Reagan National Airport Security Wait Times Guide
Are you flying via Reagan Airport? Our comprehensive guide is here to assist you in smoothly navigating through the airport's security checkpoints. We provide precise locations and operating hours for each checkpoint, plus information about expedited screening programs like TSA Pre and CLEAR Plus. Whether you're an experienced jet-setter or a first-time flyer, our guide aims to streamline your experience at Reagan National Airport, guaranteeing a quick and hassle-free journey.
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Traveling through Reagan National Airport (DCA) just got easier! Bypass the stress and time-consuming lines with CLEAR Plus. This service offers expedited security screening, saving you time and offering a seamless travel experience. What's more, in partnership with iFly, we are offering a 2 Months Free promotion! Sign up now and transform your travel experience at DCA and other participating airports nationwide.
DCA Flight Delays
Before embarking on your journey from Reagan Airport, it's always wise to check for any possible departure delays. In addition, you can make use of our handy flight tracker, which enables you to keep an eye on the status of a particular flight.
Security Checkpoints - Location & Hours
DCA Terminal A Checkpoint
- Location: Gates 1 - 10
- Type: All passengers and TSA PreCheck
- Hours: Opens daily 4:30 AM
- TSA PreCheck Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM
- CLEAR (Lane and Enrollment): Sunday through Friday - 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday - 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
DCA Terminal B South Checkpoint
- Location: Gates 10 - 22
- Type: All passengers and TSA PreCheck
- Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM, or until last scheduled departure
- TSA PreCheck Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM
- CLEAR (Lane and Enrollment): Sunday through Friday - 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday - 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
DCA Terminal B/C Center Checkpoint
- Location: Gates 23 - 34
- Type: All passengers
- Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM, or until last scheduled departure
- TSA PreCheck Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM
- CLEAR (Lane and Enrollment): Sunday through Friday - 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday - 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM
DCA Terminal C North Checkpoint
- Location: Gates 35 - 45
- Type: All passengers and TSA PreCheck
- Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM - 9:00 PM, or until last scheduled departure
- TSA PreCheck Hours: Opens daily 4:00 AM
- CLEAR (Lane and Enrollment): Sunday through Friday - 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday - 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM
TSA PreCheck at DCA
The TSA PreCheck program offers an expedited security screening process at participating airports, including Reagan National Airport (DCA). This program allows members to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, as well as keep their laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in their carry-on bags during security checks.
Where to Use TSA PreCheck at DCA:
- TSA PreCheck is available at Terminal A, Terminal B South, and Terminal C North Checkpoints within DCA.
- This service is designed for select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs.
Learn More About TSA PreCheck:
- For detailed information on how to enroll in TSA PreCheck, visit iFly TSA PreCheck Guide.
Participating Airlines at DCA:
- Air Canada
- Alaska Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Frontier Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Southwest Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
- United Airlines
CLEAR Plus
The CLEAR Plus service is an expedited security screening process that provides a seamless travel experience for its members. It is available at several locations within the airport, helping you to bypass the stress and time-consuming lines. The CLEAR Plus lanes are located at Terminal A, Gates 1-9, the North Security Checkpoint, Gates D35-D45, Gates E46-E59, the South Security Checkpoint, Gates B10-B22, and Gates C23-C34. Please note that these locations are subject to change.
For more information about CLEAR Plus, including how to enroll and the benefits of membership, please visit the iFly Airport Guide. In partnership with iFly, CLEAR Plus is currently offering a two-month free trial for new members. Sign up now to experience the ease of travel with CLEAR Plus at Reagan National Airport and other participating airports nationwide.
Lost Items at TSA Checkpoints
If you've lost an item at a TSA checkpoint or in checked baggage at Reagan National Airport (DCA), you should promptly contact the airport's Lost and Found. For detailed information and to report your lost item, you can reach the TSA Lost Items Contact at TSA Lost and Found Form. Be prepared to provide a comprehensive description of your item, including color and any unique features, to aid in its identification and recovery.
About DCA Security Wait Times
The security wait times at Reagan National Airport are estimated by utilizing a blend of historical flight traffic data and TSA staffing schedules. We endeavor to provide a reasonably precise prediction of wait times at DCA by employing sophisticated data analytics. However, it's crucial to bear in mind that these estimates can vary due to unforeseen circumstances. The TSA recommends passengers to arrive at the airport well ahead of their flight's scheduled departure time.
While our goal is to provide accurate security checkpoint wait times to aid in your travel planning, it's equally important to consult with your airline regarding wait times at the ticket counter and any potential alterations to your flight schedules. These factors should also be considered when deciding your arrival time at DCA. Keep in mind, each airline has its own suggested and obligatory arrival times.
Last updated:
TSA Pre Check at DCA
Terminal A
Gates 1-9 Checkpoint
Terminal B
Gates 10-22 Checkpoint
Terminal B/C
Gates 23-34 Checkpoint
Terminal C
Gates 35-45 Checkpoint
Tips, Help & Resources
iFly.com can help you get to, through, and between airports around the world. Here are some things you may need to know that can assist you during your journey specific to DCA:
- Once you get through security, pull up the interactive Reagan National airport terminals map to navigate to your gate, and see all the DCA restaurant and shopping options along the way.
- Remember that a great low-cost alternative to parking within the DCA airport facility is to use an off-airport parking lot. They offer lower costs, a bit further away from the terminals.
- If you have some time before your flight's departure, be sure to grab a bite, peruse the shops, or jump on the free wifi.
- The next time you need to fly from the Arlington area, don't forget to check nearby airports to compare with DCA airports' flight fares.
Reagan National Airport wait times Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport