SMF TSA Wait Times & Sacramento Airport Security Wait Times Updates

Sacramento Airport security wait times usually take 10 minutes to pass, but passengers may face additional time due to the crowd. It has only two security checkpoints, one in each terminal, with specific working hours. However, those with TSA PreCheck enrollments can skip the long queues and pass through security faster. Additionally, internationally arriving flyers must go through the customs office at Terminal B before leaving the airport. 

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Standard SMF Security Wait Times

Sacramento Security wait times typically range from 10 to 30 minutes, though they can increase during peak hours (early mornings, late afternoons). 

AM TimingsAverage Wait TimePM TimingsAverage Wait Time
12 to 10 minutes 12 to 116 to 20 minutes
1 to 20 minutes1 to 218 minutes
2 to 30 minutes2 to 35 to 7 minutes
3 to 40 minutes3 to 46 minutes
4 to 525 to 30 minutes4 to 55 minutes
5 to 615 minutes5 to 616 to 20 minutes
6 to 76 to 7 minutes6 to 710 minutes
7 to 85 minutes7 to 82 minutes
8 to 912 to 15 minutes8 to 93 to 5 minutes
9 to 10 10 minutes9 to 10 4 minutes
10 to 118 to 10 minutes10 to 115 to10 minutes
11 to 1218 to 20 minutes11 to 12Less than 5 minutes

Sacramento Airport Security Checkpoints

SMF Airport contains two main security checkpoints with TSA PreCheck facilities in each terminal. 

TerminalLocationTiming
Terminal ALevel 1, adjacent to Starbucks4 a.m. to 12 a.m., every day.
Terminal BLevel 3, near DOCO market4 a.m. to 12 a.m., daily.

SMF TSA Wait Times

Passengers can access the real-time updates on SMF TSA wait times from the following table. They must ensure the timings of the checkpoints are after midnight till the early morning, as these remain closed. 

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Current Wait PreCheck Available
less than one minute ✅ Yes

TSA Pre-Check Checkpoints

Terminal Checkpoint Status
Terminal A Terminal A Checkpoint Open
Terminal B Terminal B Checkpoint Closed

Current Average TSA Wait Times at Sacramento International (SMF)

Time Slot Wait (mins)
4 am - 5 am 16.7 min
5 am - 6 am 17.4 min
6 am - 7 am 14.1 min
7 am - 8 am 41.1 min
8 am - 9 am 13.4 min
9 am - 10 am 14.3 min
10 am - 11 am 14 min
11 am - 12 pm 10.7 min
12 pm - 1 pm 14.1 min
1 pm - 2 pm 12.3 min
2 pm - 3 pm 12.3 min
3 pm - 4 pm 11.9 min
4 pm - 5 pm 19 min
5 pm - 6 pm 12.3 min
6 pm - 7 pm 10.6 min
7 pm - 8 pm 9 min
8 pm - 9 pm 7.8 min
9 pm - 10 pm 7.8 min
10 pm - 11 pm 5.4 min

Customs SMF Security Wait Times

Every passenger arriving from outside the United States must proceed to the Customs and Border Protection office at Terminal B. They must carry all essential documents, including passports, declarations, IDs, and more. The airport doesn’t have any Global Entry or other programs activated at present to expedite the process.

  • Location: 6900 Airport Boulevard, Terminal B, Sacramento, CA 95837. 
  • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Phone Number: +1 916 649 3671

At SMF Airport, customers can expect to clear security within 10 to 20 minutes. But they must take some extra time, especially while moving through the general lines, by arriving at least 2 to 3 hours before departure. Moreover, if someone doesn’t have a valid TSA ID, they can purchase a temporary ID at $45 fee. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to clear security at Sacramento Airport?

Security wait times at Sacramento International Airport range between 10 and 30 minutes, though during non-peak hours, it may take as little as 10 minutes.

What are the busiest times for security at SMF Airport?

The busiest times are usually early mornings (4 a.m. to 6 a.m.) and late afternoons to early evenings (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) when wait times can reach up to 30 minutes.

How many security checkpoints are available at SMF Airport?

SMF Airport has two main security checkpoints, with one located in each terminal: Terminal A and Terminal B.

Where are the security checkpoints located at SMF Airport?

At SMF Terminal A Level 1, near Starbucks, and at Terminal B Level 3, near DOCO Market.

What are the operating hours of TSA checkpoints at SMF Airport?

Security checkpoints at SMF Airport operate daily from 4 a.m. to 12 a.m. and remain closed during late-night hours.

Can TSA PreCheck help reduce wait times at SMF Airport?

Yes, passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck can use dedicated lanes at both terminals, allowing them to clear security faster and avoid long queues.

Where do international passengers go for customs at SMF Airport?

All international arrivals must proceed to the Customs and Border Protection office in Terminal B before exiting the airport.

How early should I arrive at SMF Airport before my flight?

Passengers are advised to arrive at least 2 to 3 hours before departure, especially during peak hours, to allow sufficient time for security and check-in procedures.

Disclaimer: The information provided on AirlineAirport.com is for general informational purposes only. We are not an official website and are not affiliated with any airline, airport, or aviation authority.