What Clear Choice Auto Glass Does

Clear Choice Auto Glass is a national auto glass repair and replacement chain that operates through a network of franchised locations and mobile service units. The company handles windshield repairs, full windshield replacements, side window repairs, and back glass replacement for most vehicle makes and models. They also install aftermarket accessories like sunroofs and moonroofs.

Clear Choice operates in most U.S. states through company-owned locations and franchise partners. Unlike some glass shops that work only with walk-in customers, Clear Choice coordinates with insurance companies — most auto insurance policies cover glass damage, and Clear Choice handles the insurance claim process on behalf of customers. This means you typically pay only your deductible (usually $0 to $500, depending on your policy) rather than the full repair cost.

The company also offers direct-pay options for customers without insurance coverage or those who prefer to pay out of pocket. Pricing varies by location, vehicle type, and glass type, so costs differ across regions and for different models.

Key Takeaways

  • Clear Choice handles windshield and auto glass repair and replacement at hundreds of locations nationwide, plus mobile service to your home or workplace.
  • Most repairs and replacements are covered by auto insurance, and Clear Choice coordinates directly with your insurance company to process the claim.
  • You typically pay only your insurance deductible at the time of service, not the full repair cost.
  • If you do not have insurance coverage or prefer to pay directly, Clear Choice offers cash pricing, though costs vary by location and vehicle type.
  • Scheduling is usually done by phone or through their website, and many locations offer same-day or next-day service.

How the Insurance Claim Process Works

When you contact Clear Choice with glass damage, the first step is to confirm your insurance coverage. You will need your insurance policy number and the name of your insurance company. Clear Choice staff can often verify coverage over the phone and tell you what your deductible will be.

Once coverage is confirmed, Clear Choice submits the claim to your insurance company on your behalf. This is called a direct repair program (DRP) claim — your insurer has already approved Clear Choice as a preferred vendor, so the claim process is streamlined. Your insurance company sends payment directly to Clear Choice, and you pay only your deductible at the time of service.

The timeline from claim submission to repair completion typically ranges from same-day to a few business days, depending on your insurer's processing speed and whether the location has the correct glass in stock. Some locations can complete repairs while you wait; others may need to order glass and schedule a return appointment.

Scheduling and Service Options

Clear Choice offers three main ways to schedule service: phone, online through their website, and through some insurance company apps that integrate Clear Choice as a vendor. When you schedule, you will be asked for your vehicle information (year, make, model), the type of damage, and your preferred location or whether you want mobile service.

Mobile service means a technician comes to your home, workplace, or another location to perform the repair. This is available at most Clear Choice locations and is often included in insurance coverage at no extra charge. Mobile service typically takes 30 minutes to an hour for a repair and one to two hours for a full replacement, depending on the glass type and vehicle.

If you prefer to visit a physical location, Clear Choice has walk-in service at many shops, though scheduling ahead usually means shorter wait times. Some locations are open evenings and weekends, though hours vary by franchise.

What Happens During the Repair or Replacement

For a windshield repair (a small chip or crack), the technician cleans the damaged area, injects a specialized resin into the crack, and cures it with UV light. The repair typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and costs less than a full replacement. Most insurance policies cover repairs at little or no cost to you.

For a full windshield replacement, the technician removes the old windshield by cutting the adhesive seal around its edges, cleans the frame, applies new adhesive, and installs the new glass. The vehicle must sit for a set time (usually one to four hours, depending on the adhesive type) before you drive it, so the adhesive can cure properly. Clear Choice will tell you the exact wait time when you schedule.

Side window and back glass replacements follow a similar process but usually take less time because those windows are not bonded to the vehicle frame the way windshields are. Most side and back glass work can be completed in 30 to 45 minutes.

Pricing and Payment Options

Clear Choice pricing depends on several factors: your vehicle's year, make, and model; the type of glass (OEM original equipment manufacturer glass, aftermarket, or specialty glass); your location; and whether the work is covered by insurance.

If your insurance covers the work, you pay your deductible only. Deductibles typically range from $0 to $500, though some policies have $0 deductibles for glass-only claims. Clear Choice accepts most major credit cards, debit cards, and cash.

If you are paying out of pocket, Clear Choice offers direct pricing. Windshield replacements for most vehicles range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the vehicle and glass type. The company sometimes offers discounts for cash payment or for customers without insurance. Call your local Clear Choice location or check their website for current pricing in your area.

What to Bring and Prepare Before Your Appointment

For an insurance claim, bring your insurance card or policy number. Clear Choice can often look up your policy details if you provide your name and date of birth, but having the card on hand speeds up the process.

For a mobile appointment, make sure the technician has clear access to your vehicle — if you are at work, let your employer know a technician will be arriving. If you are at home, may support the vehicle is parked in a spot where the technician can safely work around it.

If you are paying out of pocket, bring a valid payment method. Clear Choice does not typically require advance payment for scheduled appointments, but confirming your payment method when you book can speed up the checkout process on the day of service.

Common Issues and What to Know

One common question is whether you must use Clear Choice if your insurance recommends it. The answer is no — you have the right to choose any glass shop, even if your insurer has a preferred vendor program. However, using a DRP vendor like Clear Choice usually means lower out-of-pocket costs because the claim process is already set up.

Another issue is glass type. Some vehicles require OEM glass (the exact brand the vehicle came with), while others can use aftermarket glass that meets safety standards. OEM glass costs more but is identical to the original. Aftermarket glass is less expensive and meets federal safety standards but may differ slightly in tint or coating. Your insurance company and Clear Choice can explain which option is available for your vehicle.

If your vehicle has advanced driver information systems (ADAS) — features like lane-keeping information or automatic emergency braking — the windshield may need recalibration after replacement. Some Clear Choice locations offer this service; others refer you to a dealership. Ask when you schedule whether recalibration is needed for your vehicle and whether Clear Choice can handle it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my car right after a windshield replacement?

No. The adhesive that bonds the windshield to the frame needs time to cure, usually one to four hours depending on the adhesive type and weather conditions. Clear Choice will tell you the exact wait time when the work is done. Driving before the adhesive is fully cured can compromise the seal and create a safety risk.

Does Clear Choice work with all insurance companies?

Clear Choice is a preferred vendor (DRP partner) for most major insurers, including State Farm, Geico, Allstate, and Progressive. However, coverage and claim processes vary by insurer and policy. Call Clear Choice with your insurance information, and they can confirm whether your specific policy is covered and what your deductible will be.

What if I have a small chip — should I repair or replace?

Small chips and cracks (typically smaller than a dollar bill) can usually be repaired rather than replaced. Repairs are faster, cheaper, and usually covered by insurance at no cost. However, if the damage is in your direct line of sight, in the corner of the windshield, or if the crack is spreading, replacement may be necessary for safety reasons. Clear Choice can assess the damage and recommend the best option.

What if the glass is damaged again before the adhesive fully cures?

This is rare, but if damage occurs during the curing period, contact Clear Choice when ready. Most locations will re-do the work at no charge if the damage happened before the adhesive was fully set. After the curing time has passed, any new damage is treated as a separate claim.

Can Clear Choice install aftermarket accessories like sunroofs?

Yes. Clear Choice installs sunroofs, moonroofs, and other glass-related accessories at many locations. Pricing and availability vary by location, so contact your local Clear Choice shop to discuss options and get a quote for the specific accessory you want.