Does Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Have CLEAR? A Local Guide for ATL Travelers
Yes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) does have CLEAR. If you live in Atlanta, fly through ATL often, or are visiting and want a faster security experience, CLEAR is available in multiple concourses and works alongside TSA PreCheck.
Below is a clear breakdown of where to find CLEAR at ATL, how it works specifically at Atlanta’s airport, and what to expect when you use it.
What Is CLEAR and How Does It Work at ATL?
CLEAR is an identity verification program that uses your fingerprints or iris scan instead of a physical ID to confirm who you are at the airport.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport:
- CLEAR replaces the ID check step at security.
- You still go through the regular TSA security screening (metal detector, X-ray, etc.).
- If you also have TSA PreCheck, CLEAR agents will typically direct you to the PreCheck screening lane, which is usually faster than standard.
For Atlanta-based travelers who fly often, this can save time during busy periods at ATL, especially in the mornings and evenings when security lines are longest.
Where Is CLEAR Located at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson?
CLEAR operates at both main security checkpoints used by most travelers:
1. Main Security Checkpoint (Domestic Terminal – North & South)
Most Atlanta residents and visitors enter the airport through the Domestic Terminal. CLEAR is available at:
- North Security Checkpoint
- South Security Checkpoint
CLEAR lanes are typically marked with bright blue signage near the normal TSA lines. CLEAR agents will walk you through the process and escort you to the appropriate screening lane.
2. CLEAR in the International Terminal (Concourse F)
If you’re departing from the Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, CLEAR is generally available at the security area serving Concourse F.
However, many international flights from Atlanta still depart from domestic concourses (A–E), so a lot of international travelers use domestic CLEAR lanes and then ride the Plane Train to their gate.
Using CLEAR at ATL: Step-by-Step
If you’re flying out of Atlanta and want to use CLEAR, here’s what your visit will usually look like:
Arrive at the airport
- For most domestic flights, Atlanta travelers often arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure.
- For international departures from ATL, many give themselves 2–3 hours. CLEAR can help, but it’s not a guarantee you can cut timing too close.
Head to a security checkpoint with CLEAR
- Domestic Terminal: North or South checkpoint
- International Terminal: Security at Concourse F
Go to the CLEAR lane
- A CLEAR ambassador will guide you to the kiosk.
- You’ll scan your fingerprints or eyes and confirm your boarding pass.
Skip the ID check line
- After CLEAR verifies your identity, an agent will escort you directly to the front of the TSA screening line (standard or PreCheck, depending on what you have).
Complete TSA security screening
- You still go through the same screening process as everyone else.
CLEAR vs. TSA PreCheck at Atlanta’s Airport
Many Atlanta travelers wonder whether they need CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, or both. Here’s how they compare at ATL:
| Program | What It Does at ATL | Where It Helps Most at ATL |
|---|---|---|
| CLEAR | Replaces ID check with biometric verification | Bypassing long ID lines at security |
| TSA PreCheck | Speeds up the bag & body screening process | Shorter lines, shoes stay on, simpler prep |
| Both Together | Fast ID check + fast screening lane | Often the quickest full experience at ATL |
Many frequent Atlanta flyers use both, especially because ATL is one of the busiest airports in the world and can have long lines during peak times.
Where CLEAR Works Best at ATL for Local Travelers
If you live in metro Atlanta and use ATL regularly, CLEAR is often most useful:
- Early-morning departures (6–9 a.m.): Heavy business travel and commuter flights.
- Sunday evenings and Monday mornings: Popular return and departure times.
- Holiday and game weekends: Traffic can spike when major events are happening in the city.
CLEAR won’t eliminate all waiting, but at busy ATL checkpoints, it can significantly cut down the time you spend just getting to the screening belt.
How to Enroll in CLEAR at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson
You can start enrollment online, but you must finish enrollment in person at an airport with a CLEAR location, such as ATL.
Enrolling in Person at ATL
To enroll at Hartsfield-Jackson:
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID
Commonly used:- State driver’s license
- U.S. passport
- Permanent resident card (if eligible)
Find a CLEAR enrollment pod or kiosk
These are usually near the CLEAR lanes at:- North Security Checkpoint (Domestic Terminal)
- South Security Checkpoint (Domestic Terminal)
- Sometimes in or near the International Terminal (Concourse F)
Provide biometric data
- Fingerprints
- Iris scan
- Basic personal information
Confirm your membership
Once approved, you can use CLEAR immediately at ATL and other participating airports.
Tips for Using CLEAR Efficiently at ATL
For Atlanta-based or frequent ATL travelers, a few practical tips:
Choose your entrance wisely
- If you’re flying Delta, you’ll likely use the South Terminal; CLEAR is available there.
- Other airlines may use the North Terminal, where CLEAR is also present.
Still allow a buffer during peak times
CLEAR moves you through part of the process faster, but you can still encounter:- Longer screening lines
- Additional bag checks
Combine CLEAR with PreCheck if you fly a lot
Many regular ATL travelers find the combo most valuable:- CLEAR saves time at the ID stage
- PreCheck saves time at the screening stage
Keep your ID handy anyway
Technology or system issues are rare but possible. Having your ID ready is still wise when flying out of Atlanta.
Does CLEAR Work for All Flights Out of ATL?
CLEAR at Hartsfield-Jackson works for:
- Most domestic flights from the Domestic Terminal
- Many international departures, especially if you clear security at:
- Domestic North or South checkpoints, then ride the Plane Train
- The International Terminal (Concourse F) where CLEAR operates
You’ll use CLEAR before TSA, regardless of airline or destination, as long as you’re departing through a terminal that has CLEAR lanes.
Helpful ATL Airport Details for CLEAR Users
Here are a few key details Atlanta travelers often find useful:
Airport Name: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Domestic Terminal Address:
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320International Terminal Address (Concourse F):
2600 Maynard H. Jackson Jr. Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30354General Airport Information Line:
Typically available through the airport’s main customer service number or information desks inside both terminals.
CLEAR staff are usually stationed at or near the security checkpoints, and you can ask them questions directly about where to go and how to enroll.
In summary, yes, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson does have CLEAR, and it’s set up at the main security checkpoints Atlanta residents and visitors use most. If you fly in or out of ATL regularly—especially during busy times—CLEAR can be a practical way to move through security faster while navigating one of the busiest airports in the world.