Los Angeles LAX Security TSA Wait Times [TODAY]

Getting through security at Los Angeles International Airport can be overwhelming, given the size of the airport, but we provide some guidance on this page that hopefully will make it less of a daunting task (plus a very simple to read TSA Wait Times indicator above). Keep reading to learn more about questions like, what you can and can’t take on your flight or how long should give yourself to safely get through security at LAX.

Let's dive in.

To offer yourself sufficient time to check-in, pass TSA security and walk to your assigned gate, we recommend the following:

• International: 3 hours prior to departure
• Flying to Europe: 2 hours prior to departure
• Domestic: 1 1/2 hours prior to departure

List of items you CAN bring on carry-on luggage that needs to go through TSA Security?

• Traveling with a baby? You can bring enough formula as needed, but keep in mind TSA may ask to test the liquid through one of their scanners
• Liquids must be 100ML or 3.4OZ or less and stored together in a caledar, resealable bag no larger than 200CM or 6.5 inches x 200CM or 6.5 inches.

How long does TSA Pre-check take at Los Angeles International Airport?

LAX announced a pilot program today for United Airlines travelers departing from terminals 7 and 8 to pre-schedule a 15-minute window to go through the security screening checkpoint.

The LAX Fast Lane program will be available from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. for 90 days, ending on Jan. 18, 2022. Spots can be reserved up to 24 hours before departure, and travelers must select a time frame that is at least an hour before the flight leaves. NBC Los Angeles

Does LAX have a Priority Security line?

Yes, the Los Angeles International Airport calls it, the Fast Lane. 

Guests flying out of Terminal 7 or 8 can now choose to go through the LAX Fast Lane. This means that they won’t need to wait in line at the regular TSA checkpoint. However, this option is only available to those who fly out of Terminal 7 or Terminal 8, and not those who fly out of any other terminal. Check above for LAX Airport Security wait times, updated every minute.

Schedule your appointment here

How it works:

You can sign up for flights up to three days before your trip.

When you get to the airport, select the airline you’re flying on, destination, and flight numbers along with your name, phone number, and email address.

Your reservation is saved and ready for you to check-in online.

When you arrive at the LAX Airport Fast Lane checkpoint, look for the LAX Airport logo or use this interactive map for step- by-step directions.

You must show your confirmation of your appointment to get through security.

Flight Delays

It’s important to check your flight status before headed to the airport. Use our LAX Departure Delays or Flight Status widget to find flight delay information.  Try to arrive around 1 1/2 hours prior to flight departures for Domestic and 2 1/2 hours for International Flights, and when needed, account for more time when you require LAX airport parking or experience unexpected taxi delays.

For Arrival Traffic / Incoming Flights, use our LAX Arrival Delays.

Helpful Tips about LAX Security:

First, remember that they do not check your bags until after you pass through the metal detectors and go through the x-ray machine. If you have no items that need to be screened (for example, liquids) then you can just walk right through the metal detector. This way you avoid having to put everything back into your bag. You should also note that if you are flying out of Los Angeles International Airport from LAX then you will first have to clear customs before going through security.

Second, if you are flying internationally, you may want to consider flying directly into San Francisco International Airport instead of LAX. You can bypass the TSA completely by entering the US via SFO.

Third, some airlines allow passengers to pre-clear US Customs prior to boarding their flight. In this case, you could choose to fly direct to the US border and clear customs there.

Finally, you might consider purchasing a TSA PreCheck membership.

With a PreCheck membership, you can skip the line at the airport’s security checkpoint and use the expedited security lanes. If you have a PreCheck membership, make sure to bring your ID card with you when you travel.

Tarmac delay

LAX International Airport's Emergency Contingency Plan was prepared under section 42301 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act 2012. For more information, please contact Viji Prasad at vprasad.lawa.org. LAX plans this for the Transportation Department because it's a commercial airport.

WiFi, Internet at LAX

Free Wi-Fi can be found throughout the terminal. Passengers using the service are presented with ads or a video (15-30 seconds). Please complete the following steps for a connection to our free wireless. Authorizations take approximately 45 minutes. Speeds of the LAN are a minimum of 5 Mbps /sec.

How early should I get to LAX?

2 hours

Is LAX busy on Saturday mornings?

LAX airports are often busy during nighttime, weekends or weekdays and on weekends or holidays. It is one of the busiest airports in the world.