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Tips for TSA wait times at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

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    Quick insights

    • TSA wait times at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) are generally between 20 and 25 minutes.
    • During peak periods, wait times can extend to 50 minutes.
    • Travelers can monitor current TSA wait times using the MSP website, MyTSA or other mobile apps.

    If you’ve ever been stuck in a long TSA line at MSP, it’s likely an experience you’d prefer to avoid. Fortunately, there are several resources available to help you avoid long lines and reduce the time it takes to reach your gate.

    In this article, we’ll discuss a few things to know about TSA wait times at MSP and offer tips for navigating airport security more efficiently.

    Airport security wait times at MSP

    According to MSP, their average airport security wait time is 20 to 25 minutes as of March 2025. However, during peak periods, waits can extend to 50 minutes or more. Longer wait times typically occur during the following periods:

    • Mornings
    • February through April
    • June through August
    • Major holidays

    MSP provides current TSA wait times on their website for all security checkpoints within Terminals 1 and 2, including both standard and TSA PreCheck® security lanes. All security checkpoints in Terminal 1 and at Checkpoint 2 in Terminal 2 have TSA PreCheck lanes.

    MyTSA and other mobile apps also offer up-to-date airport security wait times based on real-time data and may use historical data to predict wait times for specific travel days.

    Although these resources are often helpful for travel planning, be aware that sudden fluctuations in wait times can occur due to increased passenger volume and other factors.

    Timing your arrival at MSP

    Both MSP and TSA recommend arriving 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. When planning your arrival, MSP suggests estimating how long tasks like transit or parking, check in and airport security will take.

    During busy times, you may want to consider adding an extra 30 minutes to your schedule. In the event of snowstorms or other severe weather conditions, you’ll probably need to allow additional time for your drive to the airport.

    With some planning, you may be able to shorten the time it takes you to get to the gate. For instance, MSP allows you to prebook and pay for parking in advance. Additionally, valet services are available in Terminal 1, offering a convenient option for travelers concerned about missing their flight or those who want to avoid being outside during a Minnesota winter. Check the MSP website for the latest information on parking services.

    Another way to expedite your journey to the gate is by using your airline’s app for any pre-boarding tasks. If your airline offers an app, you can typically use it to check in, access mobile boarding passes and pre-check luggage. This could save you time, and if you don’t need to drop off checked bags, you can usually bypass the airline counter or self-service kiosk.

    How to get through airport security faster

    You could potentially streamline your airport security screening by following these tips:

    Use MSP Reserve

    Travelers can reserve a time slot for their security screening in advance through MSP Reserve. This service is available at the North Security Checkpoint in Terminal 1 and Checkpoint 2 in Terminal 2.

    Prepare for the screening

    Being unprepared for your screening can lead to delays. Knowing TSA rules and carry-on restrictions often can make the process more efficient. Some passengers choose to wear easy-to-remove shoes, belts and jackets, as these items need to be removed during the screening. Additionally, keeping your ID and boarding pass easily accessible may speed up the screening.

    Travel during off-peak times

    For travelers with flexible schedules, choosing to fly during off-peak times may help avoid long TSA wait times. Avoiding travel during MSP’s busiest periods—mornings, major holidays, February through April, and June through August—could result in shorter wait times.

    Apps are available to predict TSA wait times based on historical data, but they do not guarantee actual wait times.

    Consider programs designed to expedite screenings

    TSA PreCheck is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows members to use designated TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security checkpoints, including MSP. Enrolling with TSA PreCheck typically means you won’t have to remove your shoes, belt or light jacket, and you may keep your laptop and liquids in your bag.

    CLEAR Plus is a program operated by CLEAR, a private security company. CLEAR Plus members can use designated kiosks to confirm their identity via biometrics rather than conventional identification documents. While CLEAR Plus is not a Trusted Traveler Program, you can pair it with other TTPs like TSA PreCheck to further streamline the screening process.

    In summary

    MSP reports that their average TSA wait times are between 20 and 25 minutes, potentially extending to 50 minutes during peak travel periods. Wait times are often longest in the mornings, during major holidays and from February to April and June to August.

    The MSP website, MyTSA and other mobile apps provide current TSA wait times. You may be able to reach your gate more efficiently by researching MSP parking options in advance, using airline mobiles apps for check in, booking travel during off-peak times or enrolling in TSA PreCheck.

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