Not just for airports: Clear now helps you get seated faster at restaurants
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."
Next, you'll be asked to snap a selfie to verify your identity.
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
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.
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How we chose these cards
TPG featured card
Rewards
4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points on Restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery. |
4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). |
3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold card. It’s been a fan favorite during the pandemic because of its fantastic rewards rate on restaurants (that includes takeout and delivery in the U.S.!) and U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders) and up to $120 in annual dining statement credits at eligible partners, there’s no reason that the foodie shouldn’t add this card to their wallet. Enrollment required.Pros
- 4x on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1x).
- 3x on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
- Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first six months.
Cons
- Weak on travel outside of flights and everyday spending bonus categories.
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
- Few travel perks and protections.
Rewards Rate
4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points on Restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery. |
4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). |
3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. |
Intro Offer
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months.Earn 60,000 pointsAnnual Fee
$250Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.670-850Excellent/Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold card. It’s been a fan favorite during the pandemic because of its fantastic rewards rate on restaurants (that includes takeout and delivery in the U.S.!) and U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders) and up to $120 in annual dining statement credits at eligible partners, there’s no reason that the foodie shouldn’t add this card to their wallet. Enrollment required.Pros
- 4x on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1x).
- 3x on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
- Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first six months.
Cons
- Weak on travel outside of flights and everyday spending bonus categories.
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
- Few travel perks and protections.