Standing in a queue for continuous security checks at LAX Airport might be unpleasant for passengers. However, knowing security wait times can be beneficial upon arrival and departure at this airport.
During peak hours, the typical wait time at the LAX Airport to get through security is between 10 and 20 minutes. Except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays, security lines are generally longer on weekends and holidays, leading to extended waiting times.
LAX Security Wait Times
Security wait times at LAX Airport may vary depending on domestic and international flights. The wait to clear security is about 10 to 15 minutes. It can fluctuate due to the rush at the airport throughout the day.
- In the early morning (12 AM to 6 AM), wait times range from 8 to 25 minutes.
- During the daytime (6 AM to 10 PM), wait times generally range from 1 to 16 minutes, with occasional spikes.
NOTE: For travelers with long layovers & wait times at LAX, there are plenty of things to do at Los Angeles International Airport.
LAX Airport Average Security Wait Times
Below is the guide that offers estimated wait times for both early and late hours of the day to assist you in planning and reducing delays:
| Early hours (AM) | Wait Times | Late Hours (PM) | Wait Times |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 am – 1 am | 8 Minutes | 11 am – 12 pm | 11 Minutes |
| 1 am – 2 am | 20 Minutes | 12 pm – 1 pm | 12 Minutes |
| 2 am – 3 am | 17 Minutes | 1 pm – 2 pm | 10 Minutes |
| 3 am – 4 am | 34 Minutes | 2 pm – 3 pm | 16 Minutes |
| 4 am – 5 am | 25 Minutes | 3 pm – 4 pm | 5 Minutes |
| 5 am – 6 am | 20 Minutes | 4 pm – 5 pm | 8 Minutes |
| 6 am – 7 am | 11 Minutes | 5 pm – 6 pm | 15 Minutes |
| 7 am – 8 am | 14 Minutes | 6 pm – 7 pm | 9 Minutes |
| 8 am – 9 am | 12 Minutes | 7 pm – 8 pm | 1 Minutes |
| 9 am – 10 am | 14 Minutes | 8 pm – 9 pm | 13 Minutes |
| 10 am – 11 am | 7 Minutes | 9 pm – 10 pm | 12 Minutes |
| 11 am – 12 am | 10 Minutes | 10 pm – 11 pm | 17 Minutes |
NOTE: Modifying the projected times can occasionally cause unexpected delays and wait times at LAX Airport. For weary passengers, LAX Airport Sleeping Pods would help during long wait times between connecting flights.
TSA Wait Times at Los Angeles Airport
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) manages various security procedures for departing and arriving passengers. These include standard, TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, customs & immigration, and Fast Lane processes.
LAX TSA wait times are usually less than 5 minutes but can vary by terminal and time, here is the schedule of terminal wait times:
| LAX Terminals | Timing |
|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | 04:00 am – 07:30 pm |
| Terminal 3 | 04:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| Terminal 4 | 04:00 am – 06:00 pm |
| Terminal 5 | 04:00 am – 08:00 pm |
| Terminal 6 | 04:00 am – 08:00 pm |
| Terminal 7 | 04:00 am – 10:00 pm |
| TBIT (Terminal B) | 06:00 am – 08:00 pm |
| Domestic Flight Terminal | – |
NOTE: The LAX Fast Lane program is also available at Terminal 7, offering security clearance in less than 5 minutes. It allows registered passengers to enjoy faster security checks.
Key Takeaways
- For airline-specific passengers flying from Terminal 1 at LAX, can get more information through the links given below:
- For airline-specific passengers flying from Terminal 5 at LAX, can get more information through the links given below:
- For airline-specific passengers flying from Terminal 6 at LAX, can get more information through the links given below:
- For airline-specific passengers flying from Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at LAX, can get more information through the links given below:
Final Words
Security wait times at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) may vary widely depending on several factors, including the time of day, terminal, and travel season. During peak travel times, such as early mornings, late afternoons, weekends, and holidays, wait times are typically longer.
Each terminal may experience different wait times due to the varying volume of passengers and the number of security lanes available.
Enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can significantly reduce security wait times by providing access to expedited screening processes. It is advisable to check real-time security wait times on the LAX website before heading to the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average security wait time at LAX?
The average wait time for security at LAX is typically 11 minutes, although it can extend to 30 minutes during peak times.
How much time should I allow between connecting flights at LAX?
For connecting flights, the wait times at LAX can be increased to 2 to 3 hours due to additional processes like customs and security checks.
Is LAX Airport busy at 11 am?
Yes, the international terminals at Los Angeles Airport have the highest traffic between 11 am and 3 pm.
How to avoid long TSA security lines at LAX?
To avoid long LAX security lines, arrive early, and sign up for TSA Precheck or CLEAR. You can use a terminal that has fewer lines, and check the real-time wait times online for convenience.
How early should I get to LAX?
For domestic flights, passengers are advised to arrive at LAX at least 2 hours before domestic flight departure, and 3 hours before departure for international flights.
How long does it take to get through LAX security?
The average wait time to get through security at LAX Airport is approximately 10-20 minutes during peak hours. On weekends or holidays, the queues can be longer, resulting in an extended waiting time, except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
How to contact TSA at Los Angeles Airport?
For general queries and live wait time information, you can contact the LAX Airport TSA Contact Center at 1-855-TSA-LINE (1-855-872-5463).
Is LAX open 24/7?
Yes, LAX operates 24/7, ensuring continuous flight services, security, and transportation. The security checks open from 4 a.m. to 5 a.m. and the closing time is from 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.
