PHX Security: Checkpoints, Hours, PreCheck and CLEAR

Terminal 3 has one TSA checkpoint. Terminal 4 has four, labeled A to D. Here are the hours PHX publishes:

• Terminal 3: open 24 hours.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint A: open 24 hours.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint B: 4:15 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint C: 3:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint D: 3:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

At least one checkpoint stays open around the clock in each terminal. In Terminal 4, any checkpoint leads to every gate, so you can pick the shortest line.

The PHX Sky Train station in Terminal 4 is on Level 3, and PHX says you can walk straight from the train to the security checkpoint.

PHX publishes checkpoint wait times on the skyharbor.com home page, one number for the Terminal 3 checkpoint and one for each of Checkpoints A to D in Terminal 4. The flight information screens in the terminals show them too. We don't print numbers here because they change minute by minute.

You can also use the free MyTSA app, which PHX says shows wait times at airport security checkpoints. If one line is long, PHX says you can use any of the others. In Terminal 4, every checkpoint reaches every gate.

PHX does not publish a set arrival time. Its wheelchair assistance FAQ says wait times vary and to allow additional time to arrive at the airport before departure. Ask your airline how early to get to the airport, and check the live checkpoint wait times on skyharbor.com before you leave.

If you have a PHX RESERVE slot, you can book one that starts 240 to 60 minutes before your flight.

PHX RESERVE is a free program that saves you a place in a dedicated lane at the TSA checkpoint. It works at Terminal 3 and at Terminal 4 Checkpoints A to D. You need no account.

How it works:

• Book up to six days before your flight, or sign up at the ticketing level of the terminal. You can also scan the QR codes on PHX RESERVE signs, so you can still book on the day if you forgot.
• Slots run from 240 to 60 minutes before your flight, and they are limited.
• You get a QR code by email. Scan it at the PHX RESERVE kiosk before the checkpoint, then use the PHX RESERVE lane.
• There is a 15 minute grace period. Arrive later and you may need to rebook or use the regular line.
• One booking can cover a group of up to 10 people.
• In Terminal 4, you must use the checkpoint named in your confirmation email.
• To cancel or reschedule, use the button in your confirmation email. PHX also sends a reminder email at 3 a.m. on the day of your appointment. If you find no email, check your spam folder or sign up again.

Hours for PHX RESERVE:

• Terminal 3: 24 hours.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint A: 24 hours.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint B: 4:15 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., for flights from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint C: 3:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., for flights from 4:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoint D: 3:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., for flights from 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Connecting passengers who stay behind security in the same terminal do not need it. If you connect to a flight in the other terminal and must be screened again, you can use it.

PHX lists these PreCheck lane hours:

• Terminal 3: 5 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Terminal 4, Checkpoints A, B, C and D: 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.

PHX says the hours can change and that PreCheck might not be available when a checkpoint is closed. It also says expedited screening is available during all operational hours. Look for the PreCheck logo on your boarding pass, and ask the TSA officer at the checkpoint if your flight leaves outside those hours.

PHX RESERVE does not give PreCheck benefits. PreCheck travelers should use their regular PreCheck lane.

PHX says CLEAR is available in Terminals 3 and 4, and that CLEAR customers can use a dedicated lane at each security checkpoint. CLEAR checks your identity, then moves you to the front of the physical screening. You still go through bag checks and the metal detector.

PHX does not say where the CLEAR lane sits at each checkpoint, and it lists no CLEAR hours. Follow the CLEAR signs at the checkpoint, and check the CLEAR app or clearme.com before you go.

Since February 1, 2026, travelers who do not have an acceptable ID, including a state ID that is not REAL ID compliant, can verify their identity with TSA ConfirmID. TSA charges a fee for it.

PHX also lists Mobile ID in Apple Wallet and Digital ID in Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet on its security page.

If you booked a Global Entry interview at Phoenix Sky Harbor, the Enrollment Center is on Level 3 of Terminal 4.

TSA Cares is a helpline for travelers with disabilities or medical conditions. Call 1-855-787-2227 before your trip to ask what to expect at the checkpoint. You can also reach TSA at 866-289-9673.

For wheelchair help, tell your airline when you book or check in. PHX says staging areas serve people in order of flight departure time, so allow extra time.