Orlando International Airport Security and TSA Wait Times

Orlando International Airport can get busy because many travelers visit Central Florida for vacations and family trips. Standard MCO TSA wait times range from 7 to 16 minutes, depending on the terminal and time of day.

However, during peak travel windows, especially early mornings, late afternoons, and busy holidays or spring break weeks, wait times can stretch to 15-25 minutes or more. To get through security faster, travelers can use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus, which is available at Terminals A, B, and C.

Current MCO Security Wait Times 

Security lines can change throughout the day, so check the latest wait time before going to the airport. 

Hourly Estimated Orlando International Airport Security Wait Time 

Security lines at Orlando International Airport depend on the time of day, travel date, terminal, and passenger volume. 

TSA Wait Times at MCO Airport

The average TSA wait is about 7 to 10 minutes for regular screening and 3 to 5 minutes for TSA PreCheck. 

How to Reduce Orlando Airport Security Wait Times?

Orlando Airport offers several options, including TSA PreCheck, MCO Reserve, and CLEAR+ to avoid security delays at MCO.

MCO Reserve: This free airport service allows eligible passengers to reserve a security-screening time without TSA PreCheck or CLEAR+. Reservations can be made up to 7 days in advance, subject to available slots. Scan the QR code before and complete the normal security screening. MCO Reserve is available at all three terminal areas, but its operating hours vary.

TSA PreCheck: PreCheck passengers can use dedicated screening lanes and generally do not need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or 3-1-1 liquids. Members of programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI may also qualify. Enrollment is available at CLEAR locations at the airport's three TSA checkpoints. Follow the MCO airport map to access the enrollment center.

Travelers who are not flying from MCO can apply online and schedule an appointment at a TSA PreCheck enrollment center in Orlando or nearby areas. 

CLEAR+: CLEAR+ provides access to dedicated lanes using biometric identity verification at participating checkpoints. Enrolled members can combine with PreCheck for even faster access. CLEAR+ enrollment is available at the three security checkpoints serving Gates 70-129. Travelers can sign up online through CLEAR or enroll when they arrive at the airport. 

Customs and Immigration Wait Time at MCO

On average, international travelers can expect immigration and passport control wait times of around 37 minutes. However, wait times can vary by time of day, number of international flights arriving at the same time, and traveler status, such as U.S. citizens or foreign visitors. 

Average Customs Wait Times at MCO 

Average wait times may range from 5 to 37 minutes, based on travelers' status:

How to Speed Up Customs Processing at Orlando Airport?

Visitors can enroll in an expedited security program to speed up customs processing at Orlando International Airport.

Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP): This free CBP program uses facial biometrics to verify the identity of US citizens arriving at MCO. The system matches a traveler’s photo with passport records and, after verification, allows eligible passengers to proceed to baggage claim. EPP is available on select flights, is voluntary, and requires no pre-enrollment. Travelers can opt for standard CBP processing instead. 

Mobile Passport Control (MPC): Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a free CBP service available to eligible travelers. At MCO, eligible passengers can:

• Download the MPC app before traveling.

• Create a traveler profile.

• Complete the required information.

• Submit the trip information after arriving in the United States.

• Show the passport and electronic receipt to CBP.

Global Entry: Global Entry provides faster US entry for approved, low-risk travelers arriving from abroad. Members can use Global Entry kiosks at participating airports and also qualify for TSA PreCheck. 

Tip: Applications and interviews must be scheduled through the official Global Entry website. 

MCO TSA wait times change throughout the day. On average, the wait times range from 7 to 16 minutes, depending on the terminal and time of day. Wait times can extend to 25-30 minutes during busy hours and the holiday season. Arrive 2 hours before departure and enroll in expedited security screening to pass through security lines quickly.