Lois Larson
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) offers multiple security checkpoints in each terminal, with varying operating hours. The average security wait time is 17 minutes, but it can go up to 30 minutes during peak hours. To expedite the security screening process, the airport offers CLEAR+ lanes and TSA PreCheck. CLEAR+ lanes use biometric identification, while TSA PreCheck is available at specific terminals. To further facilitate travellers, Delta Air Lines offers designated frequent traveller priority security lanes during peak times for select customers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Security Checkpoints | Multiple checkpoints in each terminal |
| Security Wait Times | 17 minutes on average, up to 30 minutes during peak hours |
| TSA PreCheck | Available at the Domestic Terminal South checkpoint and International Terminal Departures checkpoint |
| CLEAR+ Lanes | Available at multiple checkpoints, including Domestic Terminal Main |
| Biometric Identification | Used in CLEAR+ lanes |
| ID Requirements | All travelers 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant license or other accepted ID |
| Lost and Found | Contact Atlanta Airport's Lost and Found for items lost at checkpoints or in checked baggage |
| Physical Security | CCTV, access control, fingerprints, and badge systems |
| Contract Guard Security Services | Provides physical access control to restricted areas, conducts monthly performance reviews |
| Compliance and Enforcement | Conducts inspections on aircraft, vehicles, ramps, construction sites, tenants, terminal doors, alarm response time, and the Hartsfield-Jackson incentive program |
| Sky Priority® | Offers expedited security, designated priority security lanes during peak times |
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What You'll Learn
Security wait times and how to skip the queue
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers multiple security checkpoints in each terminal. The current average security wait time is 17 minutes, but this can increase to 30 minutes during peak hours, especially at weekends.
To skip the queue, it is beneficial to register in advance for TSA PreCheck, which offers a smoother experience. TSA PreCheck is open from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the main checkpoint.
Additionally, Atlanta Airport has a CLEAR facility to expedite screening procedures. CLEAR can be found at the domestic terminal near the main security checkpoint. CLEAR Plus is another option to get through security faster.
You can also download the My TSA application to check and post airport delays in real-time, as well as review tips for travellers. For live updates, you can contact Atlanta Airport staff via phone or social media.
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TSA PreCheck and CLEAR+ lanes
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with thousands of flights departing and arriving daily. The high volume of passengers can significantly impact security checkpoint wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) run by the TSA that allows passengers to access designated security screening lanes. To use the TSA PreCheck lanes, passengers must enrol in the program, pay a fee, and be approved. The PreCheck lanes use biometric scanning, which reduces processing times and the chances of error. The lanes are available in the Domestic Terminal South from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. and in the International Terminal Departures from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
CLEAR is a private security company that offers a membership called CLEAR Plus. CLEAR Plus uses biometric data to expedite the identity verification part of the security screening process. Once their identity is verified, travellers can proceed to the luggage screening lanes. CLEAR Plus can be used in conjunction with TSA PreCheck for even faster security processing. The CLEAR Plus Lane is available in the International Terminal, and members can access their gates quickly using the Plane Train.
The combination of CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck can significantly reduce wait times, especially during peak hours. The use of biometric checks in CLEAR speeds up the initial ID process, and TSA PreCheck allows passengers to keep their shoes and light jackets on, further simplifying the security process. Data indicates that the shortened waits can cause a 20% decline in delays and contribute to a more efficient flow of passengers through the airport, which can have a positive impact on the local economy.
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ID requirements
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has multiple security checkpoints in each terminal. To avoid long security queues, it is beneficial to register in advance for TSA PreCheck, which is open from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the main checkpoint. The airport also has a CLEAR facility to expedite screening procedures.
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports for domestic flights. REAL ID-compliant forms of identification include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
Passengers who do not have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification. TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after expiration. Children under 18 travelling within the United States are not required to provide identification.
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Banned items
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport offers multiple security checkpoints in each terminal, with an average security wait time of 17 minutes, but this can increase to 30 minutes during peak hours. To avoid long security queues, passengers can register in advance for TSA PreCheck, which is open from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the main checkpoint.
Passengers are advised to check their carry-ons for prohibited items, as nearly a ton of banned items are brought to Atlanta airport security checkpoints each month. This includes:
- Guns and other weapons, including knives and blades
- Self-defence items like pepper spray and stun guns
- Anything that can be used as a bludgeon, including dumbbells
- Liquids in quantities greater than 3.4 oz.
In addition to these banned items, Atlanta City Council has passed legislation to ban single-use plastics throughout its services and businesses, including at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. This means that passengers will not be able to purchase single-use plastic items such as plastic bags, polystyrene, and plastic straws within the airport.
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Physical security and restricted areas
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has multiple security checkpoints in each terminal, making it convenient for travellers. The average security wait time is 17 minutes, but it can go up to 30 minutes during peak hours. The busiest times are usually between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., as well as days before and after holidays and long weekends.
To expedite the screening procedure, Atlanta Airport has a CLEAR facility, which can be found at the domestic terminal near the main security checkpoint. CLEAR Plus is a biometric-based program that allows passengers to enter dedicated security checkpoint lanes.
Passengers should arrive at the airport at least two hours before scheduled domestic departures and three hours before international departures. Only ticketed passengers are allowed through TSA security checkpoints.
As per the City of Atlanta Code of Ordinances, all areas of the airport except those open to the public are restricted. This includes the landing field, runways, taxiways, non-licensed vehicle roads, ramps, air operations areas, hangars, aprons, concourses, and public aircraft departure areas. To enter these restricted areas, individuals must possess and display proper identification, such as a valid SIDA badge issued by the aviation general manager or other FAA-approved identification.
Additionally, Delta Air Lines offers designated frequent traveller priority security lanes during peak times for select customers, including Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members.
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Frequently asked questions
Atlanta Airport has multiple security checkpoints in each terminal, which are accessible from any concourse or gate.
The current average security wait time is 17 minutes, but you can expect up to 30 minutes during peak hours.
You can check the official Atlanta Airport website, call, or check social media platforms for live updates.
TSA PreCheck offers expedited security screening at Atlanta Airport. It is open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM at the main checkpoint.
Prohibited items at Atlanta Airport security include pocket knives, scissors, and other sharp objects.
