Ready to elevate your travel experience? Imagine stepping into a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of a busy airport, where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy complimentary refreshments before your flight. That's the power of Priority Pass, and if you're an American Express cardholder, you might be eligible for this fantastic perk!
This lengthy guide will walk you through every single step of signing up for American Express Priority Pass, ensuring you unlock this valuable travel benefit with ease. Let's get started!
Step 1: Discover Your Eligibility – Is Your Amex Card a Golden Ticket?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of enrollment, the very first thing you need to do is confirm if your American Express card actually offers Priority Pass membership. Not all Amex cards come with this benefit.
Are you wondering which cards typically include Priority Pass? Generally, it's the premium travel-focused cards. The most common ones that offer Priority Pass Select membership (often with unlimited complimentary visits for the primary cardmember and a guest) include:
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The Platinum Card® from American Express: This is the most well-known card for robust lounge access, including Priority Pass.
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The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: The business counterpart also offers excellent lounge benefits.
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Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: While primarily focused on Delta Sky Club access, this card often includes a Priority Pass Select membership.
How to confirm your eligibility:
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Check Your Card Benefits Guide: When you received your American Express card, it likely came with a "Guide to Benefits" or similar document. This is your definitive source for confirming all the perks associated with your specific card.
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Log In to Your Amex Online Account: This is often the quickest and easiest way.
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Go to the American Express website and log in to your account.
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Navigate to the "Benefits & Rewards" or "Card Benefits" section for your specific card.
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Look for anything related to "Airport Lounge Access," "Global Lounge Collection," or specifically "Priority Pass."
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Call American Express Customer Service: If you're unsure or can't find the information online, simply call the customer service number on the back of your American Express card. A representative will be able to confirm your Priority Pass eligibility and guide you further.
Once you've confirmed your card offers Priority Pass, you're ready to proceed to the next exciting step!
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| How Do I Sign Up For American Express Priority Pass |
Step 2: Initiating Your Priority Pass Enrollment – Online or By Phone
With your eligibility confirmed, it's time to actually enroll in the Priority Pass program. American Express typically offers a couple of straightforward methods for this.
Sub-heading: Online Enrollment (The Most Common Method)
Many American Express cardholders can initiate their Priority Pass enrollment directly through their online account.
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Log In to Your American Express Account:
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Open your web browser and go to the official American Express website for your region (e.g., americanexpress.com for the US).
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Enter your User ID and Password to log in.
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Navigate to the Benefits Section:
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Once logged in, ensure you've selected the correct eligible American Express card if you have multiple cards. You'll usually see your cards listed at the top or on a dashboard.
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Look for a section titled "Benefits" or "Rewards & Benefits" or "Card Benefits." This is usually a prominent tab or link.
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Find the Priority Pass Benefit:
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Within the benefits section, you'll likely see various categories like "Travel," "Shopping," "Dining," etc. Click on "Travel."
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Under "Travel," you should find a specific benefit related to "Airport Lounge Access" or "Global Lounge Collection." Look for a link or button that says "Enroll in Priority Pass Select" or "Activate Priority Pass."
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Pro-tip: Some users have reported finding their Priority Pass enrollment link under a "Memberships" tab within the Amex app or online portal.
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Follow the On-Screen Prompts:
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Clicking the enrollment link will typically redirect you to a secure American Express or co-branded Priority Pass enrollment page.
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You may be asked to confirm your personal details, such as your name, address, and email. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your American Express account details.
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Some systems may auto-populate this information, while others require you to input it.
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You might be prompted to agree to the Priority Pass Terms and Conditions. It's always a good idea to read these carefully, especially regarding guest policies and any potential fees for additional guests.
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Complete any final steps as instructed on the page. You should receive a confirmation message that your enrollment request has been submitted.
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Sub-heading: Enrollment by Phone (A Reliable Alternative)
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
If you prefer speaking to someone or encounter any issues with the online enrollment, calling American Express customer service is an excellent option.
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Locate Your Amex Customer Service Number: The easiest way is to look for the customer service number on the back of your American Express card.
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Call and State Your Intent:
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Dial the number.
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Once connected to a representative (or after navigating automated menus), clearly state that you wish to "enroll in Priority Pass Select" for your eligible American Express card.
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Provide Necessary Information: The representative will guide you through the process, asking for your card details and verifying your identity. They will input your information directly into the system for enrollment.
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Confirm and Note Down Details: Before ending the call, confirm that the enrollment has been successfully initiated. Ask if there's any reference number for your application and inquire about the expected timeline for receiving your Priority Pass card.
Important Note: If you have authorized users on your eligible American Express card, they will often need to enroll in Priority Pass separately. The primary cardholder's enrollment doesn't automatically cover supplementary cardholders. They should follow the same steps (online or by phone) using their own American Express supplementary card details.
Step 3: Awaiting Your Priority Pass Membership – Patience is a Virtue!
Once you've successfully enrolled, the waiting game begins. It's important to set realistic expectations for when you'll receive your physical Priority Pass card.
Sub-heading: The Waiting Period
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General Timeline: Most sources indicate that it takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks for the physical Priority Pass card and membership package to arrive in the mail. In some cases, it might be quicker, but it's best to plan ahead, especially if you have an upcoming trip.
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No Expedited Delivery: Generally, Priority Pass card applications cannot be expedited. This is a common policy, so factor it into your travel plans.
Sub-heading: Your Digital Membership Card (A Faster Alternative!)
While you wait for the physical card, there's good news! You can often get immediate or near-immediate access to a digital Priority Pass membership card. This is incredibly useful for immediate lounge access.
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Look for an Email Confirmation: After enrollment, keep an eye on your email inbox (and spam/junk folders!). American Express or Priority Pass may send you an email containing your Priority Pass membership number and/or instructions on how to access your digital card.
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Download the Priority Pass App:
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Go to your smartphone's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
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Search for "Priority Pass."
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Download and install the official Priority Pass app.
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Register for an Online Account/Log In:
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Open the Priority Pass app.
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If you're a new user, you'll need to register for an online account using your Priority Pass membership number (which you might have received via email or from Amex customer service).
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If you already have an online account from a previous Priority Pass membership, simply log in.
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You might be asked for the last four digits of your eligible American Express card for verification.
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Access Your Digital Card: Once logged in, your digital membership card, usually with a QR code or barcode, will be available within the app.
Remember: While many lounges accept the digital card, it's wise to carry your physical card if you have it, as some lounges may still require it. Always check the specific lounge's policy if you can.
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Step 4: Enjoying Your Lounge Access – The Perks of Priority Pass!
Congratulations! You've successfully enrolled and now possess your Priority Pass membership. Here's how to make the most of it.
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
Sub-heading: Finding Participating Lounges
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Priority Pass Website: The official Priority Pass website (prioritypass.com) is your comprehensive resource for finding lounges. You can search by airport, city, or even lounge name.
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Priority Pass Mobile App: The app is incredibly convenient as it can use your location to show nearby lounges, filter by amenities, and even provide directions within the airport.
Sub-heading: Gaining Entry to a Lounge
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Present Your Priority Pass Card: At the lounge reception, present your physical Priority Pass card or your digital membership card from the app.
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Show Your Boarding Pass: You will also need to show a valid boarding pass for a departing flight on the same day. The airline and class of service usually don't matter.
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Show Photo ID: Be prepared to show a government-issued photo ID (like your passport or national ID) for verification.
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Guest Policy Awareness:
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Many American Express Platinum and Reserve cards include complimentary guest access (often one guest). Be aware of your specific card's guest policy.
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If you bring additional guests beyond your complimentary allowance, you will be charged a per-person, per-visit fee (currently around US$35, but subject to change) to your linked American Express card. The lounge staff will typically ask you to sign a receipt for any guest charges.
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Sub-heading: What to Expect Inside the Lounge
Priority Pass lounges vary greatly in amenities and quality, but generally, you can expect:
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Complimentary snacks and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
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Comfortable seating and a quieter environment
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Free Wi-Fi
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Power outlets for charging devices
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Sometimes showers, business facilities, or other unique amenities
Step 5: Managing Your Membership & Staying Informed
Your Priority Pass membership is tied to your eligible American Express card, so managing it is relatively straightforward.
Sub-heading: Online Account Management
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Priority Pass Website/App: You can log in to your Priority Pass account on their website or app to:
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View your membership details.
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Update personal information.
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See your visit history (if applicable).
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Find lounge information and reviews.
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American Express Account: Keep your American Express account details up-to-date, especially your billing address, as your Priority Pass card will be sent to that address.
Sub-heading: Membership Renewal and Cancellation
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Automatic Renewal: As long as your eligible American Express card account remains active and in good standing, your Priority Pass Select membership typically renews automatically.
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Cancellation: If you cancel your eligible American Express card, your Priority Pass membership associated with that card will also be canceled. If you wish to retain Priority Pass, you would need to enroll through another eligible card or purchase a direct membership.
Remember to always check the most current terms and conditions provided by American Express and Priority Pass, as policies regarding lounge access, guest fees, and other benefits can change.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
Frequently Asked Questions about American Express Priority Pass
Here are 10 common questions with quick answers to help you navigate your American Express Priority Pass benefit:
How to know if my American Express card offers Priority Pass?
You can check your "Guide to Benefits" that came with your card, log in to your Amex online account and look under "Benefits," or call Amex customer service.
How to enroll in Priority Pass with American Express online?
Log in to your American Express account, navigate to the "Benefits" or "Card Benefits" section for your eligible card, and look for the "Enroll in Priority Pass Select" link. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete enrollment.
How to get a digital Priority Pass card immediately after enrollment?
After enrolling, check your email for a membership number. Then, download the official Priority Pass app, register with your membership number, and your digital card will be available in the app.
How to use the Priority Pass digital card at a lounge?
Open the Priority Pass app, go to your digital card, and present the QR code or barcode to the lounge attendant along with your boarding pass and photo ID.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
How to add guests to my American Express Priority Pass membership?
Your American Express Priority Pass Select membership typically allows the primary cardholder and one guest complimentary access. Additional guests usually incur a per-visit fee (charged to your Amex card). Supplementary cardmembers must enroll separately for their own Priority Pass.
How to find participating Priority Pass lounges near me?
Use the official Priority Pass website (prioritypass.com) or the Priority Pass mobile app. Both allow you to search for lounges by airport, city, or even use your location.
How to replace a lost or stolen American Express Priority Pass card?
You can usually request a replacement card by contacting Priority Pass directly (via their website help section or customer service number) or by calling American Express customer service.
How to activate my Priority Pass card from American Express?
Often, your Priority Pass card is activated automatically upon receipt. However, you might be prompted to activate it online at
How to check how many complimentary Priority Pass visits I have left?
If your Amex card has a limited number of visits, you can usually track this by logging into your Priority Pass online account or contacting Priority Pass customer service. For unlimited access, this isn't a concern.
How to contact Priority Pass customer service for issues with lounge access?
You can find Priority Pass customer service contact information (phone numbers and webforms) on the Priority Pass website under their "Help & Support" or "Contact Us" sections.
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