Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the country, with four terminals and flights to destinations across the U.S. and worldwide. With so many passengers moving through every day, it helps to understand the Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Check-In process before you arrive. Knowing what you must expect may make the journey from curbside to your gate much easier and far less stressful.
If you’re flying domestically, the ORD Check-In process is usually straightforward. You’ll check in with your airline, whether online, at a self-service kiosk, or at the counter—and then head to TSA security screening. For international travel, there’s an extra step. In addition to checking in, you’ll need to have your passport and any required travel documents verified at the airline counter before continuing through security.
Overview of Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Check-In
Once you know your options, checking in at ORD is pretty straightforward. Passengers can choose among online check-in (the most convenient option), fast self-service kiosks, or traditional airport check-in counters. Here’s a summary to help you have a smooth start to your journey and avoid unnecessary waiting.
Online Check-In:
Flying out of ORD? Online check-in can really simplify your trip there. Generally, airlines allow you to check in on their website or mobile app, often as early as 24 hours before your flight. You might be able to select your seat, download or print your boarding pass, and avoid the airport queues.
If your luggage is carry-on only, you can proceed directly to security. On the other hand, if you have luggage to check in, leave it at the counter and proceed.
Self-Service Kiosks:
Terminal check-in areas at ORD are equipped with self-service kiosks. Travelers can use these kiosks to:
- Print boarding passes
- Print baggage tags
Once luggage is tagged, travelers must proceed to the airline’s baggage drop counter to complete the process. If you have no checked baggage, you can proceed directly through security with your handbag.
Airport Check-In Counters:
Full-service airline counters can be found at each terminal of ORD and offer various passenger services. Passengers may check their luggage, have their travel documents verified, request special assistance, arrange group check-ins, or seek assistance with ticketing issues. Before proceeding to security screening, those flying internationally must first have their passport and other travel documents verified at an airline counter.
Chicago O’Hare Terminals Check-In Locations
Walking around the terminals becomes simpler when you know your check-in point. Since four functioning terminals accommodate both domestic and international flights, referring to the ORD TERMINAL MAP before you arrive can help you navigate confidently and start your journey in a smooth, hassle-free way.
- Terminal 1: Terminal 1 mainly handles flights of United Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Lufthansa. The check-in counters are on the upper departure level.
- Terminal 2: Terminal 2 is the home of several domestic and regional airlines like Air Canada and Alaska Airlines. Check-in counters are situated in the main departure hall.
- Terminal 3: Terminal 3 serves some of the major U.S. airlines, and among them is American Airlines. The check-in counters can be found on the level from which the flights depart.
- Terminal 5 (International Terminal): Terminal 5 is primarily used for international departures and arrivals. Some of the prominent airlines include Arajet and Austrian Airlines. For international passengers, it is necessary to go through:
- passport control
- visa and travel document checks (if applicable)
Recommended Check-In Arrival Times at ORD
Passengers are advised to verify the recommended arrival times directly with their airline. Nevertheless, common airline recommendations are:
- Domestic flights: Arrive at least two hours before departure
- International flights: Arrive a minimum of three hours prior to departure
Travelers are advised to allow extra time when going through airports during peak travel seasons, holidays, and for early morning departures, when there is usually a lot of airport traffic.
Baggage Check-In & Drop Process at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Once passengers have completed their check-in (online, kiosk, or counter), they can deal with the baggage drop if they are carrying checked luggage.
Standard process:
- Tag baggage (if using kiosks).
- Proceed to your airline’s baggage drop counter.
- Confirm baggage routing for connecting flights.
Any oversize or special baggage should be handled as per the airline’s policy. Passengers who have connecting flights, at the time of check-in, should confirm with the airline how their baggage will be transferred so as to get hassle-free handling.
Security Screening After Check-In
After baggage drop, passengers will go to the TSA security checkpoint, which is located in each terminal.
Security screening includes:
- Government-issued ID verification
- Boarding pass confirmation
- Carry-on baggage inspection
TSA PreCheck lanes might be accessible for qualified travelers, allowing them to enjoy faster screening privileges.
TSA Screening Process at Chicago O’Hare Explained
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for all the security screening at O’Hare. They maintain passenger safety and ensure smooth checkpoint operations across the terminals.
Preparing for TSA Screening at ORD
TSA suggests that you be ready even before you get to the airport. Here are some points that travelers should consider:
- Make sure your luggage doesn’t contain any items that the airline prohibits.
- Keep your identification and boarding pass handy for the security check.
- Remove liquid containers and large electronic devices (including laptops) from your carry-on baggage.
- Remove your shoes, outerwear, bulky jewelry, and empty your pockets while standing in line at the airport.
- Put the valuable stuff in one of the bags that you carry onboard for safekeeping.
TSA ConfirmID
Starting from February 1, 2026, travelers without presenting an acceptable form of identification, including non-REAL ID-compliant state-issued IDs, may authenticate their identity via TSA ConfirmID.
TSA ConfirmID is a chargeable, updated identity verification method that was developed to enhance aviation security. It ensures compliance with federal requirements and deters unauthorized access to domestic aviation systems.
Travelers are encouraged to carry REAL ID-compliant identification to avoid additional processing.
TSA PreCheck at ORD
Eligible travelers can sign up for TSA PreCheck. This means they will be able to go through an expedited screening process at any checkpoints that participate in the program.
Benefits of TSA PreCheck include:
- No need to remove shoes
- Laptops and liquids may remain in carry-on bags.
- Shorter, dedicated screening lanes
The program is open to low-risk travelers who are vetted, including U.S. Armed Forces service members (including Coast Guard, Reserves, and National Guard). TSA PreCheck lanes are available at certain checkpoints at ORD, depending on the terminal and time of day.
TSA Checkpoint Hours at O’Hare
Checkpoint hours vary by terminal and can change based on airport activity. To be on the safe side, passengers ought to keep up with flight schedules through their airline.
| Terminal | Checkpoint | Operating Hours | TSA PreCheck® Hours |
| Terminal 1 | CP1 | 4:00 am – 8:30 pm | Standard Screening |
| CP2 | 4:15 am – 8:30 pm | 4:00 am – 8:30 pm | |
| CP3 | 4:00 am – 6:00 pm | Standard Screening | |
| Terminal 2 | CP5 | 3:15 am – 11:00 pm | 3:30 am – 8:00 pm |
| Terminal 3 | CP6 | 3:45 am – 8:00 pm | Standard Screening |
| CP7 | 3:30 am – 9:00 pm | Standard Screening | |
| CP7A | 3:15 am – 10:00 pm | 4:15 am – 7:30 pm | |
| CP8 | 5:00 am – 7:00 pm | 5:00 am – 7:00 pm | |
| CP9 | Temporarily Closed | — | |
| Terminal 5 | CP10 | Open 24 Hours | Standard Screening |
| CP11 | 12:30 pm – 8:30 pm | Standard Screening |
What Items Are Prohibited at Airport Security?
When you know the list of prohibited items, navigating the security seems easy and seamless.
3-1-1 Liquids Rule
Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes have to adhere to TSA’s 3-1-1 rule:
- The containers are only allowed up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) of liquid.
- Only one quart-size clear plastic bag is allowed. All the containers must fit into this bag.
- The bag must be removed and placed in a screening bin.
Checking for Prohibited Items
Detection of prohibited items slows down screening lines. Travelers can use the “What Can I Bring?” search tool on TSA.gov to confirm whether specific items are allowed in carry-on or checked baggage.
TSA Cares: Assistance for Travelers with Disabilities
For travelers with disabilities, medical issues, or unique situations, TSA provides a helpline, TSA Cares. This service helps passengers understand the screening process and gives information on various assistance options.
Passengers can call (855) 787-2227 three days before the trip to discuss screening regulations and learn what to expect. Members of the military who are injured, veterans, and people involved with wounded warrior programs should definitely take advantage of this resource for extra help.
Global Entry:
Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that provides quicker processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when they arrive in the United States. Although the program is primarily designed for frequent international travelers, you are not required to meet a minimum number of trips to be eligible. Members can enter the U.S. via automated kiosks at select airports.
Conclusion:
You don’t have to worry about the Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) check-in. In addition to online check-in, all four terminals have self-service kiosks and full-service counters, offering a variety of options. Planning, arriving on time, and checking your airline’s requirements will make getting on track easier. Whether you’re traveling domestically or abroad, a little preparation will make departing from ORD easier and less stressful.
FAQs
The majority of airlines suggest that passengers arrive at least three hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. However, it is recommended to double-check the exact arrival time with your airline.
Yes. Most airlines at ORD allow passengers to check in online via website or mobile apps. Typically, this service becomes available 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
You may verify your airline’s terminal assignment through the airport website or by calling them on their respective numbers.
Yes. Same-day ticket changes and flight modifications must be handled directly at your airline’s check-in counter.
After you have completed your online check-in, you can proceed to the baggage drop counter designated by your airline in your terminal.