Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) Wait Time & TSA Details

On average, DFW Airport wait times are usually less than 10 minutes during non-busy hours. However, during peak times, like early mornings, late afternoons, weekends, and holidays, lines can take 30 minutes or longer. Terminal D, which handles many international flights, often has longer wait times due to added screening procedures.

Because of this, DFW Airport recommends that passengers arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights to ensure enough time for check-in and security. To help travellers get through security faster, DFW Airport offers several expedited screening programs, such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR.

Current Average DFW Security Wait Times

Passengers going through security at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport can expect to wait around 10 to 20 minutes at every security checkpoint.

DFW Airport Security Wait Time General

DFW security wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and terminal traffic. In general, early mornings (before 7 AM) and late evenings (after 8 PM) tend to be less crowded, with wait times averaging 5 to 10 minutes. Mid-morning (8 AM to 11 AM) and late afternoon (4 PM to 6 PM) are peak travel periods, where lines can stretch to 15 to 25 minutes depending on the terminal.

DFW Airport TSA Wait Time

The current average TSA wait time at DFW security checkpoints is based on Pacific Standard Time. Passengers should expect to wait up to around 23 minutes to get through security.

Security Programs & Special Lanes to Reduce DFW Security Wait Times

To speed up the security process, the airport offers expedited security screening Programs, such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and automated screening lanes.

TSA PreCheck: This program allows pre-screened travellers to pass through security without removing shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops from bags, or liquids from carry-on luggage.

CLEAR: It provides a faster, touchless experience by using biometrics to verify identity, allowing members to bypass the traditional document check and proceed directly to the screening process.

Automated Screening Lanes: To further streamline the screening process, Automated Screening Lanes are available at several checkpoints.

Additionally, DFW Airport offers dedicated Known Crew Members lanes for eligible airline employees to expedite their security screening process.

Customs wait time at DFW Airport

At Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, passengers arriving at DFW Terminal D typically experience customs wait times ranging from approximately 15 to 45 minutes, depending on queue lengths and random secondary screenings. Passengers can use several expedited programs to reduce wait time at customs:

• Global Entry
• Mobile Passport Control (MPC)