A guide to TSA wait times at Portland International Airport (PDX)
Quick insights
- Portland International Airport (PDX) has one terminal with two security checkpoints—one serving Concourses B and C, and the other serving Concourses D and E.
- Estimated security wait times for both security checkpoints are listed on the airport’s website.
- PDX offers TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR services, which can help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers.
Portland is known for its art, food, drink, music and more. Whether you call the Portland area home or you’re just visiting, you may be curious about how much time you’ll need to budget into your schedule for security screening.
In this article, we discuss how to determine TSA wait times at PDX, what might cause longer wait times and how you may be able to speed up getting through security.
TSA wait times at PDX
PDX has one terminal with four concourses (B, C, D and E). There are two security checkpoints at PDX on level two of the terminal:
- B/C security checkpoint: This checkpoint serves passengers heading to Concourse B or C and is open from 3 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
- D/E security checkpoint: This checkpoint serves passengers heading to Concourse D or E and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Security checkpoint hours are subject to change; the PDX website provides the most up-to-date information.
Peak travel times at PDX are typically in the early morning hours and around the holiday season. Travelers can expect longer wait times for security screening during these periods.
How early to arrive at PDX
For passengers traveling within the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends arriving 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 PDX TSA wait times?
Here are some ways you can check TSA wait times at PDX:
- PDX website: The airport websiteOpens overlay provides real-time updates on TSA wait times at both security checkpoints. There are estimated wait times for general boarding as well as TSA PreCheck lanes.
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including PDX.
- 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 that 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 PDX
PDX 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 enabling enrolled travels to bypass the longer lines associated with standard security checks.
TSA PreCheck
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.
There are TSA PreCheck lanes at both PDX security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck lanes are typically open from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
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.
There are CLEAR enrollment ambassadors at PDX, so travelers can apply for TSA PreCheck membership at the airport. No appointment is necessary, but travelers will need to bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident when applying.
What to do at PDX
The airport has several services and amenities spread throughout the terminal and its four concourses. See the airport website for a complete listOpens overlay of the shops, dining options and amenities at PDX. There also is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
The airport also has art and installations that exhibit works by regional artists. There are volunteer musicians that perform at the airport daily thanks to PDX’s music program. The airport also has a complimentary microcinema near Gate C13 called the Hollywood Theater that showcases short films by local filmmakers.
In summary
PDX has two security checkpoints in its terminal. The B/C security checkpoint is open from 3 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The D/C security checkpoint is open 24/7 (note that hours are subject to change).
Travelers can expect longer than average TSA wait times during peak travel times, which are typically in the early morning hours. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services may help reduce security wait times for enrolled travelers.
After security, there are several dining and shopping options throughout the terminal and concourses. The airport also features daily live music performances and a complimentary theater showing short films by local filmmakers.
