Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. With its vast size and heavy daily traffic, one of the biggest concerns travelers face is LAX Airport security wait times. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, knowing what to expect before arriving at the airport can save you from stress, missed flights, and unnecessary frustration.

This guide covers everything you need to know about LAX security wait times—including average processing times, peak hours, TSA PreCheck benefits, CLEAR services, and practical tips to make your airport experience smoother.

Why Security Wait Times at LAX Matter

Security checkpoints are mandatory for all passengers, and at a hub as busy as Los Angeles International, wait times can fluctuate drastically. Factors like flight schedules, the day of the week, holidays, and staffing levels can all impact how long you’ll stand in line.

Understanding LAX Airport security wait times gives you the chance to plan better, arrive at the airport at the right time, and avoid unnecessary delays. Frequent travelers know that a little preparation can make the difference between rushing to your gate and enjoying a stress-free boarding process.

Average LAX Security Wait Times

On average, security wait times at LAX can range anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and terminal. While some travelers breeze through security in just 15 minutes, others may face lines stretching past 60 minutes during peak periods.

Here are some general wait time estimates at LAX:

• Early Morning (4 AM – 8 AM): 20–40 minutes. Popular time for domestic flights.
• Late Morning to Early Afternoon (9 AM – 1 PM): 25–50 minutes. Moderate crowds.
• Afternoon Rush (1 PM – 4 PM): 30–60 minutes. Heavier traffic, especially on weekdays.
• Evening (5 PM – 9 PM): 40–70 minutes. International departures often cause long lines.
• Late Night (10 PM – 1 AM): 15–30 minutes. Fewer crowds, but staffing may be limited.

Keep in mind these are averages—holiday weekends, summer vacation, and special events in Los Angeles can easily push wait times higher.

Which Terminals Have the Longest Wait Times?

LAX has nine passenger terminals, and each has different levels of traffic depending on the airlines they serve. Some terminals consistently report longer waits due to international flights and heavy passenger volumes.

• Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT): Often the busiest, with security wait times frequently exceeding 60 minutes. This is where most long-haul international flights depart.