A guide to TSA wait times at Charlotte Douglas Liberty International Airport (CLT)
Quick insights
- CLT has one terminal with three security checkpoints.
- Estimated security wait times for each terminal are listed on the airport’s website.
- CLT offers TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR services, which can help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
CLT is located approximately 10 miles away from Charlotte’s central business district. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you may be curious about how long you might need to get through security screening during your travels.
In this article, we discuss how to determine TSA wait times at CLT, what might cause longer wait times and ways you may be able to speed up getting through security.
TSA wait times at CLT
CLT has one terminal with five concourses (A, B, C, D and E). There are three security checkpoints at CLT, all on level two of the terminal (note that hours are subject to change):
- Checkpoint 1: Located near Concourse B. This checkpoint is open daily from 3:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Checkpoint 2: Located near Concourse C. This checkpoint has the main TSA PreCheck checkpoint. It’s open daily from 3:30 a.m. to 10:45 p.m.
- Checkpoint 3: Located near Concourse D. This checkpoint is open daily from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m.
All concourses and gates are accessible from any security checkpoint. Peak travel times during the week are typically in the early morning and late afternoon, as well as during holidays and spring break. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods.
How early to arrive at CLT
For passengers traveling within the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends passengers arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to their departure time. For international flights, the recommended arrival time is 3 hours prior to departure.
How can I check CLT TSA wait times?
Here are some ways you can check TSA wait times at CLT:
- CLT website: The airport websiteOpens overlay provides real-time updates on TSA wait times at each terminal’s security checkpoint. These times are estimates.
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including CLT.
- Third-party sites: Some third-party websites may use historical data and real-time traveler updates to provide up-to-date information about wait times at various airports.
Keep in mind, these tools provide estimates, and actual wait times can change while you’re at the airport. Arriving at the airport early may help you avoid potential issues that can arise from fluctuating security wait times.
Ways to expedite wait times at CLT
CLT offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services, which may help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers. These services allow for a more streamlined security process by allowing enrolled members to bypass the longer lines associated with standard security checks.
TSA PreCheck
There are TSA PreCheck lanes in all three terminals. TSA PreCheck can help streamline your airport experience by allowing you to access expedited security screening lanes.
You must enroll in the program, pay a fee and be approved before you can use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at the airport. Approved travelers should have a TSA PreCheck logo displayed on their boarding pass. TSA PreCheck must be renewed every 5 years.
CLEAR Plus
CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus. CLEAR Plus uses biometric data to help expedite the identity verification part of the security screening process. Once verified, travelers can proceed to luggage screening lanes.
CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck, but they are separate programs.
What to do at CLT
The airport has several services and amenities spread throughout the airport and its three concourses. See the airport website for a complete listOpens overlay of the shops, dining options and amenities at CLT.
Some amenities include:
- Animal relief stations
- Mother’s rooms
- Worship spaces
- A USO Lounge
- Beauty and spa services
There also is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
In summary
CLT has three security checkpoints in its main terminal. Passengers can access all gates after passing through any security checkpoint. Travelers can expect longer than average wait times during peak travel times, which are typically in the early morning and late afternoon. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services may help reduce security wait times for enrolled travelers.
