Travelers Can Now Check TSA Wait Times Remotely Before Airport Arrival

Travelers across the United States 🇺🇸 can now check TSA Wait Times and airport parking lot spaces before even leaving home, thanks to new technology and recent federal policy changes. As of August 1, 2025, these updates make air travel smoother and less stressful for millions of people, especially during busy travel seasons.

The MyTSA mobile application remains the main tool for checking real-time TSA Wait Times at all major U.S. airports. This app collects data directly from TSA systems and also uses reports from travelers, updating information throughout the day. According to recent data, average wait times at major airports like Chicago O’Hare (ORD) are now just 4.60 minutes, with peak times reaching about 9.89 minutes and a maximum recorded wait of 34 minutes in June 2025. These numbers show a big improvement compared to past years, when travelers often faced much longer lines and uncertainty.

A major policy change took effect on July 8, 2025, when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) ended the long-standing “Shoes-Off” policy at all domestic TSA checkpoints. Now, passengers can keep their shoes on during screening, which is expected to further reduce TSA Wait Times and make the process faster. Secretary Kristi Noem of DHS said, “Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports… We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience.”

The TSA PreCheck program continues to offer even faster screening for those enrolled, with wait time standards under 10 minutes for PreCheck lanes and under 30 minutes for standard lanes nationwide. This means that travelers who sign up for PreCheck can expect to move through security lines much more quickly.

Checking airport parking lot space availability has also become much easier. Most major U.S. airports now provide real-time parking information through their official websites and dedicated mobile apps. These systems use sensors and automated counters to show the number of available spaces in each lot or garage. For example, airports like Philadelphia International (PHL), Pittsburgh International (PIT), and Minneapolis–St. Paul (MSP) update parking data continuously and display it online, so travelers can check before leaving home. Some airports have even added parking data to their main airport apps, which also include TSA Wait Times, flight status, and terminal maps.

Travelers can now plan their trips more confidently by checking both TSA Wait Times and airport parking lot spaces in advance. This reduces stress and helps avoid surprises, especially during peak travel periods like holidays and summer vacations. Many airports also display real-time wait times on digital signs at entrances and security checkpoints, making it easy for travelers to see what to expect as soon as they arrive.

Recent policy changes have also affected what travelers need to bring to the airport. Since May 7, 2025, the TSA has strictly enforced REAL ID requirements at all airport checkpoints. Only REAL ID-compliant identification is accepted for domestic air travel. Travelers must make sure their ID meets these standards to avoid being turned away at security. For more information about REAL ID, travelers can visit the official Department of Homeland Security page at dhs.gov/real-id.

The TSA has also launched the “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program, which provides expedited screening and PreCheck discounts for uniformed service members and their families. This is part of a broader effort to make air travel more convenient for those who serve the country.

For travelers who want to check TSA Wait Times and airport parking lot spaces, the process is simple:

To check TSA Wait Times:
– Download the MyTSA mobile application for iOS or Android, or visit the official TSA website at tsa.gov.
– Select your departure airport to view current wait times, which are updated in real time.
– Many airport websites also display live wait times on their security or travel information pages.

To check airport parking lot space availability:
– Visit the official website or app of your departure airport.
– Go to the “Parking” or “Ground Transportation” section to see real-time space counts.
– Some airports offer SMS alerts or push notifications when lots fill up or when spaces become available.

These changes have important effects for different groups. For travelers, the ability to check TSA Wait Times and parking availability before leaving home means less uncertainty and better trip planning. The end of the “Shoes-Off” policy and expanded PreCheck benefits make the security process even faster. However, travelers must remember to bring REAL ID-compliant identification to avoid problems at the checkpoint.

For airports and the TSA, there is now greater demand for accurate, real-time data systems and better integration across platforms. They must continue to invest in technology and staffing to keep wait times low and data accurate, especially during busy periods.

Industry experts say that these improvements are a big step toward creating “smart airports” that use technology to make travel easier. However, they also warn that peak travel times can still lead to occasional spikes in wait times and parking shortages. Security experts point out that new screening technologies, such as advanced imaging and canine teams, have made it possible to relax rules like the “Shoes-Off” policy without reducing safety.

Traveler advocacy groups welcome the increased transparency and convenience but urge continued investment in accessibility and data accuracy, especially for smaller regional airports that may not have the same resources as larger hubs.

Looking back, before 2024, TSA Wait Times and parking data were often only available on-site or through unofficial sources. The COVID-19 pandemic sped up digital changes in airport operations, leading to the widespread use of real-time data systems. In 2024 and 2025, major investments in digital infrastructure and policy changes like REAL ID enforcement and the end of the “Shoes-Off” rule have focused on both security and traveler convenience.

Looking ahead, more airports are expected to add real-time data for other services, such as food options and rideshare pickup. The TSA is also testing more automation and biometric screening to make lines even shorter. However, there are still challenges, such as making sure data stays accurate during busy times and protecting privacy as digital services expand.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes reflect a growing trend toward using technology to improve the travel experience while keeping security strong. For the latest updates on TSA Wait Times, airport parking lot spaces, and travel requirements, travelers should use the MyTSA mobile application and check their airport’s official website before every trip. This simple step can save time, reduce stress, and help ensure a smooth journey through the airport.