Guide to TSA wait times at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Quick insights
- TSA wait times at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are generally around 15 minutes.
- During peak travel periods, wait times can extend to 25 minutes or more.
- Using apps that provide real-time TSA wait times could help travelers better plan their arrival time at LAX.
Concerned about your TSA wait time at LAX? As a major hub with nine terminals and a high volume of international flights, LAX can sometimes experience longer TSA wait times.
Fortunately, there are resources available to help you anticipate how long you’ll spend in line and reduce the time it takes to reach your gate. In this article, we’ve gathered some things to know about TSA wait times at LAX and offer tips to help you navigate security more efficiently.
Airport security wait times at LAX
At LAX, TSA wait times are typically around 15 minutes. However, during busy periods, they can extend to 30 minutes or more. Peak travel times at LAX generally occur during the following hours:
- 6:30 to 9 a.m. (domestic flights)
- 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (domestic and international flights)
- 8 to 11 p.m. (domestic and international flights)
Evenings can be particularly busy, especially in Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B), due to the number of international flights departing from LAX during later hours.
Wait times may also increase during holidays and major local events like the LA Marathon and LA Pride.
As of March 2025, the LAX website doesn’t provide current TSA wait times. However, travelers can download MyTSA and other mobile apps to access current wait times for standard and TSA PreCheck® lanes based on real-time data. Some apps also use historical data to predict likely wait times on specific travel days.
While these resources may be helpful, it’s worth noting that wait times can fluctuate suddenly due to factors like increased passenger volume, the availability of screening equipment and TSA staffing levels.
How early to arrive before a flight at LAX
LAX advises passengers to call their airline for recommendations on how early to arrive before a flight. However, since reaching airlines by phone can be time consuming, many travelers may opt to follow the general guidance of arriving 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
LAX offers a few resources that may help you plan your airport arrival time and get to your gate more efficiently:
- LAX Fast Lane: Reserve your security screening time in advance using LAX Fast Lane, a pilot program available in Terminals 7 and 8.
- Parking services: Book and prepay parking or check lots for available spaces at the LAX parking page.
If you’re using economy or budget parking, be aware that shuttles servicing these lots depart for the terminals approximately every 10 minutes. Off-airport parking options are also available.
In Los Angeles where freeway congestion is a frequent occurrence, allowing ample drive time to reach LAX may help you avoid missing your flight. Traffic patterns can be unpredictable, but mobile apps with GPS navigation can assist you in finding the most efficient route based on current traffic conditions.
Tips for getting through TSA faster
You could potentially expedite your airport security screening by following these tips:
Avoid traveling during peak times
If your schedule allows, you may consider traveling during off-peak times when TSA lines are generally shorter. Mobile apps that predict TSA wait times can help you identify the best times to travel.
Additionally, John Wayne Airport (JWA) in Orange County often has shorter TSA and passport control wait times compared to LAX, making it a viable alternative for some travelers.
Prepare for security screenings
To ease the security screening process, it’s often helpful to familiarize yourself with TSA rules and carry-on restrictions and to keep your bags organized. Wear easy-to-remove shoes, belts and jackets, as you’ll need to remove these items during screening.
Consider programs designed to expedite security screenings
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows travelers to use designated security lanes. When you enroll with TSA PreCheck, you typically don’t need to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket, and you can often leave liquids and your laptop in your carry-on.
Another option is CLEAR Plus, a membership program via CLEAR (a private security company) that uses biometrics to confirm your identity at designated kiosks, before allowing you to proceed to the screening lanes as usual. While CLEAR Plus is not part of the Trusted Traveler Program, it can be paired with TTPs like TSA PreCheck to further streamline the screening process.
Use mobile airline apps
Many airlines offer mobile apps that allow passengers to check in, access mobile boarding passes and pre-check luggage. In some cases, the apps enable you to bypass the airline self-service kiosk and counter.
However, note that while the app can usually handle payment for checked bags, you will still need to drop them off at the airline counter.
In summary
At LAX, wait times are usually around 15 minutes under normal conditions. However, during busy travel periods, wait times could extend to 25 minutes or more. Wait times usually peak from:
- 6:30 to 9 a.m.
- 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- 8 to 11 p.m.
Although the LAX website does not provide current TSA wait times, travelers can use MyTSA and other mobile apps to access this information. Those flying out of Terminals 7 and 8 can use LAX Fast Lane program to reserve a security screening time in advance.
A few potential ways to get through airport security faster include preparing for the screening, using mobile airline apps or enrolling in TSA PreCheck.
