Clear Adds Curbside Bag Drop at Denver Airport

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.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

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 $199 per year for individuals. Family membership starts at $199, but up to three additional adults can be added to the account for $119 each.

» Learn more: Is Clear worth the cost?

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.

» Learn more: What to know about TSA PreCheck vs. Clear

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.

How it works

Travelers can skip the bag drop lines at check-in with curbside bag drop. Here’s how it works:

1. 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. 

2. Head to the curbside location outside Door 600 West at the terminal. 

3. Show a valid government-issued ID.

4. 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.

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