Frequent travelers now have a new way to check their bags and avoid lengthy lines at Denver International Airport (DEN). After a trial run in 2022, Clear now offers curbside bag drop at Denver International Airport for Clear Plus members flying domestic with United or Delta.
Here’s what travelers need to know about curbside bag drop with Clear at DEN.
What is Clear?
Clear offers a membership program, called Clear Plus, that offers access to expedited security lines at airports and other venues.
Clear costs $189 per year for individuals. Family membership starts at $189, but up to three additional adults can be added to the account for $99 each.
If that price point is tough to stomach, there are some credit cards that come with Clear membership as a benefit. Some airline loyalty programs also offer discounts on the program, too.
At airport security checkpoints, Clear members usually have their own line, and instead of having to show traditional forms of ID like driver’s licenses, Clear members use kiosks to verify passenger identity through an eye or fingerprint scan. Then, members skip to the front of the line to do the physical screening — the part where you have to put your bags through a scanner.
Clear’s bag drop service
This new bag drop service is only available for Clear Plus members flying on domestic United Airlines or Delta Air Lines itineraries departing from DEN. Airline baggage fees will still apply and travelers with airline status will still get priority tags.
Passengers with service animals, lap infants or hazardous materials will still need to check their bags directly with the airline. Oversize luggage is accepted — like golf clubs, or skis and snowboards — with the exception of pets and firearms.
The Clear Plus bag drop operates from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. It’s located curbside on Level 6 right by the entry to the West Security Checkpoint outside Door 600 West.
Bags must be dropped off at least 60 minutes ahead of departure.
🤓Nerdy Tip
DEN has a separate free bag drop and check-in service for all passengers on 75th Avenue near the Pikes Peak Shuttle Lot and at the Transit Center. Passengers flying domestically on Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and United Airlines are eligible. You’ll have to check your bags at least 90 minutes before your departure time.
How it works
Travelers can skip the bag drop lines at check-in with curbside bag drop. Here’s how it works:
Optional: Pre-register online. You’ll need to provide your airline, flight number, departure date and time. Staff will have bag tags prepared upon arrival. Otherwise, you can do walk-up service.
Head to the curbside location outside Door 600 West at the terminal.
Show a valid government-issued ID.
Drop your bags, collect a printed boarding pass if needed and head to the Clear lane for security screening.
Whether or not travelers opt to pre-register, bags need to be checked at least one hour before departure to guarantee bags make it to the aircraft and ultimately to the final destination. Then, collect bags from the luggage carousel at the final destination as usual.
Travel cards with Clear fee credits
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card’s rates, fees, rewards and other features.
Apply now
on American Express’ website
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card’s rates, fees, rewards and other features.
Apply now
on American Express’ website
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card’s rates, fees, rewards and other features.
Annual fee
Clear benefits
$189 credit each year when paying for a Clear membership. Terms apply.
$189 credit each year when paying for a Clear membership. Terms apply.
$189 credit each year when paying for a Clear membership. Terms apply.
Still not sure?
To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
To view rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
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