Imagine this: You've just arrived at the airport, bags in hand, a long layover stretching before you. The thought of jostling for a seat at a crowded gate, paying exorbitant prices for mediocre coffee, and struggling to find a power outlet fills you with dread. But what if there was another way? What if you could escape the chaos and step into a serene oasis, complete with complimentary food and drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating? That, my friend, is the magic of an airport lounge, and with an American Express Priority Pass, it can be your reality.
Getting your American Express Priority Pass is a fantastic way to elevate your travel experience, transforming those stressful airport waits into moments of relaxation and productivity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you unlock this valuable perk with ease.
Your Passport to Peace: How to Get Your American Express Priority Pass
The most common and advantageous way to acquire a Priority Pass membership through American Express is by holding certain premium American Express credit cards. These cards often come with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which is the most feature-rich tier, offering unlimited (or a generous number of) lounge visits.
Step 1: Discover If You're Eligible – Are You Already a Member Without Knowing It?
Before you do anything else, the very first step is to check your existing American Express cards. Many high-end American Express cards automatically include a Priority Pass Select membership as a benefit. You might already be eligible without even realizing it!
Action: Take out your American Express cards.
Look For: Cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, or certain American Express Centurion Cards are well-known for offering this perk. While the American Express® Gold Card in some regions may offer a limited number of visits, the Platinum and Centurion cards are your best bet for a robust Priority Pass benefit.
If you're unsure: Head to the American Express website for your specific card or call the customer service number on the back of your card. Simply ask, "Does my [Card Name] come with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership?"
Pro Tip: Even if you have an eligible card, you still need to enroll in the Priority Pass program. It's not automatically activated upon card approval.
Step 2: Enroll in Priority Pass Through American Express – Your Gateway to Lounges
Once you've confirmed your eligibility, the next crucial step is to enroll. This isn't done directly on the Priority Pass website if you're getting it through Amex; it's initiated through your American Express account.
Sub-heading 2.1: Online Enrollment – The Easiest Path
The most convenient way to enroll is usually through your American Express online account.
Log In to Your American Express Account: Go to the official American Express website (americanexpress.com) and log in to your card account.
Navigate to Benefits: Look for a section related to "Benefits," "Travel Benefits," or "Lounge Access" for your specific card. This is often found under a "Membership" or "My Account" tab.
Find the Priority Pass Link: Within the benefits section, you should see a clear link or option for "Priority Pass Select" or "Global Lounge Collection." Click on this.
Initiate Enrollment: Follow the prompts to begin the enrollment process. You may be redirected to a co-branded American Express/Priority Pass page.
Confirm Details: Verify your personal information and confirm your request for the Priority Pass membership.
Sub-heading 2.2: Phone Enrollment – For a Personal Touch
If you prefer speaking to someone or encounter any issues online, you can always enroll by phone.
Call American Express Customer Service: Dial the customer service number located on the back of your American Express card.
Request Priority Pass Enrollment: Inform the representative that you wish to enroll in the complimentary Priority Pass Select membership associated with your card.
Provide Information: The representative will guide you through the process, verifying your details and submitting your enrollment request.
Important Note: Allow for processing time. American Express will typically send your enrollment information to Priority Pass. You should receive your physical Priority Pass card and membership package within 4-6 weeks.
Step 3: Activate Your Priority Pass Account – Unlocking Digital Access
Once Priority Pass has processed your enrollment, they will send you a welcome package, which includes your physical Priority Pass card. However, you can often gain digital access even before the physical card arrives.
Receive Your Membership Number/Invitation Code: This will usually come via email shortly after your enrollment is processed by Amex, or it will be included in your physical welcome package.
Go to the Priority Pass Activation Page: Visit prioritypass.com and look for an "Activate Your Account" or "Member Activation" link.
Enter Your Details: You'll be asked to enter your Priority Pass membership number or invitation code. For some programs, you might need to enter your associated American Express card details.
Create Your Login Credentials: Set up a username and password for your Priority Pass online account. This will allow you to access the Priority Pass website and app.
Download the Priority Pass App: Search for "Priority Pass" in your smartphone's app store (iOS and Android). Download and install the app.
Log In to the App: Use your newly created Priority Pass username and password to log in. You'll then be able to access your Digital Membership Card.
Key Benefit: The Digital Membership Card in the app is incredibly useful. In many lounges, you can simply present this digital card along with your boarding pass and a valid ID for entry, eliminating the need to carry the physical card.
Step 4: Understanding and Utilizing Your Priority Pass Benefits – Maximizing Your Lounging Experience
Now that you have your Priority Pass, it's time to understand how to make the most of it.
Sub-heading 4.1: Finding Participating Lounges
Priority Pass Website & App: The most reliable way to find lounges is through the official Priority Pass website or, even better, their mobile app.
Search Filters: The app allows you to search for lounges by airport, terminal, amenities (like Wi-Fi, showers, food, etc.), and even pre-book a spot in select lounges.
Check Opening Hours: Always verify the lounge's operating hours before you plan your visit, as they can vary.
Sub-heading 4.2: Lounge Access Requirements
When you arrive at a participating lounge, you'll generally need:
Your Priority Pass Card (physical or digital): This is your key to entry.
A Valid Boarding Pass: This must be for same-day travel.
A Government-Issued ID: Such as your passport or driver's license.
Sub-heading 4.3: Guest Policy – Bringing Company Along
American Express Priority Pass benefits often include complimentary guest access. However, the exact number of complimentary guests can vary by the specific American Express card you hold.
The Platinum Card® from American Express: Typically allows for two complimentary guests per visit. Additional guests usually incur a fee (around $35 USD per person per visit, charged to your Amex card).
Check Your Specific Card's Terms: Always refer to the terms and conditions of your particular American Express card's Priority Pass benefit for the most accurate and up-to-date guest policy. This information is available on the Amex website or by calling customer service.
Sub-heading 4.4: What to Expect Inside the Lounge
While amenities vary, most Priority Pass lounges offer:
Comfortable Seating: A welcome respite from crowded terminals.
Complimentary Food & Beverages: Often includes light meals, snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages (local regulations may apply).
Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected or getting work done.
Power Outlets: To charge your devices.
Other Amenities: Some lounges may offer showers, business facilities, newspapers/magazines, and even spa services.
Remember: Lounge access is subject to space availability. During peak travel times, lounges can get busy, and you might experience a short wait or even be denied entry if the lounge is at capacity.
Step 5: Beyond Lounges – Exploring Additional Benefits
Priority Pass isn't just about lounges anymore. The program has expanded to include various "airport experiences."
Restaurant Credits: At some airports, if there isn't a traditional lounge, Priority Pass may offer a credit towards meals at participating airport restaurants.
Spa Discounts & Experiences: Select locations may offer discounts or even complimentary access to airport spas or wellness services.
Retail Discounts: Certain duty-free shops or airport retailers might offer discounts to Priority Pass members.
Always check the Priority Pass app for the most current list of participating airport experiences beyond traditional lounges. This can add significant value to your membership, especially if you're in an airport without a lounge or prefer a different type of experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a complimentary Priority Pass with an American Express card?
You typically get a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership by holding premium American Express cards like The Platinum Card® or The Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment is usually required through your Amex online account or by calling customer service.
How to activate my American Express Priority Pass membership?
Once enrolled by American Express, you'll receive a Priority Pass membership number. Use this number to activate your account on the Priority Pass website (
How to find participating Priority Pass lounges at an airport?
You can find participating lounges using the official Priority Pass website or, more conveniently, the Priority Pass mobile app. Search by airport code or city to see available lounges, their locations, amenities, and operating hours.
How to use my American Express Priority Pass at an airport lounge?
Present your physical Priority Pass card or your Digital Membership Card from the Priority Pass app, along with a valid same-day boarding pass and a government-issued ID, to the lounge reception for entry.
How to bring guests into a Priority Pass lounge with my American Express card?
The guest policy varies by American Express card. The Platinum Card® typically allows two complimentary guests. Any additional guests beyond your complimentary allowance will usually incur a fee (e.g., $35 USD per person), which will be charged to your linked American Express card. Always check your specific card's terms.
How to check how many complimentary lounge visits I have left?
If your Priority Pass membership has a limited number of complimentary visits, you can usually track your remaining visits by logging into your account on the Priority Pass website or through the "Account" or "My Priority Pass" section of the Priority Pass mobile app.
How to know if my American Express card offers Priority Pass?
The easiest way is to check the benefits section of your American Express card's webpage on the American Express website or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card and inquiring directly.
How to get a digital Priority Pass card?
After activating your Priority Pass account online, download the Priority Pass mobile app. Log in with your new credentials, and your Digital Membership Card will be available within the app, often with a scannable QR code.
How to determine if a Priority Pass lounge is crowded before visiting?
While there's no real-time occupancy tracker for most lounges, the Priority Pass app sometimes provides indicators or allows for pre-booking at select locations, which can give you an idea of potential capacity. During peak travel times, assume lounges might be busy.
How to deal with an issue accessing a Priority Pass lounge?
If you encounter an issue, first verify you have all required documents (physical/digital card, boarding pass, ID). If the problem persists, politely ask the lounge staff for clarification. If it's a membership issue, contact American Express customer service or Priority Pass member services directly.
