Is Chicago O’Hare’s famous reputation for long lines actually true? Well, when it comes to Chicago O’Hare security wait times, the answer largely depends on when you travel. On most days, standard screening at ORD proceeds smoothly, and many travelers pass through in about 15 to 20 minutes. However, things can look very different during peak travel windows.
Early mornings, especially between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., and late mornings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. often attract heavier crowds, and wait times can easily exceed 45 minutes. So, what’s the smart move? First, arrive a little earlier than you think you need to. Next, check the MyTSA app for real-time updates. And finally, consider TSA PreCheck for a much faster, stress-free 5 to 10-minute screening experience.
Let’s break down what you can expect so you can spend more time at the gate and less time in the queue.
ORD Security Checkpoint Hours by Terminal:
Getting through ORD airport can feel like a marathon! To make your trek easier, I have put together this handy breakdown of security checkpoint hours so you can plan your arrival like a pro.
| Terminal | Checkpoint | Operating Hours |
| Terminal 1 | CP1 | 4:00 am- 8:30 pm |
| CP2 | 4:15 am- 8:30 pm | |
| Pre✓™ | 4:00 am- 8:30 pm | |
| CP3 | 4:00 am- 6:00 pm | |
| Terminal 2 | CP5 | 3:15 am- 11:00 pm |
| Pre✓™ | 3:30 am- 8:00 pm | |
| Terminal 3 | CP6 | 3:45 am- 8:00 pm |
| CP7 | 3:30 am- 9:00 pm | |
| CP7A | 3:15 am- 10:00 pm | |
| Pre✓™ (at CP8) | 4:15 am- 7:30 pm | |
| CP8 | 5:00 am- 7:00 pm | |
| CP9 | Temporarily Closed | |
| Terminal 5 | CP10 | Open 24 Hours |
| CP11 | 12:30 pm- 8:30 pm |
How Early Should You Arrive at ORD?
Since security checks at O’Hare International Airport may take longer on some days, allow extra time before departure.
- Domestic flights: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure to complete check-in and security screening smoothly.
- International flights: Arrive at least three hours before departure to allow time for document checks, security screening, and immigration procedures.
Moreover, during peak travel seasons, holidays, or early morning departures, airport crowds increase significantly, so arriving much earlier helps avoid stress and delays.
TSA Services That Help to Lessen Security Wait Times at ORD
If you are departing from O’Hare Airport, TSA offers special programs to expedite and simplify your security screening experience. By enrolling in options like expedited screening services, you can skip longer lines and move through checkpoints more efficiently and stress-free.
TSA Pre✓™ Program
With this program low-risk travelers experience faster screening at the participating U.S. airports.
Benefits include:
- Shorter security lines
- No need to remove shoes
- Laptops and liquids can remain in bags.
- Light outerwear stays on.
Furthermore, U.S. Armed Forces members, including Coast Guard, Reserves, and National Guard personnel, are eligible for expedited screening. TSA PreCheck lanes operate at select checkpoints and hours at ORD.
TSA ConfirmID (Starting February 1, 2026)
Don’t have an updated ID? No problem. Beginning February 1, 2026, travelers without a REAL ID can verify their identity with TSA ConfirmID.
What is TSA ConfirmID?
- A fee-based alternative identity verification service
- Designed to enhance security
- Helps travelers without acceptable ID complete identity verification
- Ensures compliance with federal security standards
Therefore, think of TSA ConfirmID as a high-tech security upgrade. It prevents unauthorized access to the system while providing travelers with a faster, digital way to verify their IDs.
REAL ID Reminder
Passengers should ensure their identification complies with federal REAL ID requirements to avoid delays. If you are unsure whether your ID is compliant, check in advance before your travel date.
Known Crewmember (KCM) Access Points At Chicago O’Hare Airport
Access for Known Crewmembers is available at:
- Terminal 1: Concourse B, at the south end exit
- Terminal 2: Exit Lane, checkpoint 4A
- Terminal 3: Exit Lane, checkpoint 9
- Terminal 5: Concourse M, exit
Why Do Security Wait Times Vary at ORD?
Wait times at ORD depend on a few simple factors:
- Your flight time (early morning flights usually have the longest lines)
- Which terminal are you flying from
- Holidays and busy weekends
- Bad weather
- Ongoing construction or other airport changes
Please note that getting to the airport early and having your documents ready can help you avoid stress and last-minute delays.
Travel Tips to Reduce Security Wait Times At ORD Airport
You can breeze through security at O’Hare with just a bit of planning. Keep your ID ready, pack carefully, and arrive early to avoid stress and long lines.
Before You Reach the Security Checkpoint
- Before heading to security, quickly check your bag to make sure it doesn’t contain any prohibited items. This can help you avoid delays.
- Keep your boarding pass and a valid ID ready in your hand so you can show them easily.
- It’s also a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to take off and avoid wearing heavy jewelry, as you may need to remove it during screening.
At the Screening Area
When at the security screening area, here are the things to keep in mind:
- When you reach the screening area, remove all liquids and large electronic devices, such as laptops, from your bag.
- Empty everything from your pockets, including keys, phones, and coins.
- To keep your belongings safe, place small valuables inside your carry-on bag before putting items in the bins.
The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule
To move through security smoothly, follow the 3-1-1 rule:
- Each liquid, gel, or cream must be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less.
- All containers must fit into one clear, quart-sized plastic bag.
- Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it in a separate bin for screening.
If you bring oversized liquid containers, you may be subject to additional screening and longer wait times.
Check for Prohibited Items Before You Travel To Lessen Security Wait Times at ORD
The TSA provides a “What Can I Bring?” search tool on its website, allowing travelers to confirm whether specific items are allowed in carry-on or checked baggage. Screening delays often occur when prohibited items are detected.
Pack Smart for Faster Screening
Organize your carry-on so electronics and liquid bags are easily accessible. Efficient packing helps officers clear bags more quickly and keeps lines moving.
TSA Cares- Assistance for Travelers with Disabilities
The TSA offers TSA Cares, a helpline for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and special circumstances.
Passengers should call (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel for assistance with:
- Screening procedures
- Medical equipment
- Mobility assistance
- Service-related accommodations
Injured service members, veterans, and individuals associated with wounded warrior programs are encouraged to contact TSA Cares for facilitated screening.
Conclusion:
Security at O’Hare isn’t always a nightmare; it just depends on when you show up. Most days it’s pretty quick, but expect a crowd during holidays or early morning rushes. Your best bet is to arrive early, use the MyTSA app to check wait times, and enroll in TSA PreCheck if you can. A little prep goes a long way in keeping your stress levels down.
FAQs:
On regular days, wait times are 15-20 minutes; during peak hours,, they can exceed 45 minutes.
Early mornings (4 a.m.- 5 a.m.) and late mornings (11 a.m.- 1 p.m.) are typically the busiest.
You should arrive at least two hours before departure if you have to board a domestic flight.
You must plan to arrive at least three hours before departure for international flights to save yourself from any inconvenience.
Yes, TSA PreCheck lanes are available at select checkpoints and operating hours.
Liquids should measure 3.4 oz or 100 ml or less, placed in one clear quart-sized bag, and removed for screening.