TSA Wait Times: How To Check Airport Security Lines in Real Time

Updated: March 23, 2026, 4:14pm CDT

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Table of Contents

Why TSA Wait Times Are Longer Right Now
How To Check TSA Wait Times
Final Thoughts

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The partial U.S. government shutdown drags on, and airport security lines are getting longer.

Travelers across the country are seeing TSA wait times reach 2 to 3 hours as spring break travel adds additional pressure to staffing and airport operations.

If you’re heading to the airport soon, be sure to budget some extra time (especially if you dont have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR+), and check TSA wait times before you leave your home.

We’ll show you how to check current wait times at your airport.

Why TSA Wait Times Are Longer Right Now

Last month, Congress failed to pass funding bills for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), resulting in a partial government shutdown. With the shutdown now passing 1 month, airports across the U.S. are seeing a surge in security checkpoint delays.

TSA officers are required to work without pay during shutdowns, but with employees missing their first full paycheck, many are calling out as they are forced to take other jobs to make ends meet.

TSA IAH Terminal A 110325 North CLEAR — Image Credit: Keri Stooksbury

With about 10% of officers calling out sick, travelers are experiencing longer lines at TSA security checkpoints. That’s due to a lack of staffing, and it’s worsened by heavy spring break travel demand.

How To Check TSA Wait Times

With TSA lines at airports across the country reaching 2 hours or more, it is a good idea to give yourself some extra time before your flight.

Fortunately, there are a few ways to check live TSA wait times, including AirlineAirport and the MyTSA app, although TSA updates have been limited.

IAH TSA lines — Image Credit: George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Alternatively, you can cross-check that information directly with your home airport to see which terminal currently has the highest wait times.

Some of the busiest airports include:

While the standard TSA security line may be long, there have been many reports of little to no wait when using TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and CLEAR+.

Hot Tip:

Curious about CLEAR+? Here is why a CLEAR+ membership is worth it, despite what others think.

Final Thoughts

As the partial government shutdown drags on, TSA officers are missing paychecks and are (understandably) calling out to find other ways to make ends meet.

With short staff and long lines, travelers should plan to arrive at the airport early to ensure they don’t miss their flight.

Fortunately, there are tools available like MyTSA and airport websites that share real-time updates. With these, you can get a clear picture of what to expect and adjust your travel time accordingly.