John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) Security Wait Times & TSA Details
For the passengers flying through JFK airport, the average security wait is 15 to 30 minutes. However, wait times at JFK can rise up to 45 to 60 minutes during the peak travel hours, i.e. early morning, late night hours, weekends and holiday seasons. Travellers can enroll in expedited screening programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR to save time at security lanes. Also, they should reach 2 hours earlier before departure to avoid last-minute stress.
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Current JFK Security Wait Times
| Terminal | Wait Times |
|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | 1 mins |
| Terminal 4 | 3 mins |
| Terminal 5 | 7 mins |
| Terminal 7 | 2 mins |
| Terminal 8 | 2 mins |
Security Wait Times at JFK Airport (General)
| 12 am to 1 am | 15 mins |
| 1 am to 2 am | 32 mins |
| 2 am to 3 am | 0 mins |
| 3 am to 4 am | 12 mins |
| 4 am to 5 am | 12 mins |
| 5 am to 6 am | 28 mins |
| 6 am to 7 am | 16 mins |
| 7 am to 8 am | 19 mins |
| 8 am to 9 am | 6 mins |
| 9 am to 10 am | 29 mins |
| 10 am to 11 am | 11 mins |
| 11 am to 12 pm | 13 mins |
| 12 pm to 1 pm | 6 mins |
| 1 pm to 2 pm | 15 mins |
| 2 pm to 3 pm | 17 mins |
| 3 pm to 4 pm | 23 mins |
| 4 pm to 5 pm | 9 mins |
| 5 pm to 6 pm | 15 mins |
| 6 pm to 7 pm | 17 mins |
| 7 pm to 8 pm | 7 mins |
| 8 pm to 9 pm | 13 mins |
| 9 pm to 10 pm | 12 mins |
| 10 pm to 11 pm | 10 mins |
| 11 pm to 12 pm | 14 mins |
JFK Airport TSA Wait Times
For TSA screening specifically, passengers usually wait around 20 to 35 minutes on regular days.
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Expedited Security Screening Program at JFK Airport
To speed up the security screening process, the airport offers special screening programs.
TSA PreCheck: It allows eligible passengers to move through dedicated lanes with expedited screening. Travellers don’t need to remove shoes, belts, or laptops, saving valuable time.
CLEAR: JFK Airport provides CLEAR security, but it is available at a specific terminal. This program offers biometric verification for quicker identity checks, helping passengers skip the standard ID line. CLEAR members can pair the service with TSA PreCheck for the fastest security experience at JFK.
| Location | Terminal 4 |
| Operating Hours | 4:30 am to 10:00 pm |
RESERVE: For passengers departing from Terminal 4, the JFK Terminal 4 RESERVE program offers a free service that allows travellers to book a specific time slot for security screening. By making a reservation in advance, passengers can join a dedicated virtual queue lane, reducing the time spent waiting in the general security line.
Knowing the JFK wait times security and planning accordingly can make the travel experience much smoother.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
JFK Airport wait times usually ranges between 15 and 40 minutes, depending on the time of day and season.
It is recommended to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
By enrolling in TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or using RESERVE services.
Yes, TSA PreCheck lanes are available in all terminals at JFK Airport.
CLEAR lanes are available at Terminal 4 at JFK for enrolled members.
Yes, these two programs can be used together for the fastest possible security experience.