San Francisco International (SFO) TSA Wait Times
15 minutes and 24 seconds
TSA PreCheck
Available
Updated
Just now
Hourly Wait Time Patterns at SFO
Estimated wait times throughout the day based on historical patterns
Wait times at San Francisco International range from 0 minutes during off-peak hours to 28 minutes at peak times, with an average of 13 minutes throughout the day.
Security Checkpoint Status at SFO
Real-time checkpoint status including PreCheck lane availability
| Terminal | Checkpoint | Status |
|---|---|---|
| International Terminal | Boarding Area A Checkpoint | Open |
| Boarding Area G Checkpoint | Open | |
| 1 | Boarding Area B Checkpoint | Open |
| Boarding Area C Checkpoint | Open | |
| 2 | Boarding Area D Checkpoint | Open |
| 3 | Boarding Area F1 Checkpoint | Open |
| Boarding Area F3 Checkpoint | Closed |
Best Times to Go Through Security at SFO
Shortest Waits
- 12 am - 1 am~0 min
- 1 am - 2 am~2 min
- 8 pm - 9 pm~2 min
Busiest (Avoid)
- 6 am - 7 am~28 min
- 2 pm - 3 pm~26 min
- 1 pm - 2 pm~24 min
The average wait time at San Francisco International throughout the day is approximately 13 minutes. Wait times range from 0 minutes during off-peak hours to 28 minutes during the busiest periods.
Nearby Airports
Compare wait times at airports near San Francisco International
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31 miles away
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Frequently Asked Questions About San Francisco International TSA
How long is the TSA security line at San Francisco International (SFO) right now?▾
The current estimated TSA wait time at San Francisco International is approximately 15 minutes. Wait times are updated every 5 minutes based on real-time data. Actual wait times may vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and seasonal travel volume.
What are the busiest times at SFO airport security?▾
The busiest times for TSA security at San Francisco International are typically 6 am - 7 am, 2 pm - 3 pm, 1 pm - 2 pm. During these peak hours, wait times can be significantly longer than average. For the shortest wait times, consider arriving during 12 am - 1 am, 1 am - 2 am, 8 pm - 9 pm, when waits can drop to as low as 0 minutes.
Does San Francisco International have TSA PreCheck?▾
Yes, San Francisco International (SFO) offers TSA PreCheck lanes. PreCheck passengers typically experience shorter wait times and do not need to remove shoes, laptops, or liquids from their bags. PreCheck lanes are available at select checkpoints — check our checkpoint status section above for current availability.
How early should I arrive at SFO airport?▾
For domestic flights from San Francisco International, we recommend arriving at least 2 hours before your departure time. For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours early. During peak travel periods or when current wait times exceed 30 minutes, consider adding an extra 30-60 minutes to your arrival time. TSA PreCheck passengers can typically arrive later, but should still allow at least 90 minutes for domestic flights.
Which security checkpoint is fastest at San Francisco International?▾
San Francisco International has 4 terminals with security checkpoints. Wait times can vary between checkpoints — check the checkpoint status table above to see which checkpoints are currently open and their estimated wait times. Some checkpoints may be faster depending on the time of day and your terminal.
What is the average TSA wait time at SFO?▾
The average TSA wait time at San Francisco International varies throughout the day. Off-peak hours (12 am - 1 am, 1 am - 2 am, 8 pm - 9 pm) typically see wait times around 0 minutes, while peak hours (6 am - 7 am, 2 pm - 3 pm, 1 pm - 2 pm) can see significantly longer waits. Check the hourly wait time chart above for a detailed breakdown of expected wait times throughout the day.
About San Francisco International (SFO) Security
San Francisco International is located in San Francisco, California. The airport offers TSA PreCheck lanes for eligible travelers, which typically reduces wait times significantly. The airport has 4 terminals with security checkpoints. Wait times can vary between terminals, so check the checkpoint status above for the most up-to-date information.
TSA wait times at SFO are updated every 5 minutes. For the most accurate information, check this page close to your departure time. We recommend arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights, adding extra time during peak hours or holiday travel periods.