The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is indeed a huge one. Navigating security areas from other areas at this junction can be confusing, especially during peak travel hours. No one wants to miss their flight or get stuck in congestion, adding to their travel stress. It can be more difficult if you don’t have access to expedited screening. However, this guide will solve all your flight travel problems! This manual will inform you about ATL TSA wait times. It will enhance your journey and help you make better travel decisions. So, let’s get ahead.
Atlanta Airport TSA Wait Times
From this section, you will get a rough idea of the time duration you have to wait at the Atlanta Airport’s security lines. However, keep in mind that every day is different. The Atlanta TSA wait times may fluctuate depending on the tourism situation.
So, let’s take a look at…
How long are security lines at Atlanta Airport?
The time you will be spending at the ATL Airport security may look like this:
| Morning Shift | Screening Duration | Evening Shift | Screening Duration |
| 12 am – 1 am | 3 Minutes | 12 pm – 1 pm | 22 Minutes |
| 1 am – 2 am | 0 Minute | 1 pm – 2 pm | 16 Minutes |
| 2 am – 3 am | 8 Minutes | 2 pm – 3 pm | 10 Minutes |
| 3 am – 4 am | 15 Minutes | 3 pm – 4 pm | 15 Minutes |
| 4 am – 5 am | 23 Minutes | 4 pm – 5 pm | 12 Minutes |
| 5 am – 6 am | 17 Minutes | 5 pm – 6 pm | 11 Minutes |
| 6 am – 7 am | 10 Minutes | 6 pm – 7 pm | 10 Minutes |
| 7 am – 8 am | 25 Minutes | 7 pm – 8 pm | 5 Minutes |
| 8 am – 9 am | 16 Minutes | 8 pm – 9 pm | 9 Minutes |
| 9 am – 10 am | 16 Minutes | 9 pm – 10 pm | 4 Minutes |
| 10 am – 11 am | 5 Minutes | 10 pm – 11 pm | 18 Minutes |
| 11 am – 12 pm | 23 Minutes | 11 pm – 12 am | 12 Minutes |
From here, you can notice that the TSA will typically take about 17 to 26 minutes of your time for screening. Yet, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight is scheduled for departure.
TSA Wait Times ATL Airport Terminals
To be more precise on the Atlanta TSA wait times, have a look at this section.
| Atlanta Airport Terminal | TSA Checkpoint | Wait Time (in minutes) |
| Domestic | Main Checkpoint | 2 |
| Domestic | North Checkpoint | 2 |
| Domestic | Lower North Checkpoint | 0 |
| Domestic | South PreCheck Only Checkpoint | 3 |
| International | Main Checkpoint | 2 |
Tips to Minimize Atlanta TSA Wait Times
Loading some secret tips to get you ahead of other passengers at the Atlanta Airport security screening.
- Enroll in Expedited Screening Programs: The obvious way you can minimize your travel time at the airport is by getting into the TSA PreCheck or Clear program. This way, what takes an hour to do will be completed within minutes.
- Utilize the MyTSA App or ATL Website: Make the most of the modern technology you have. Through the TSA website, check wait times in real time before leaving home or while at the airport. It will help you choose the least crowded checkpoint and prepare for your departure beforehand.
- Travel during off-peak hours: Try to avoid peak travel times, such as the holiday season, post-lunch rush (usually 2 PM – 5 PM), and so on. If you can, try to travel in the late evening or early morning to avoid long airport security lines.
- Prepare for your airport journey: By now, you are well aware that Atlanta Airport has multiple checkpoints. So, do the homework. Go through the airport’s layout on their official website for easier navigation.
- Pack light and organize: Don’t overstuff your travel backpacks with unnecessary stuff. Check the TSA security baggage rules to avoid having your bag rejected. Pack like a minimalist and organize like a professional to prevent hassle during TSA screening at the airport. The same goes for your clothing, too.
- Use Mobile Boarding Pass: Keep your travel documents secure and handy when traveling. If possible, go for an e-boarding pass. This way, you don’t have to juggle through flight papers and can seamlessly pass through the security.
All Set for Airport Screening Test!
Get on your feet. You don’t need to rush through the ATL TSA Wait Times anymore! You know the time it will take to go through the screening. You know which terminal will be best for the procedure. Last but not least, you have the expert tips to get you through the TSA in a blink. The only reason you must hurry is the anticipation of reaching your destination. With the help of this guide, you will surely be there in no time. Now, you can say without hesitation, “TSA here I come!”
Questions About TSA
It will take you approximately thirty minutes to go through the security screening procedure at the Atlanta International Airport.
It will take you around 2 minutes to complete the security screening process at the North Checkpoint of ATL’s Domestic Terminal. However, it may fluctuate depending on travel situations.
You can quicken the security screening process at the airport by enrolling in expedited screening programs, choosing off-peak seasons to travel, packing light, and organizing your bags properly.
You should be at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your flight departure as the security screening process may take longer than you expect.
