#USA #New York #Identity Platform #CLEAR Secure #Q3 2026

CLEAR's Q3 2026 Financial Overview

On November 4, 2026, Clear Secure, Inc. (NYSE: YOU), renowned as a secure identity company, released its financial results for Q3 2026. The report highlighted notable growth across various metrics, echoing the organization's robust expansion strategy.

Key Financial Metrics

During the third quarter, CLEAR recorded total revenue of $292.9 million, marking a 27.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Furthermore, total bookings reached $323.5 million, a 24.4% rise year-over-year, underpinning the company's successful outreach and service offerings. Operating income stood at $82.9 million, resulting in an operating margin of 28.3%.

Net income was reported at $75.3 million, representing a net margin of 25.7%—an impressive 600 basis point expansion year-over-year. Adjusted EBITDA was $103.9 million or 35.5% margin—up 490 basis points from the previous year.

Another highlight was the earnings per share, reported at $0.53 basic and $0.52 diluted, reflecting a healthier profit per share for stakeholders.

Operational Highlights

CLEAR also noted significant member growth, with total members increasing to 46.7 million, a 30.7% uptick from the previous year. Active CLEAR+ memberships grew to 8.5 million, a solid 14.5% increase—demonstrating customer loyalty and the effectiveness of CLEAR's service enhancements. As of September 30, 2026, CLEAR operated within 62 airports and 285 retail locations, providing TSA PreCheck® enrollment and expanding accessibility to members.

The addition of eGates across 53 airports is expected to further enhance operational efficiency, enabling quicker processing for travelers. Moreover, the launch of CLEAR Concierge, a personalized airport service offered at 42 airports, has received positive feedback, indicating a growing demand for premium services within the travel sector.

Settlements and Cash Allocations

The quarter also saw cash used in operating activities reported at $(98.6) million, with Free Cash Flow calculated at $(103.8) million. These figures incorporate a notable $315 million settlement related to accrued partnership liabilities. In terms of capital distribution, CLEAR returned approximately $191.4 million to its shareholders, including $20.5 million in regular dividends and $170.9 million via share repurchases. In addition, the Board authorized a $175.0 million increase to its cash dividend program, promoting further shareholder confidence.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, CLEAR projects promising growth for Q4 2026, expecting revenues to range between $299 million to $302 million, reflecting 24.8% year-over-year growth. The total bookings forecast is projected between $335-340 million, suggesting 17.6% growth compared to last year.

Caryn Seidman Becker, CEO of CLEAR, noted, “CLEAR's secure identity platform extends from homeland security to cybersecurity. With our almost 50 million Members and a robust network of partners, we enhance safety and convenience in everyday experiences. Our strong Q3 performance showcases the value CLEAR brings to its Members and partners.”

For investors and analysts interested in the detailed financial breakdown, CLEAR has scheduled a conference call to discuss these results, available through various access channels including a live webcast. Members of the press and interested parties can find more information regarding CLEAR by visiting their official website.

Conclusion

The consistent growth and expansion within CLEAR demonstrate a transformative journey in enhancing secure identity solutions while addressing rising consumer demand. As CLEAR continues to build on its successes throughout 2026, the brand's commitment to innovation in the secure identity market appears poised to make a significant impact.