Plan to arrive at SFO 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours for international. TSA lines average ~18 minutes and 76% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to SFO?
San Francisco International — San Francisco
Recommended Arrival
2 hours
before a domestic flight
3 hours for international
~18m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
76%
On time
69m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
8 AM (28-34 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Terminal info at SFO
Terminals: Terminal 1 (Southwest, JetBlue), Terminal 2 (Alaska, American), Terminal 3 (United), International Terminal (A & G gates)
Getting around: AirTrain connects all terminals; Terminals 1-3 have airside connectors
Transit time: 5-15 minutes between terminals depending on route
Re-screening: Some terminal changes require going through TSA again. Connections between the International Terminal and domestic terminals may require re-screening. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 are connected airside via walkways.
Tips for arriving at SFO
- →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 SFO (SFO) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at SFO 2 hours before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at SFO average around 18 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 76%. 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 SFO for an international flight?
For international flights from SFO, 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 SFO?
The fastest time through TSA at SFO is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 8 AM (28-34 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at SFO?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at SFO 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 SFO?
TSA wait times at SFO are currently around about 15-21 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 8 AM (28-34 minutes).