Security

Security wait times fluctuate quickly. Please arrive at the security checkpoint 2 hours before departure.

  • Security-Checkpoint
    Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

    The TSA is responsible for passenger screening at the security checkpoints at Orlando International Airport.

    Knowing the process and the requirements can help expedite your passage through the security screening. The TSA web site provides useful information, including:

    Useful TSA References

    You may also want to consider applying for one of the expedited screening programs, TSA PreCheck, Global Entry (which also provides TSA PreCheck benefits) or CLEAR.

    Security Screening Options

    Now passengers without TSA PreCheck or CLEAR+ can book a time to go through airport security with MCO Reserve powered by Clear – it’s free!

    MCO Reserve allows travelers to reduce stress by planning ahead and reserving a dedicated time slot for their party to go through TSA security screening.

    On arrival at the dedicated MCO Reserve lane, travelers will simply scan their MCO Reserve QR code and move directly to TSA to screen their boarding pass and ID, and then proceed through the standard TSA security screening. Terminals A, B and C all have dedicated MCO Reserve lanes with a limited number of slots available each day. Travelers may book their time slot up to 7 days in advance.

    Security screening times available from 5:00am to 5:00pm for flights departing between 6:30am and 8:30pm.

    TSA PreCheck provides low-risk travelers with a smoother experience at the airport security passenger checkpoint. The program is open to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, as well as members participating in Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI. The TSA PreCheck program is a great option for frequent travelers looking to save time during the airport security process. Enrolled members can travel with ease with no need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets. They can also access dedicated screening lanes when traveling on participating airlines at participating U.S. airports.

    Normal operating hours for TSA PreCheck are 4:00 am to 8:30 pm but you can confirm whether the TSA PreCheck lanes will be open when you’re flying at TSA Pre✓ ® Checkpoint

    TSA PreCheck enrollment initiative for departing passengers:

    MCO is one of the first airports to offer the new TSA PreCheck enrollment initiative for departing travelers. It will allow travelers to enroll in TSA PreCheck as they depart for their trip with no need for an appointment. IDEMIA TSA PreCheck Enrollment Ambassadors are stationed in front of the security checkpoint for Gates 1-59, located on the South Walk side, with carts equipped to enroll passengers in TSA PreCheck. An added benefit is travelers who apply on-site will have access to the MCO Reserve Lane* at the security checkpoint for their departure on the day they complete their TSA PreCheck application.

    Hours of operation for the enrollment initiative are: Monday – Friday: 5:00 am – 11:00 am (Saturday – Sunday: Closed)

    This new, simplified initiative for departing travelers delivers TSA PreCheck enrollment in five minutes or less, and most passengers will receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within three to five days, and in most cases, just in time for their return trip.

    Enrolling at the airport is even faster if the traveler applies online beforehand. TSA PreCheck enrollment requires proof of identity, proof of citizenship (forms of identification can be located here: proof of citizenship), fingerprint and photo capture. There is an $85 enrollment application fee, which covers five years of participation, if approved. Click here if you wish to start the application process before arriving at MCO.

    If you are not a departing traveler, but still interested in enrolling in TSA PreCheck:

    Please complete the application and schedule an enrollment at one of our numerous enrollment centers in Orlando, FL and surrounding areas, or stop by our enrollment center at MCO located in Terminal B, on Level 2, near Baggage Claim 23, which is open Monday-Friday, 8:00am – 1:00pm & 1:30pm – 4:30pm.

    CLEAR+ is a biometrics-based pre-clearance system that allows passengers to enter dedicated security checkpoint lanes at participating airports, allowing them to bypass the regular lanes and get straight to the screening.

    The CLEAR+ Enrollment Center is located in Terminal A/B, level 3, at the Security Checkpoint for Gates 70-129. Applicants may sign up on the CLEAR web site, or when they visit the Enrollment Center to complete their application.