Dulles testing self-service customs process

Associated Press
Published: May 14, 2008

WASHINGTON (AP) — Travelers who love going abroad — but hate the tedious customs process — may soon be able to avoid it altogether.

Dulles International Airport has been selected for a pilot program which will let U.S. citizens and others who qualify check themselves through customs at a self-service kiosk.

The domestic program is called “CLEAR” and it’s being tried out at Dulles and at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Enrollees would pay a yearly fee of $100, go through a background check and then take a biometrics test to get through the process.

The goal, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials say is quickening the customs process, which can be plagued by long lines and delays.

If successful, the international registered traveler program could be expanded nationwide.