Plan to arrive at DEN 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours for international. TSA lines average ~13 minutes and 78% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to DEN?
Denver International — Denver
Recommended Arrival
2 hours
before a domestic flight
3 hours for international
~13m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
78%
On time
68m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
5 PM (27-33 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Terminal info at DEN
Terminals: Jeppesen Terminal (check-in/baggage), Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C
Getting around: Automated train connects Jeppesen Terminal to all three concourses
Transit time: 5-8 minutes between concourses via the underground train
Re-screening: No re-screening needed between terminals. All concourses are connected post-security via the underground train system. International arrivals clear customs on Concourse A and can connect without re-screening.
Tips for arriving at DEN
- →Morning flights are best — less delay risk, shorter TSA lines, calmer weather.
- →Check in online — skip the counter and go straight to security with a mobile boarding pass.
- →TSA PreCheck saves time — typically 5-10 minutes vs. standard lanes. $78 for 5 years.
- →Holidays need more buffer — add 30-45 minutes around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer peaks.
Common questions
How early should I get to Denver International (DIA) (DEN) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at DEN 2 hours before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at DEN average around 13 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 78%. The fastest time through security is 4 AM (5 min). Add extra time if you're checking bags or traveling during peak hours.
How early should I get to DEN for an international flight?
For international flights from DEN, arrive 3 hours before departure. International check-in counters close 60 minutes before departure, and you may need extra time for passport control and security screening. Airlines recommend 3 hours for international departures.
What is the best time to go through security at DEN?
The fastest time through TSA at DEN is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 5 PM (27-33 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at DEN?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at DEN are significantly faster — typically 5-10 minutes vs. the standard line. PreCheck members keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave laptops in bags. If you fly more than twice a year, PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) pays for itself quickly.
How long are TSA wait times at DEN?
TSA wait times at DEN are currently around about 10-16 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 5 PM (27-33 minutes).