A guide to TSA wait times at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Quick insights
- The time of day and year can affect how long passengers wait in security screening lines at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
- There is one main security checkpoint in the main terminal that is open 24 hours a day.
- The SLC website provides estimated security screening wait times on its homepage.
SLC is the primary international airport in Utah and is located 5 miles northwest of downtown Salt Lake City. Travelers can expect more than 300 flights daily to dozens of destinations across the U.S. and select international cities.
In this article, we discuss how to determine security wait times at SLC, what can cause longer wait times and how you may be able to speed up getting through security.
TSA wait times at SLC
SLC has one terminal with two concourses—Concourse A and Concourse B. The concourses are connected by underground tunnels, with Concourse A being the closest to the main terminal. The security checkpoint for both concourses is on level 2 of the Main Terminal and is open 24 hours a day.
Mornings, early afternoons and holidays are typically peak travel times at SLC. Travelers can expect longer wait times during these periods. Additionally, winter sports season and local events can bring an influx of travelers to Utah from winter through early spring.
How early to arrive at SLC
For passengers traveling domestically, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) generally recommends passengers arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to their flight’s departure. For international flights, the recommended arrival time is 3 hours prior to departure.
How can I check SLC TSA wait times?
Here are some ways you can check TSA wait times at SLC:
- SLC website: The airport websiteOpens overlay provides real-time updates on TSA wait times. These times are approximate.
- SLC Airport App: The airport’s official app shows estimated security wait times as well as flight schedules and airport updates.
- MyTSA app: The MyTSA appOpens overlay provides general wait time estimates for U.S. airports, including SLC.
- 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 well in advance of your flight can help you avoid potential issues that can arise from fluctuating security wait times.
Ways to expedite wait times at SLC
SLC offers TSA PreCheck® and CLEAR services, which can help reduce wait times for enrolled travelers. These services may allow for a more streamlined security process by enabling passengers to bypass the longer lines associated with standard security checks.
TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck can help streamline your airport experience by enabling you to access expedited security screening lanes. You must enroll in the program, pay a fee and receive approval 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.
The airport also has a TSA PreCheck enrollment center. Travelers can apply for or renew their TSA PreCheck membership in the CLEAR lane at SLC.
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.
Amenities at SLC
The airport offers several services and amenities, including:
- Animal Relief Stations: There is one outside of the airport on the west side of the terminal and three stations in the concourses (two in Concourse A and one in Concourse B).
- Mother’s Rooms: Private nursing suites are in most of the women’s restrooms.
- United Service Organization (USO) lounge: The USO lounge is available for active military members and their families. It is located in Concourse A and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (hours subject to change).
- Wi-Fi: There is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
There are also several dining and shopping options throughout the main terminal and concourses.
In summary
SLC is the main airport in Utah offering hundreds of daily flights to U.S. cities and select international destinations. The airport has one main terminal which houses the security checkpoint on level 2.
Travelers can check the SLC website for estimated security screening wait times. The airport also has an app with wait time information as well as maps, airport schedules and updates. Travelers are generally advised to arrive at the airport 2 hours ahead of their domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights.
