How Amex Priority Security Works (And If It’s Worth It)

Toronto’s Pearson Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, so security lines can get a little long. Fortunately, American Express offers a valuable time-saving perk with several credit cards: Priority Security. Just generate a unique QR code by logging into your Amex account and scan the code when you’re ready to head through security. You’ll skip the lines and be on your way in no time!

What is Amex Priority Security access?

Priority Security is a benefit that comes with a handful of Amex credit cards, including:

• American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
• American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
• American Express Platinum Card
• The Business Platinum Card from American Express
• American Express Centurion Card

Instead of standing in line (im)patiently to get through security, you can quickly jump to the head of the security lineup by flashing a unique Amex QR code.

You can use this option for yourself and for friends and family traveling with you. But that last part is important – you can’t add passengers travelling on a different flight.

Which airports give you Priority Security?

It’s important to stress just how limited this perk is: Priority Security is only available to Canadian cardholders and only at Toronto Pearson Airport.

If you’re passing through YYZ, head to Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 and look for the electronic security gates with Amex all over them. Since these are automated, they’re always available.

How to access American Express Priority Security lanes

It’s surprisingly easy to use Priority Security. As long as you have a qualifying card and you’re at the right airport, here’s what to do:

1. Visit go.amex/yyz and log in to your online services account.
2. Select the number of people travelling in your party, including yourself.
3. Agree to the terms and conditions.
4. Scan the QR quote directly from your smartphone at the electronic gate or download and print the QR quote to take with you to the airport.

If you’re travelling with others, Amex will generate a unique QR code for each person. Once you’ve scanned all the codes, you can head straight to security. It’s that simple!

Is Amex Priority Security worth it?

We took to Reddit to see what real travellers through YYZ had to say about using this distinct benefit. Many appreciate how easy it is to use, but dislike that the Priority Security line simply moves you ahead of other people in the security line.

Redditors also discussed whether or not Priority Security or NEXUS is faster – especially since Priority Security essentially feeds you into the NEXUS and military members' security line.

The bottom line: If you frequently fly from or through Toronto Pearson, Amex Priority Security is probably worth it. If your travel is more varied and primarily U.S.-based, look into a NEXUS pass – and don’t forget that your Amex might include a NEXUS rebate!

FAQ

Where is Priority Security at Pearson Airport?

You can get through priority security in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The electronic Amex gates are located on the sides of the security lines.

Can you skip TSA with Amex Platinum?

No, you are still required to pass through the TSA check when departing from American airports.

How does Priority Security work?

Before you head to security, request a unique QR code from the Amex website or app. At the electronic Amex security gate, scan the QR code and head straight to the front of the security line.