San Francisco International Airport Security Checkpoints for Smooth Travel
Understanding SFO security wait times is crucial if you want a hassle-free trip at San Francisco International Airport. Since the airport serves a large number of passengers across its various terminals, understanding the security screening process will help you avoid lines and get to your gate on time, making your stay at the airport more peaceful. Here, we explain SFO security wait times in detail.
SFO Security Checkpoints – Know In Details
You will find security checkpoints across all terminals in SFO from entrances to the boarding areas. Ticketed passengers are the ones who are only allowed to go beyond the security checkpoints at San Francisco International Airport.
The security checkpoints not just provide general lanes, but also have TSA PreChecks, CLEAR, and Priority Lanes. You cannot bring baggage carts to the security checkpoints. When passengers have a boarding pass for the same travel date, they can enter the checkpoints of any terminals. Once passengers have got through the security checkpoints they may access all gates as well.
Operating Hours for Security Checkpoints At SFO
Here are the operating hours for security checkpoints at
- Checkpoint A
Open from 4:15 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
- Checkpoint B
Open from 3:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
- Checkpoint B – Mezzanine Level
Open from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Checkpoint D
Open from 3:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
- Checkpoint F1
Open from 3:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
- Checkpoint G
Open from 4:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Staff-Only Screening Points at San Francisco International Airport
SFO has established separate security checkpoints where airport workers holding a badge and authorized vendors who are reporting to make a delivery or give a report can be checked.
- Terminal 2
From 4:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
- Terminal 3
From 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Note: Covenant Aviation Security, a TSA-contracted private security provider, is in charge of the screening at this checkpoint. They are responsible for both passenger and baggage screening at SFO.
Accepted Security Identification at SFO
Passengers are required to show a valid identification document when going through security checks conducted by the TSA. To get the complete list of acceptable identification documents, explore the TSA website.
Since the 7th of May 2025 onwards, the airport staff isn’t accepting driver’s licenses issued by the state as well as IDs which aren’t REAL ID compliant as valid identification proof.
Recommended Arrival Times
Arrival guidelines are based on your airline and the day you fly, so check with your carrier. Don’t forget to have enough time for parking, baggage drop-off, and security checks. The TSA advises that passengers should be at the airport two hours before the departure of domestic flights and three hours before international ones.
Fast-Track Security Options
When you wish for an expedited security check you may opt for airport programs stated as below;
- CLEAR Lane Access
- CLEAR members have the option to experience a faster entry into the security lanes that are present in all SFO terminals through the use of biometric verification. You may submit your application at clearme.com.
- TSA PreCheck®
- The initiative is aimed at giving the fastest possible security check for those who are qualified through special lanes. Get details regarding enrollment on the TSA PreCheck® webpage.
Benefits of TSA PreCheck and Other Fast Track Security Options
When you have enrolled for programs like TSA PreCheck or Clear, here is how you will benefit:
- You can skip the standard security lines and opt for a faster check-in process.
- You do not have to remove your shoes, belts or jackets, or even take out your laptop from your bag.
- The wait times are shorter, like if it is around 15-20 minutes for general lines, it is reduced to around 5-7 minutes for those enrolled into TSA PreCheck.
Expedited Immigration Programs
Here is what you need to know:
Global Entry
Pre-approved, low-risk travelers can utilize this program of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to move through immigration in a speedy manner. More information can be found at globalentry.gov.
Enrollment Center (For Global Entry)
- Location: International Terminal; Arrivals level (pre security)
- Hours: Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.
- Note: Appointment required; walk-ins not accepted.
Mobile Passport Control
Using the Mobile Passport app, which is available to eligible travelers, passport and customs information can be submitted electronically, and a dedicated lane can be accessed upon arrival.
Deferred Inspection Services at SFO
When a traveler’s entry documents require a review or correction, the CBP Deferred Inspection office is there to help such travelers.
- Location: International Terminal; Arrivals level, pre security (you have to take the escalator adjacent to the food court at international terminal G)
- Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- More information is available through CBP’s Deferred Inspection Sites.
What Is SFO’s Security Wait Times?
SFO security wait times depend on many factors like the peak and non-peak hours, holiday and shoulder seasons and a lot more. Many visitors have mentioned 5 am to 9 am to be the busiest times, since they have had to experience really long lines then.
Some travellers have even mentioned that on an average with TSA PreCheck the overall wait time is not more than 5 minutes, while without TSA it is 15 minutes on an average. To avoid any hassle or inconvenience travellers are advised to reach the airport two hours before domestic flights and three hours if you have an international flight to board.
Contact Information of SFO Airport to Ensure You Have A Smooth and Seamless Travel
If you wish for real time updates regarding the security wait timings at SFO, acquiring the contact information of the airport would help you better.
| SFO Helpline | 800.435.9736/ 650.821.8211 |
| Website | flysfo.com |
| TSA Helpline | 650.266.1900/ 866.289.9673 |
| Social Media | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flySFO/ ; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flysfo/ |
SFO Security Checkpoint Map
We present you with the map below which helps you to understand the exact locations of the SFO security checkpoints in a better and more elaborate manner. For more details you may even visit our SFO Maps blog and know more.
Conclusion:
Understanding SFO Wait Times can help your travel be less stressful and more comfortable. You can move through security with assurance if you know the required documents, when you will arrive, and take advantage of an expedited screening line like TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR. Remember, a little prep work is still very handy if you are passing through SFO and about to embark on a short domestic flight.
FAQs
Usually, fewer people are seen in the queue during early mornings (before 7 a.m.) and late evenings, though it can depend on the terminal and the time of the year.
Due to the high volume of passengers, both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 can be places where you may have to wait longer during peak hours, especially on holidays and weekends.
Yes. Travelers can see the estimated wait time on the official SFO website or on airport information screens in the terminals.
Yes. SFO permits a passenger to enter any security checkpoint if the passenger has a same-day boarding pass.
Generally, international flights require more thorough document checking, so processing may take longer, especially if the airport is bustling.
Yes. TSA PreCheck® service provides a faster lane to the customer, fewer procedures, and less time in the queue. The customer is not required to remove his shoes or the laptop from the bag. At SFO many travellers have mentioned clearing the security checks with TSA within 5 minutes.