Current Average TSA Wait Time at MDW

How long should you allow for TSA at MDW?

The wait times can change throughout the day. The major factors that influence these wait times are passenger volume, staffing, holidays, weather, and other airport conditions. Therefore, check the current Chicago Midway TSA wait times before starting from home. The average wait time is around 4 minutes. The centralized TSA security screening area at MDW is the only checkpoint that serves passengers departing through Concourses A, B, and C.

TSA screening time is only one part of the airport process. Even when the security line is short, you may need additional time to park, reach the terminal, check bags, visit the airline counter, and walk to your gate. Considering this time spent, we recommend arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.

MDW TSA checkpoint location and directions

Midway’s terminal is organized around a central security screening area leading to its concourses. The MDW Airport Map can help you understand the routes leading to the TSA checkpoint. The route to the security checkpoint varies depending on where you enter the terminal.

From the terminal entrance

If you arrive at the main terminal by car, rideshare, taxi, or public transportation, it is easy to access the security checkpoint through the terminal’s main entrance. The drop-off area is at the curb near the terminal entrance. From there, follow airport signs for Departures, Ticketing, and Security Checkpoint.

From the parking garage

If you are parking in the Terminal Garage, use the pedestrian connections to reach the terminal. Those who use the pedestrian bridge can use the center elevator. Once you reach the upper level, the way to the TSA screening is the same.

From the CTA Orange Line

Travelers taking the CTA Orange Line to MDW exit at the CTA station and can follow signs toward the terminal and to security. If you are unfamiliar with MDW, allow additional time to walk from the transit station to the TSA checkpoint.

TSA PreCheck at Midway Airport

TSA PreCheck is available at Midway for eligible travelers. The service is available at the checkpoint between 4:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily. However, TSA PreCheck enrollment does not guarantee a particular wait time. TSA PreCheck-eligible travelers should make sure that their Known Traveler Number (KTN) is attached to their reservation. The boarding pass should display the appropriate PreCheck designation.

CLEAR at MDW

CLEAR is available at Midway. The CLEAR Lane and enrollment area at MDW operate from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. CLEAR is located on the Mezzanine of the main terminal. It uses identity verification technology before directing the traveler into the appropriate security screening process. CLEAR does not replace TSA screening.

Travelers should also distinguish between CLEAR and TSA PreCheck. CLEAR speeds up the identity verification process, while TSA PreCheck provides expedited TSA screening for eligible travelers. Since the operating hours and lane availability can change, check CLEAR before heading to the airport.

TSA screening tips for faster processing

TSA screening can take longer for passengers who are not prepared to follow TSA requirements. Nobody wants to face additional delays due to non-compliance, especially when MDW TSA wait times are long. To avoid such unnecessary delays at the security checkpoint:

• Have a valid ID and boarding pass ready when approaching the travel document checker.
• Check TSA rules for prohibited items before leaving for the airport.
• Follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule for liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes.
• Pack your belongings in an organized manner so bags can be screened efficiently.

If possible, exclude items that require additional inspection. Such checking can increase the time you spend at the checkpoint. This can leave little time between clearing security and boarding your flight if you are on a tight schedule. Those who travel with food, liquids, medical items, electronics, or unusual equipment should check the current TSA regulations before packing.

TSA Diamond Self-Select lanes

For frequent travelers, travelers unfamiliar with the TSA process, and families or passengers with special needs, TSA Diamond Self-Select lanes provide dedicated screening options.

• Expert lane: For frequent travelers who are familiar with the screening process.
• Family lane/Special-needs lane: Intended for families traveling with children and passengers who may require additional consideration during screening.
• Casual lane: For passengers who may need additional time or guidance through the screening process.

TSA Cares at MDW

Passengers who need assistance because of a disability, medical condition, or other special circumstances can contact TSA Cares. To request assistance, contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before traveling. Wheelchair assistance at Midway is coordinated through individual airlines. Therefore, passengers requiring this service should contact their airline before traveling.

MDW international arrival process

TSA screens departing travelers, while U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processes arriving international travelers at MDW. The airport has CBP programs such as Global Entry and Automated Passport Control (APC). The Global Entry program streamlines customs inspection processes through self-service kiosks. It can help eligible international travelers move through the arrival process more efficiently. International arrivals should follow airport signs to the CBP inspection area.

When should you arrive at MDW to avoid TSA delays?

For a domestic flight, travelers should plan to arrive at least two hours before departure. For an international flight, allow at least three hours.

Consider arriving earlier if you:

• Are checking luggage.
• Are unfamiliar with Midway.
• Need airline or special assistance.
• Are traveling with children.
• Are parking at the airport.
• Are traveling during a holiday or other busy period.
• Need to complete airline check-in at the airport.
• Have a long walk to your gate.

MDW Airport parking and TSA timing

Parking can become part of your airport timing, particularly if you are driving to Midway during a busy travel period. Build time into your schedule to find a parking space, walk or take the appropriate connection to the terminal, complete airline formalities, and reach TSA. We recommend that travelers who plan to park at offsite lots allow additional time for parking and shuttle transportation, in addition to the time needed to clear TSA security. Book affordable offsite MDW Airport Parking within 1-3 miles of the airport that offers free shuttle service. This can make the parking process easier and provide convenient transportation to the airport by shuttle.