Plan to arrive at ORD 2h 30m before a domestic flight or 3h 30m for international. TSA lines average ~33 minutes and 77% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to ORD?
O'Hare International — Chicago
Recommended Arrival
2h 30m
before a domestic flight
3h 30m for international
~33m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
77%
On time
79m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
8 AM (31-37 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Terminal info at ORD
Terminals: Terminal 1 (United), Terminal 2 (Delta, United domestic), Terminal 3 (American, Spirit), Terminal 5 (International)
Getting around: ATS automated train connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Terminal 5 requires a separate bus or train.
Transit time: 5-10 minutes between Terminals 1-3; 15-25 minutes to/from Terminal 5
Re-screening: Some terminal changes require going through TSA again. Connections involving Terminal 5 (international) require exiting security and re-screening. Terminals 1-3 are connected post-security.
Tips for arriving at ORD
- →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 O'Hare (ORD) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at ORD 2h 30m before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at ORD average around 33 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 77%. 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 ORD for an international flight?
For international flights from ORD, arrive 3h 30m 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 ORD?
The fastest time through TSA at ORD is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 8 AM (31-37 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at ORD?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at ORD 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 ORD?
TSA wait times at ORD are currently around about 30-36 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 8 AM (31-37 minutes).