Waiting at the airport security lines for long is certainly something that you don’t desire . Right? That is why knowing about the security wait times at the airports beforehand is of immense importance so that you may reach the airport on time and avoid any unexpected delays. In this article we will deal with the DFW Airport security wait times and also mention about the TSA and Clear security checks at length. So, let’s get started.
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What is the Security Wait Times At the DFW Airport?
The security wait times at DFW airport vary from high to low, depending on the time of the day and also the peak and non-peak seasons. Let us look into the security wait times on an average at the DFW Airport;
- 0-10 minutes – During the off-peak hours you will not have to wait for long for security checks at the airport.
- 11-20 minutes – You will mostly experience a moderate security wait time during the morning rush (7 am – 10 am) and evening rush (4 pm to 7 pm) when a lot of people commute for business and work.
- Above 20 minutes – During the peak hours of the day, weekends, and even holiday seasons, the wait time may be above 20 minutes and even as high as 30-45 minutes depending on the rush.
To get real time updates about DFW Airport security wait times for general lines, TSA PreCheck and Priority Boarding you may check DFW’s official website.
Security Checkpoints at DFW (Dallas Fort Worth International Airport)
You will find multiple security checkpoints at every terminal in DFW, thereby giving travellers ample time to shop, and dine before they prepare for their flight. You will find TSA PreCheck lanes available in the following Terminals – A. C, D and E.
You will find the CLEAR programme at Terminal E 18. Just like TSA PreCheck, CLEAR members also get the privilege of skipping long lines and avail of the expedited screening facility. If you need more details on the CLEAR programme, you may inquire at the E 8, E16, or E 18 security checkpoints for more details. Check CLEAR’s official website regarding enrollment and other rules.
DFW also has the KCM or Known Crew Members lanes. Through this the TSA officers are able to identify the crew member’s identity as well as employment status, ensuring a seamless screening process for them. You need to check KCM’s official website to know more about the dedicated security check lanes at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
DFW has automated security screening lanes as well at the following checkpoints – E18, D22, A21, D30, and D18. This new system assures effectiveness in security checks to a greater extent.
Let us look at the different security checkpoints at DFW. for general, TSA PreCheck and Priority categories.
| Checkpoint | Opening Time | Category |
| A12 | 4:00 am to 8:00 pm | General |
| A21 | 3:00 am to 10:30 pm | General |
| A35 | 4:30 am to 2:00 pm | General |
| B9 | 4:30 am to 9:00 pm | General |
| B30 | 4:30 am to 10: 45 pm | General |
| C11 | 4:00 am to 8:30 pm | General |
| C20 | 3:30 am to 10:30 pm | General |
| D18 | 4:00 am to 10:30 pm | General |
| D22 | 5: 00 am to 9:00 pm | General |
| D30 | 3:30 am to 11:00 pm | General |
| E8 | 3:45 am to 8:30 pm | General |
| E18 | 3:00 am to 11:00 pm | General |
| E33 | 4:00 am to 8:30 pm | General |
| Checkpoint | Opening Time | Category |
| A21 | 3:00 am to 10:30 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| B9 | 4:30 am to 9:00 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| C10 | 5:00 am to 6:00 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| C20 | 3:30 am to 10:30 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| D30 | 3:30 am to 11:00 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| E8 | 3:45 am to 8:30 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| E16 | 4: 00 am to 8:00 pm | TSA Pre✓ |
| E18 | 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM | TSA Pre✓ |
| Checkpoint | Opening Time | Category |
| A12 | 4:00 am to 8:00 pm | Priority |
| A21 | 3:00 am to 10:30 pm | Priority |
| A35 | 4:30 am to 2:00 pm | Priority |
| B9 | 4:30 am to 9:00 pm | Priority |
| B30 | 4:30 am to 10: 45 pm | Priority |
| C10 | 5:00 am to 6:00 pm | Priority |
| C11 | 4:00 am to 8:30 pm | Priority |
| C20 | 3:30 am to 10:30 pm | Priority |
| E8 | 3:45 am to 8:30 pm | Priority |
| E33 | 4:00 am to 8:30 pm | Priority |
Tips for Going Through A Hassle-Free Security Check at DFW
When at DFW, here are some important aspects to consider to ensure that your security check process isn’t prolonged and you do not have to go through inconvenience of any kind. Here is what you must make note of:
- You are requested to arrive early and avoid any last minute hurry so that you have enough time to park your vehicle (if needed) , go through the check-in process, collect all required documents and pass through security checks. For domestic departures, arrivals at least 1.5 hours from your departure time are needed. In case of international departures make sure that you reach the airport at least three hours before your flight’s scheduled departure. This way you will be at ease.
- Make sure that you carry all the identification proof which is required at the security checkpoints which include a valid driver’s license, passport and other relevant documents. Check TSA’s official website to know the acceptable identification needed to clear security checks.
- Do check the list on TSA’s website and also with your respective airline regarding what you can carry in your checked and carry-on baggage and what you cannot. This will save you a lot of extra time as well.
- Everyone should go through TSA screening irrespective of age, and this is relevant for babies as well. Security officers at DFW are gentle and respectful in their approach when dealing with young children. If they are upset or not comfortable, the officers will speak to their parents and find out a suitable way to get their job done without hampering the child’s wellbeing.
- TSA has a dedicated program for screening individuals with disabilities alongside their mobility aids and other devices. It is recommended to go through TSA’s official website to know the regulations they have fixed regarding individuals with disabilities or medical conditions.
Conclusion
Knowing about the security wait times at DFW airport in advance makes you prepared regarding the situation in advance. To expedite the long lines, it is recommended that you enrol yourself into Trusted Traveler programmes like TSA PreCheck. Also keep in mind to pack smart, carry all documents needed, and reach the airport early to save yourself from hassles of any kind.
FAQs:
The security wait times vary as per the time you are to check in. It may be as little as 0 to 10 minutes. During moderate and high peak hours you may have to wait for around 11 to 20 minutes or even more than 20 minutes. To get real-time updates about DFW’s security wait times, please check their official website.
For domestic flights arrive at least 1.5 hours before your scheduled departure time for security checks, whereas in the case of international departures, reaching the airport three hours before your flight’s scheduled departure time is recommended.
Family or friends who are waiting to pick-up fellow passengers can avail of the cell phone parking lot situated at the airport’s north end. They can wait there for free for up to two hours.
To ensure that you go through security checks without any trouble it is essential to reach the airport on time, carry all the required documents and even adhere to all the rules and regulations as mentioned by TSA. You must even pack smart.

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