Flying out of Orlando International Airport (MCO)? If you’re a first-timer, you should know that the security lines at MCO are often long, resulting in longer wait times, making your travel stressful. Now you’ll be wondering about how to avoid these long security lines. Well, one option is to enroll in the TSA PreCheck program. But, does Orlando Airport have TSA PreCheck?
Your travel via Orlando Airport can be smooth if there’s a quicker security screening procedure available. Our blog precisely answers the availability of TSA PreCheck at Orlando Airport so that you can determine how early you must arrive at the airport terminal.
Does Orlando Airport have TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Orlando International Airport (MCO) has exclusive TSA PreCheck lanes in all three terminals (A, B, and C). Ideally, these security lanes operate from 4 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; however, the exact working hours may vary based on the checkpoint and demand. For a quicker security screening experience at MCO, you can enroll in the TSA PreCheck program and use the security lane on the day of your travel.
If you find the PreCheck lanes closed, present your boarding pass to the TSA agents with the PreCheck indicator to have quicker screening in a standard security lane. You can find both TSA PreCheck enrollment and reservation offices in Orlando Airport.
Orlando Airport TSA PreCheck locations
The enrollment center is on the second level of Terminal B. For the best and quickest experience, access the security checkpoint nearest to your gate.
- Terminals A & B (West checkpoint): The gates are from 1-59. TSA PreCheck lanes operate daily from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Terminals A & B (East checkpoint): The gates are from 70-129. TSA PreCheck lanes operate daily from 4 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Terminal C: The gates are from C230 to C249. The TSA PreCheck lane is at the main security level, ideally operating from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m.
To reach the TSA PreCheck lanes quickly, it is best to reserve your parking in advance. As the onsite Orlando Airport parking lots are expensive and fill up quickly, it is always best to reserve parking near Orlando Airport. You get a guaranteed parking spot at the lowest rates possible.
How to enroll in TSA PreCheck at Orlando International Airport
- If you want to save time, start the enrollment process online via the TSA’s website.
- For a walk-in process, you can visit the IDEMIA enrollment center. The center is before the gates 1-59 security checkpoint and functions from Monday to Friday from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- To verify your citizenship and identity, you’ll have to present documents like your driver’s license and birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport. The process also involves taking your photo and fingerprint.
- Pay the enrollment fee of $85. After completing the online application, you should schedule an appointment at any of the centers in Orlando or nearby areas. You can make the payment for enrollment there. The membership is valid for five years.
- After the payment, you’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) in about 3-5 days.
Also, all the CLEAR locations at Orlando Airport checkpoints offer TSA PreCheck enrollment.
How early should I get to the Orlando Airport with TSA PreCheck?
With PreCheck, we recommend you reach MCO at least 1.5 to 2 hours before the flight time for domestic flights. This is vital if you’re flying out during holidays or peak seasons, when PreCheck lane locations may change, and you may need extra time for baggage check. For international flights, try reaching the airport 3 to 3.5 hours before your flight time.
How fast is TSA PreCheck at MCO?
The TSA PreCheck wait times at Orlando Airport may vary, but they are usually under 20 minutes. At off-peak times, the wait time can be 5 minutes or less. However, the wait time can go over 30 minutes during the peak times, especially between 7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m. For international flights, add some extra time to have a stress-free journey.
For real-time Orlando Airport TSA PreCheck wait times, check Orlando Airport’s website.
Is TSA PreCheck worth it at Orlando Airport?
Yes, enrolling in this program is a great choice if you wish to save time on airport security screening. Enrolling in this program can help you travel seamlessly without removing laptops, shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, or light jackets.
Alternatives to Orlando International Airport TSA PreCheck
The best alternatives to the PreCheck program are CLEAR Plus, MCO Reserve, and Global Entry.
- CLEAR Plus: Another paid subscription service that makes use of biometric data for your verification. The program will let you jump to the front of the security line.
- MCO Reserve: A free program at MCO that allows you to book a 15-minute time slot for security screening, avoiding the main security queue.
- Global Entry: A program very useful for international travelers, providing all the benefits of TSA PreCheck.
| Feature | TSA PreCheck | CLEAR Plus | MCO Reserve |
| Price | $76.75-$85 | $209 | Free |
| Identity verification | Traditional ID verification | Biometric verification | Traditional ID verification |
| Physical security screening | Expedited | Standard (except if you have TSA PreCheck) | Standard |
| Wait time | Ideally under 5 minutes | Ideally under 10 minutes | Vary based on the appointment window |
| Ideal for | Frequent flyers | Frequent flyers and tech lovers | Budget-conscious travellers and families |
