine card" banner on the homepage and tap "add my vaccination."

(Screenshot courtesy of Clear)

Next, you'll be asked to snap a selfie to verify your identity.

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(Screenshot courtesy of Clear)

You'll then be able to scan your vaccination card or Smart-QR code. Alternatively, you can log in to your account with vaccine providers, such as Walmart, Atlantic Health System and Rite Aid, and the proof will be linked to the app.

Related: What it’s like dining out in LA now that some restaurants require proof of vaccination

(Screenshot courtesy of Clear)

Just like that, you'll get a digital card that shows your name, photo and a QR code. As mentioned, this feature is available free of charge, making it accessible to anyone with a mobile device. That said, if you're thinking about signing up for Clear to expedite the process of getting through security at airports, there are many ways to save on your membership. In particular, you may be able to get a free membership with an eligible American Express card.

Featured image by Getty Images
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.