CLT Airport Security: Checkpoint Hours and PreCheck

CLT lists these hours for its three security checkpoints. They are subject to change.

• Checkpoint 1 (standard, special assistance, family): 3:45 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Checkpoint 2 (standard, special assistance): 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Checkpoint 2 (Main PreCheck): 3:45 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Checkpoint 3 (standard, special assistance): 3:45 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Once all the checkpoints are closed, passengers are not allowed past security. Only ticketed passengers can go beyond the checkpoints.

You do not have to pick by concourse. CLT says all concourses and aircraft gates can be reached from any checkpoint. That means the shortest line is usually your best choice.

After 8 p.m., Checkpoint 1 and Checkpoint 3 are closed. Standard screening then runs only at Checkpoint 2, which opens its standard lanes at 7 p.m.

CLT does not say where the three checkpoints sit inside the terminal. Follow the signs after you check bags, or use the interactive map at cltairport.com/airport-info/website-maps.

CLT designates Checkpoint 2 for Main PreCheck. Its PreCheck lanes are listed as open from 3:45 a.m. to 11 p.m.

One line on the same CLT page says PreCheck lanes are at "checkpoint A," which does not match the Checkpoint 1, 2 and 3 names used everywhere else. Follow the PreCheck signs in the terminal, and check the airport's security page before you go.

CLT's security page lists no CLEAR lane. Local news reported in May 2025 that the airport put its CLEAR rollout on hold while federal rules were pending. If you rely on CLEAR, confirm with CLEAR before you travel, and plan to use the PreCheck or standard line.

CLT posts current wait times for each checkpoint on its security page, split between standard checkpoints and PreCheck. The page shows each checkpoint as open or closed with a wait range, and asks you to refresh for updates. We do not publish a typical wait here because the numbers change all day.

CLT gives no recommended arrival time in hours. The airport says only to arrive early, because security measures take more time, and to allow even more when you travel with young children, infants, elderly or disabled passengers. Check your airline's own advice for your flight, and look at the live wait times before you leave.

CLT's pages list no security reservation program. Use the live wait times and pick the shortest open checkpoint.

• A valid government-issued photo ID and your boarding pass. The airport says both are required for gate access.
• Children are not required to show identification.
• If you lost your ID, expect an identity check and more screening time.
• Liquids in carry-ons follow the 3.4 ounce rule, in one quart-size clear zip-top bag, with exceptions for baby food and formula and for medical needs.
• Firearms are prohibited at TSA checkpoints. Remove them from carry-on bags before you travel.
• Do not wrap gifts. Security may open packages.

The Global Entry enrollment office is before security, in Arrivals/Baggage Claim. It is open Monday to Friday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted. On the airport grounds, you can reach it by phone with the Customs courtesy phone outside the Credentialing Office.

Mobile Passport Control is a free CBP app for eligible travelers returning to the U.S. It needs no pre-approval, and travelers who use it skip the paper form and the kiosk.

Do not leave a car unattended at the terminal curb. Unattended vehicles may be towed. If you need to park to walk someone in, the airport suggests the Hourly Deck, and its posted rates list the first 15 minutes as free. For TSA questions, call 1.866.289.9673.