DEN · Denver International Airport

DEN TSA Wait Times

Live security checkpoint wait times at Denver International Airport. Both checkpoints are on Level 6 of the Jeppesen Terminal.

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Current Wait Times

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Checkpoint Information

✅ East Security

Level 6 · Northeast end of terminal
3:00am–1:00am
Standard & CLEAR

✅ East Security (PreCheck)

Level 6 · Northeast end of terminal
3:00am–1:00am
TSA Pre✓ & CLEAR with PreCheck

✅ West Security

Level 6 · Adjacent to United check-in
4:00am–7:30pm
Standard & CLEAR

✅ West Security (PreCheck)

Level 6 · Adjacent to United check-in
4:00am–7:30pm
TSA Pre✓ & CLEAR with PreCheck

Travel Tips

⏰ How early to arrive

  • Domestic flights: 2 hours before departure
  • International flights: 3 hours before departure
  • East Security open earlier (3am) — better for early flights
  • After screening, allow 5–15 min walk to your gate via train

⚡ Speed through security

  • Both checkpoints have TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and standard lanes
  • New technology — electronics can stay in bags (both checkpoints)
  • Facial recognition optional at both checkpoints
  • Check current wait times and choose the shorter line

🗺️ Which checkpoint to use

  • Flying Southwest? → East Security (next to Southwest check-in)
  • Flying United? → West Security (next to United check-in)
  • Both checkpoints serve ALL gates — choose by shortest line
  • Triple escalator or elevator to train level after screening

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to DEN's South Security checkpoint?

South Security permanently closed on August 5, 2025, replaced by the new East Security checkpoint. All security at DEN is now on Level 6 with both East and West checkpoints.

What are the hours for DEN security checkpoints?

East Security is open 3:00am–1:00am daily. West Security is open 4:00am–7:30pm daily. East Security opens earlier, making it the better choice for very early flights.

Does DEN have TSA PreCheck?

Yes — TSA PreCheck is available at both East and West Security checkpoints. Enter at the dedicated PreCheck entrance (Entrance 3) at either checkpoint.

How long are DEN security lines?

Denver security wait times typically range from 5–25 minutes. Both checkpoints are equally capable — check current wait times and choose the shorter line.

Is CLEAR available at DEN?

Yes — CLEAR is available at both East and West Security checkpoints. CLEAR members without TSA PreCheck must use Entrance 2. CLEAR members with TSA PreCheck should use Entrance 3.

How early should I arrive at Denver International?

Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. After clearing security on Level 6, allow an additional 5–15 minutes for the underground Commuter Train to your gate concourse (A, B, or C).

Which DEN checkpoint is fastest?

Both East and West Security checkpoints are equally capable — check real-time wait times on FlyAirGuide and choose the shorter line. East Security opens at 3:00am, making it the better option for very early departures.

Which DEN checkpoint should I use for Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines operates from Concourse C at Denver International. Both East and West Security on Level 6 serve all concourses — pick whichever has the shorter wait time.