TSA wait times at ATL vary significantly based on the day, time, and season. On average, travelers can expect to wait anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. However, during holiday travel, severe weather, or early morning business rushes, that number can spike dramatically.
Here’s a general breakdown of what you might encounter:
Weekdays (Monday–Friday)
Morning (5 AM–9 AM): 30–60 minutes
Midday (10 AM–2 PM): 15–25 minutes
Evening (4 PM–8 PM): 25–45 minutes
Weekends (Saturday–Sunday)
Morning: 20–40 minutes
Afternoon: 15–30 minutes
Evening: 20–35 minutes
To avoid unpleasant surprises, check real-time
atl tsa wait times before leaving for the airport.
TSA Checkpoint Locations and the Smart Way to Choose One
Knowing where to go is half the battle. ATL has multiple TSA checkpoints spread across its domestic and international terminals:
Main Security (North and South Terminals)
These are the most commonly used checkpoints. North serves primarily Delta passengers, while South serves others. Both are busy, especially during morning hours.
International Terminal (Concourse F)
Open to all ticketed passengers, this checkpoint is often less crowded and can be a hidden shortcut—especially if you're not checking bags.
TSA PreCheck Lanes
Available at all main checkpoints, these lanes are a must-have for frequent travelers.
CLEAR Lanes
ATL supports CLEAR, which allows travelers to skip the initial ID check line using biometric data.
Pro tip: If you’re flying domestically and not checking a bag, consider entering through the International Terminal to bypass long lines.
