The Ultimate Guide to Activating Your Priority Pass on the American Express Platinum Card
Are you ready to unlock a world of travel luxury? The American Express Platinum Card is more than just a credit card; it's a key to a premium travel experience. One of its most coveted benefits is complimentary access to the Priority Pass Select program, giving you and a guest access to thousands of airport lounges worldwide. But this benefit isn't automatic—you need to enroll and activate it first.
Don't worry, the process is straightforward. We'll walk you through every step, from enrollment to getting your physical and digital cards, so you can start relaxing in style on your next trip. Let's get started!
Step 1: Enrollment is the First Class Ticket
This is the most crucial step! Your Priority Pass Select membership is an opt-in benefit, not something that's automatically given to you. Think of it as a special invitation you need to accept.
Option A: The Online Method
This is often the quickest and easiest way to enroll.
Log into your American Express online account. If you haven't already, create an online account and register your Platinum Card.
Navigate to the "Benefits & Rewards" section. This section of your account is where you'll find all the fantastic perks that come with your card.
Find the "American Express Global Lounge Collection" benefit. The Priority Pass Select benefit is a part of this larger collection. You might have to scroll down a bit, as the Platinum Card has many benefits!
Click the "Enroll" or "Activate Now" button. You'll be taken to a page to complete your enrollment. This process typically involves confirming your personal details.
Complete the enrollment. Follow the on-screen prompts. Once you're done, you'll receive a confirmation.
Option B: The Phone Call Method
If you prefer a personal touch or run into any issues online, a quick phone call can get the job done.
Call the number on the back of your Platinum Card. This is the best way to ensure you're speaking to a dedicated American Express representative.
Ask to enroll in the Priority Pass Select benefit. The representative will guide you through the process, which usually takes just a few minutes. They will confirm your details and submit the enrollment for you.
Important for Authorized Users: If you have added an authorized user to your Platinum Card account, they must call Amex directly using the number on the back of their own card to enroll themselves. The primary cardholder cannot enroll them.
Step 2: The Waiting Game (But Not a Long One!)
After you've enrolled, there will be a waiting period. This is where Priority Pass processes your application and prepares your membership materials.
Wait for your Priority Pass membership card and welcome package. This typically takes 4-6 weeks to arrive at your billing address. The package will contain your physical Priority Pass card, a welcome letter, and information about the program. Do not throw this away!
Keep an eye on your email. In many cases, your Priority Pass membership number and information might be sent to you via email shortly after enrollment, which can be a game-changer if you're traveling soon.
Step 3: The Moment of Truth - Activating Your Account
Once you have your Priority Pass membership number, whether from the physical card or an email, you're ready to activate your account. This is the step that gives you access to the digital membership card.
Go to the Priority Pass website or download the app. Visit the official Priority Pass website or download the app from your phone's app store.
Find the "Activate Your Account" section. This is usually located in the menu bar or on the main page.
Enter your Priority Pass membership number. You'll be prompted to enter the membership number that was sent to you.
Enter a validation code or the last four digits of your Platinum Card. The exact process may vary, but you will need to validate your membership. This often involves using the last four digits of the American Express Platinum Card you used for enrollment.
Create a username and password. This is what you will use to log in to your Priority Pass account in the future.
Accept the terms and conditions. Read and accept the membership declaration to complete the process.
Congratulations! You have now successfully activated your account and can access your digital membership card through the Priority Pass app.
Step 4: Using Your Priority Pass at the Airport
Now for the fun part—using your new benefit!
Sub-heading: Using Your Physical Card
Present your Priority Pass card and boarding pass. When you arrive at a participating lounge, simply show the lounge attendant your physical Priority Pass card and your boarding pass for a confirmed same-day flight.
Mention your guest. If you are traveling with a guest, let the attendant know. Remember, your Platinum Card benefit often includes one complimentary guest per visit, but policies can vary based on your specific card and location.
Sub-heading: Using Your Digital Card
Open the Priority Pass app. Log in using the username and password you created in Step 3.
Access your digital membership card. The app will display your digital card with a QR code or barcode.
Present the digital card and your boarding pass. Show the lounge attendant the digital card on your phone and your same-day boarding pass for entry.
FAQ: How to Get the Most Out of Your Priority Pass
Here are some quick answers to common questions about your new Priority Pass Select membership.
How to find Priority Pass lounges near me? You can easily find participating lounges using the official Priority Pass website or mobile app. The app is particularly useful as it can locate lounges at your current airport and provide details on amenities, hours, and guest policies.
How to add a guest to my Priority Pass membership? Your American Express Platinum Card benefit includes one complimentary guest per visit. You simply need to present your card and boarding pass, and let the lounge attendant know you have a guest.
How to get a digital Priority Pass card? After enrolling and receiving your membership number, download the Priority Pass app and create an online account. Your digital card will be available within the app.
How to handle a lost or stolen Priority Pass card? If your card is lost or stolen, contact American Express Card Services immediately to cancel the card and request a new one.
How to know if a lounge will accept my Priority Pass card? Always check the Priority Pass app or website for the most up-to-date list of participating lounges and their specific policies. Some lounges may not be available on certain dates or at certain times due to capacity constraints.
How to use my Priority Pass for restaurant credits? The Priority Pass Select membership from American Express Platinum typically provides lounge access, not restaurant credits. It is important to confirm the specific benefits of your card's program to avoid any unexpected charges.
How to use my Priority Pass without the physical card? You can use the digital membership card available on the Priority Pass app. It's a great backup and often accepted at most participating lounges.
How to check my Priority Pass visit history? You can view your visit history by logging into your online account on the Priority Pass website or app.
How to renew my Priority Pass membership? As long as your American Express Platinum Card account remains in good standing, your Priority Pass Select membership will automatically renew each year. You do not need to re-enroll.
How to enroll an authorized user for Priority Pass? Each authorized user on your Platinum Card account must call American Express directly to enroll themselves in the Priority Pass Select program. The primary cardholder cannot enroll them.
