clear retain instructions

Overview of CLEAR

CLEAR’s identity verification platform streamlines access by securely storing biometric data, allowing instant entry at airports, stadiums, and secure facilities. Users retain control over their information, with options to delete or update records, ensuring privacy while enjoying expedited experiences. !!

Eligibility Criteria

To retain CLEAR access, users must meet specific eligibility criteria that balance convenience, security, and privacy. The primary requirements include:

• Age and Residency: Applicants must be 18+, hold a valid U.S. passport or state ID, or an international passport with a U.S. visa/ESTA.
• Biometric Data: A clear facial image and fingerprint scan are required. The image must be in natural light, without sunglasses or hats.
• Identity Verification: Users must provide a government‑issued ID that matches the biometric data and is current.
• Security Clearance: Clearance requires a background check for criminal history, travel bans, or security flags.
• Consent to Terms: By enrolling, users agree to the privacy policy, data terms, and the right to delete or modify biometric data.
• Device Compatibility: The CLEAR app must be on iOS 14+ or Android 10+ to enable real‑time verification.
• Account Verification: A valid email and phone number are needed for account activation and two‑factor authentication.

Once these criteria are satisfied, users can complete the enrollment process at an authorized CLEAR location, upload their biometric data, and receive a digital pass that can be used across participating venues. The retention of this pass is governed by CLEAR’s data‑retention policy, which allows users to delete their biometric profile upon request, ensuring full control over personal information.

Users can link CLEAR to travel and event apps, ensuring a secure, consistent experience across services and integration.

Registration Process

Clearing a CLEAR account begins with a quick online sign‑up. Users enter their name, email, and a secure password, then verify the email address through a confirmation link. Afterward, the mobile app (iOS or Android) prompts for a selfie and a fingerprint scan. The selfie must be taken in natural light, face fully visible, no glasses or hats. The fingerprint is captured via the device’s sensor, ensuring high‑resolution data for matching. Once the biometric data is uploaded, the system cross‑checks it against the government‑issued ID provided during registration. If the match is successful, the user receives a digital pass that can be stored in the app and used at any CLEAR‑enabled venue. The pass is encrypted and tied to the user’s device, so it cannot be duplicated or shared; Users can also link their CLEAR account to travel and event apps, allowing seamless access across multiple platforms. If a user wishes to delete their biometric profile, they can do so through the app’s settings, which triggers a secure wipe of all stored data. The entire process is designed to be quick, secure, and privacy‑respecting, ensuring that every CLEAR user can retain control over their personal information while enjoying expedited entry at airports, stadiums, and other high‑security locations.

Document Verification

CLEAR’s document verification process is a cornerstone of its secure identity framework. After biometric enrollment, users submit a government‑issued photo ID—such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID—via the mobile app or a kiosk; The app uses OCR to extract key fields, while a verifier cross‑checks the image against the biometric data. The system flags inconsistencies, such as mismatched names or dates of birth, and prompts the user to resolve them. Users can upload multiple IDs if needed, and the platform retains a secure, encrypted copy of each document for future reference. The verification window is typically 48 hours, after which the account is flagged for re‑verification. If a user wishes to delete or replace a document, the app provides a “Remove ID” option that initiates a secure deletion protocol, ensuring no residual data remains on CLEAR’s servers. This approach balances convenience with stringent security, allowing users to retain full control over their personal information while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.

The workflow also supports real‑time updates, enabling users to refresh their ID status without leaving the app. In case of lost or stolen documents, CLEAR offers a rapid replacement protocol that includes a temporary digital pass, ensuring uninterrupted access. Users can opt for a paperless verification path, where a digital signature confirms the authenticity of the uploaded ID. All data is stored in compliance with GDPR and CCPA, with end‑to‑end encryption safeguarding every transmission. The system logs every action, providing an audit trail that can be reviewed by the user or authorized personnel. This meticulous approach ensures that every CLEAR member retains full ownership of their identity data while enjoying the benefits of a frictionless entry experience.

Digital ID Integration

Digital ID Integration is the cornerstone of CLEAR’s modern identity ecosystem, merging biometric authentication with government‑issued credentials into a single, tamper‑resistant token. When a member enrolls, the mobile app captures a high‑resolution facial scan and stores it in a secure enclave protected by hardware‑based encryption. Simultaneously, the user uploads a photo ID, which the system verifies through optical character recognition and cross‑checks against the biometric template. The integration layer then generates a cryptographically signed token that links the biometric and document data without exposing raw images. This token is stored in the user’s encrypted profile and can be presented at any CLEAR‑enabled location—airports, stadiums, or secure facilities—to trigger instant access. The token’s design adheres to ISO 18013‑2 standards for mobile travel credentials, ensuring interoperability with global security protocols. Users retain full control: the app offers a “Revoke Token” button that immediately invalidates the credential and a “Replace ID” workflow that initiates a new token generation cycle. All data exchanges are protected by TLS 1.3, and the platform logs every transaction in an immutable audit trail, accessible through the user dashboard. By combining biometric certainty with document authenticity, Digital ID Integration delivers a seamless, privacy‑preserving experience that satisfies regulatory compliance and user convenience alike. Moreover, the system supports real‑time updates, allowing members to refresh their ID status without leaving the app. In case of lost or stolen credentials, CLEAR provides a rapid replacement protocol that issues a temporary digital pass, ensuring uninterrupted access. The integration also facilitates third‑party verification, enabling partners to validate a member’s identity through a secure API, further expanding the ecosystem’s reach while maintaining strict privacy safeguards. All operations meet GDPR CCPA requirements.

Airport Usage

CLEAR’s airport integration transforms the traditional security workflow into a frictionless, biometric‑driven experience. Members enroll once, linking a high‑resolution facial scan to a government ID, creating a digital credential that can be presented at any CLEAR‑enabled airport. Upon arrival, the traveler approaches the dedicated CLEAR kiosk, where a quick facial recognition match confirms identity. The system instantly verifies the stored biometric against the live feed, bypassing the standard TSA line. Once authenticated, the traveler receives a QR code or NFC token that grants access to the expedited security lane. The process is designed to comply with TSA’s 2024 security guidelines, ensuring that the biometric data remains encrypted and never leaves the device’s secure enclave. Members can also retain control by revoking access through the app, which updates the token status in real time. If a traveler’s ID expires or is replaced, the CLEAR app initiates a seamless re‑enrollment, generating a new token without disrupting future airport visits. The platform’s audit trail logs every access event, providing both the traveler and the airport with a transparent record of movement. Additionally, CLEAR supports multi‑airport participation, allowing members to use the same credential across all participating U.S. airports, thereby eliminating the need for separate registrations. The system also offers a “Hold” feature, enabling travelers to temporarily suspend their credential during a layover, ensuring privacy while maintaining the ability to resume service upon return. This comprehensive approach to airport usage not only reduces wait times but also enhances overall security by ensuring that only verified individuals gain expedited access. The integration extends to real‑time flight status updates, allowing the app to notify users of gate changes and security lane availability, further streamlining the journey. By combining biometric certainty with document authenticity, CLEAR delivers a secure, privacy‑preserving, and highly efficient airport experience that aligns with evolving regulatory standards and passenger expectations. Moreover, the system’s backend employs zero‑knowledge proofs to verify identity without transmitting sensitive data, reinforcing trust and compliance. Users can also view real‑time analytics on their usage, such as total miles saved and time saved, fostering engagement.

Stadium Usage

CLEAR’s stadium solution is engineered to streamline fan entry while preserving privacy. Members enroll once, linking a facial scan to a government ID; the resulting digital credential is stored locally on the device and never transmitted. At the venue, a dedicated CLEAR kiosk scans the face, verifies the biometric against the encrypted local profile, and instantly issues a QR pass that opens the preferred gate. The pass is time‑stamped and tied to the specific event, preventing reuse. If a member’s ID expires, the app prompts re‑enrollment; the new credential is generated without affecting past event data. The system logs each entry in a tamper‑proof ledger, allowing the venue to audit access and the member to review history. CLEAR also offers a “Hold” feature for multi‑event tickets, enabling fans to suspend their credential during a break in the season. The app’s push notifications alert users to gate closures or security alerts, ensuring they can adjust plans. All biometric data remains on the device’s secure enclave, and CLEAR employs zero‑knowledge proofs to confirm identity without revealing raw data. The platform integrates with the venue’s ticketing API, automatically matching the QR pass to the ticket record, thereby eliminating manual checks. Fans can also view real‑time wait times for each gate, helping them choose the fastest route. The solution supports multiple stadiums nationwide, so a single credential works across all partners. By combining biometric certainty, event‑specific tokens, and privacy‑first architecture, CLEAR delivers a seamless, secure, and efficient stadium experience that aligns with modern fan expectations and regulatory requirements..

Mobile App Features

CLEAR’s mobile app is the central hub for identity management, event access, and real‑time updates, all while keeping user data strictly on the device. The app begins with a secure enrollment flow: users capture a facial image, link it to a government ID, and the biometric template is stored in the device’s secure enclave, never leaving the phone. Once enrolled, the app generates a unique, time‑bound QR code for each event or facility. When a user approaches a CLEAR kiosk, the QR code is scanned, and the kiosk verifies the embedded token against its local cache, instantly unlocking the gate without any network traffic. The QR code is refreshed automatically after each use, preventing replay attacks. The app also offers a “Hold” feature, allowing members to pause their credential for a period; the system will notify them when the hold expires and prompt re‑activation. Push notifications keep users informed of gate status, security alerts, and any changes to their event schedule. A built‑in calendar sync shows upcoming events and automatically updates the QR code as the event time approaches; Users can view a detailed audit log of all entries, including timestamps and gate locations, ensuring transparency. The app’s settings allow users to delete their biometric data at any time, which instantly revokes all pending credentials. For added convenience, the app supports biometric unlock on the device itself, so users can access their CLEAR profile with a face scan or fingerprint, eliminating the need for passwords. All communications between the app and CLEAR servers are encrypted with TLS 1.3, and the app employs end‑to‑end encryption for any data stored in the cloud, such as ticket purchases or loyalty points. The user interface is designed for quick navigation: a home screen displays the next upcoming event, a “My Credentials” section lists all active QR codes, and a “Help” tab provides troubleshooting steps and contact options. The app also integrates with the venue’s ticketing system, allowing users to purchase or transfer tickets directly within the app, with the new ticket automatically generating a fresh QR code. Finally, the app’s “Privacy Settings” let users toggle which data is shared with partners, ensuring compliance with GDPR and other privacy regulations. This comprehensive suite of features ensures that every interaction—from enrollment to exit—is secure, private, and frictionless, making the CLEAR experience truly seamless across airports, stadiums, and other high‑traffic venues.

Security Measures

CLEAR employs a layered defense strategy that prioritizes user privacy while ensuring robust protection against unauthorized access. At the core is a zero‑knowledge biometric model: facial templates are hashed, salted, and stored only within secure enclaves on the user’s device, never transmitted to the cloud. When a user approaches a CLEAR kiosk, the device performs an on‑device match against the local hash, generating a short‑lived token that is signed with a device‑specific key. The kiosk verifies the signature against a distributed ledger of active keys, allowing instant gate unlock without any network dependency. All data exchanges between the app and CLEAR servers use TLS 1.3 with forward secrecy, and the servers themselves run on hardened, air‑gapped infrastructure with immutable audit logs; To mitigate replay attacks, each token includes a nonce and a timestamp, and the server rejects any token older than five minutes. The system also incorporates anomaly detection: if a token is used outside the expected geographic radius or time window, an alert is triggered and the user is prompted to re‑authenticate. For additional resilience, CLEAR’s architecture is built on a microservices model with strict role‑based access controls and continuous penetration testing. Users can revoke their credentials instantly via the app, which sends a signed revocation request to the central service; the service propagates the revocation to all edge devices within seconds. Finally, CLEAR complies with GDPR, CCPA, and ISO 27001, providing transparent data retention policies and allowing users to delete their biometric data permanently, ensuring that no trace remains in any system. This comprehensive security framework guarantees that every interaction—whether at an airport, stadium, or secure facility is protected by state‑of‑the‑art cryptography, rigorous access controls, and continuous monitoring. Security matters!!

Privacy Policy

CLEAR’s privacy policy centers on user control and data retention. All biometric data are stored locally and never uploaded to a central server. CLEAR’s digital ID integration ensures authentication across airports, stadiums secure facilities.!! The system remains fully compliant with all applicable regulations, ensuring that every user interaction is protected by advanced cryptographic safeguards and continuous monitoring, thereby fostering trust and confidence across all platforms. By using CLEAR, users acknowledge that they have read and understood this privacy policy, and they consent to the described data practices. Privacy matters!!

Customer Support

CLEAR’s customer support for retain instructions is available 24/7 through multiple channels. Users can reach out via the dedicated support portal, email, or phone line. The support portal offers a knowledge base with step‑by‑step guides on how to retain, update, or delete biometric data, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. Live chat agents are trained to handle queries about data retention policies, explaining how local storage works and how data is protected using end‑to‑end encryption. For urgent issues, a priority hotline is available, and support staff can walk users through the process of revoking consent or requesting a data export. All interactions are logged securely, and users receive confirmation emails summarizing any changes made. The support team also monitors feedback to refine the retain instructions process, ensuring clarity and transparency for every user. If a user encounters tech difficulties, the support team offers step‑by‑step troubleshooting guides, and a live agent can schedule a remote session to resolve complex issues. For privacy‑related inquiries, users can request a detailed audit of their data handling, and the support team will provide a concise report within 48 hours, reinforcing transparency. All support interactions are recorded in an encrypted log that can be accessed by the user at any time, ensuring accountability and fostering confidence in the system. Users can opt to receive updates on support features ensuring they benefit from enhancements. !!

Pricing and Plans

CLEAR’s retain‑instruction pricing is structured to accommodate both individual users and institutional partners. Individual members can access basic retention features for free, allowing them to store, view, and delete biometric identifiers with no cost. For users requiring advanced control—such as scheduled data purges, audit logs, or multi‑factor consent management, a Premium tier is available at $9.99 per month. This tier includes priority support, detailed retention analytics, and the ability to export data in compliant formats.

Institutional plans are tiered by user count and data volume. A Small‑Business package starts at $199 per month for up to 50 users, offering full retention governance and API access for automated compliance checks. Medium‑Enterprise plans begin at $499 per month for 200 users, adding custom retention schedules and quarterly compliance reports. Large‑Enterprise solutions are negotiated individually, providing unlimited users and on‑premise data hosting options.

All plans include GDPR‑aligned data‑retention policies, and the option to request a complete data export or permanent deletion at any time. Users can upgrade or downgrade at any billing cycle, with prorated adjustments applied automatically. No hidden fees are charged for data transfers or support beyond the included limits. Payment is processed securely via major credit cards or corporate invoicing, and invoices are available in PDF format for audit purposes. All data safe

Troubleshooting

When encountering issues with CLEAR’s retain‑instruction feature, follow these steps:

• Verify Account Status: Ensure your account is active and the retain plan is enabled. Check the dashboard for any pending verification or payment alerts.
• Check Biometric Sync: If a biometric record fails to update, re‑capture the data using the CLEAR app or kiosk. Make sure lighting and positioning meet the guidelines.
• Review Retention Settings: Navigate to Settings > Retention. Confirm that the desired retention period is set and that no conflicting schedules exist.
• Inspect API Logs: For developers, examine the API response codes. A 400 series error indicates a malformed request; a 500 series error signals server‑side issues.
• Clear Cache and Cookies: On web portals, clear local storage to remove stale tokens that may block retention actions.
• Contact Support: If problems persist, open a ticket via the Help Center. Provide the user ID, timestamp, and a screenshot of the error message.

Typical resolutions include re‑authentication, updating biometric data, or resetting the retention schedule. For large‑scale deployments, consult the enterprise support team for bulk‑operation troubleshooting.

If you encounter any other issues, consult the CLEAR knowledge base or community forums for additional troubleshooting tips. Remember to keep your biometric data up to date for seamless access.

FAQs

Below are common questions about CLEAR’s retain‑instruction feature. These answers focus solely on how to retain, modify, or delete your biometric and personal data within the CLEAR ecosystem.

• What is the retain‑instruction feature? It allows users to specify how long their biometric data and identity records are stored, ensuring compliance with privacy preferences.
• How do I enable data retention? Log into the app, go to Settings → Retention, and toggle the “Enable Retention” switch. Choose a duration (30, 90, 180 days, or custom).
• Can I change the retention period after it’s set? Yes. Navigate to the same Retention menu and adjust the days. The change takes effect immediately.
• What happens when the retention period expires? The system automatically archives the data. Archived records can be restored within 30 days if needed.
• How do I permanently delete my data? In Settings → Privacy, select “Delete All Data.” Confirm the action; the deletion is irreversible and will remove all biometric and identity records.
• Will the data be shared with third parties? No. CLEAR’s policy restricts sharing to authorized partners only for security purposes, and only when you consent.
• Is the retention feature available on all devices? It is supported on iOS, Android, and web portals. Ensure your app is updated to the latest version.
• What if I encounter an error during retention setup? Check your internet connection, clear app cache, and retry. If the issue persists, contact support via the help icon.
• Can I audit my retention history? Yes. In the app, view the “Retention Log” to see timestamps of changes and expirations.
• Does retention affect CLEAR’s speed? No. Retention settings operate in the background and do not impact access times.

For further assistance, refer to the online help center or reach out to CLEAR support.

Contact CLEAR support for personalized guidance on data retention settings.

Follow these steps to keep your data safe while you travel!!

Future Developments

Looking ahead, CLEAR plans to expand its retain‑instruction framework to accommodate evolving privacy standards and user demands. Upcoming updates will introduce granular control over data lifecycle, enabling users to set retention windows for specific data types—biometric templates, travel logs, and transactional records—individually. The platform will also provide an audit trail feature, automatically generating a timestamped log of every retention change, deletion, or archival event. This transparency will help users verify compliance with regulations such as GDPR and CCPA, and will support internal audits for corporate partners. In addition, CLEAR is exploring integration with decentralized identity wallets. By leveraging blockchain‑based verifiable credentials, users could store retention preferences off‑chain while the platform verifies authenticity on‑chain, reducing reliance on centralized servers. This approach promises enhanced resilience against data breaches and offers a tamper‑evident record of retention decisions. Another key development is the introduction of machine‑learning‑driven retention recommendations. The system will analyze usage patterns, travel frequency, and regulatory changes to suggest optimal retention periods automatically, while still allowing manual override. Users will receive notifications when recommended periods expire, prompting timely action to avoid accidental data loss. Finally, CLEAR will extend its retain‑instruction API to third‑party services, allowing partners to request retention status or enforce custom retention policies through secure, authenticated calls; This will facilitate seamless integration with airline booking engines, event ticketing platforms, and corporate security systems, ensuring consistent data handling across ecosystems. These enhancements aim to empower users with unprecedented control, foster trust through auditability, and position CLEAR as a leader in privacy‑first identity verification.