Plan to arrive at LAX 2h 15m before a domestic flight or 3h 15m for international. TSA lines average ~21 minutes and 81% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to LAX?
Los Angeles International — Los Angeles
Recommended Arrival
2h 15m
before a domestic flight
3h 15m for international
~21m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
81%
On time
70m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
8 AM (30-36 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Terminal info at LAX
Terminals: Terminal 1 (Southwest), Terminal 2, Terminal 3 (Delta), Terminal 4 (American), Terminal 5, Terminal 6 (Alaska/JetBlue), Terminal 7 (United), Terminal 8 (United), Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT)
Getting around: Landside shuttle buses between terminals; some airside connectors exist between adjacent terminals
Transit time: 15-30 minutes between most terminals due to landside transfers
Re-screening: Some terminal changes require going through TSA again. Most terminal changes require exiting to the street level and re-entering through TSA. Limited airside connectors exist: TBIT connects to Terminal 4 (American), and Terminals 7-8 are connected airside.
Tips for arriving at LAX
- →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 LAX (LAX) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at LAX 2h 15m before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at LAX average around 21 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 81%. 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 LAX for an international flight?
For international flights from LAX, arrive 3h 15m 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 LAX?
The fastest time through TSA at LAX is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 8 AM (30-36 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at LAX?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at LAX 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 LAX?
TSA wait times at LAX are currently around about 18-24 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 8 AM (30-36 minutes).