Airport Security Guide

Burbank (BUR) Security Tips

BUR has 3 security checkpoints with TSA PreCheck lanes. Security is busiest 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM. Use the Leave-By Time calculator to fold the modeled BUR wait forecast, your drive, and gate-walk into one exact departure time.

How many security checkpoints does BUR have?

BUR has 3 security checkpoints across 2 terminals (A, B). TSA PreCheck dedicated lanes are available, giving members a faster, bin-free screening experience. PreCheck is open at the main checkpoints during regular screening hours, though an individual lane can close off-peak.

When is BUR security busiest?

BUR security lines are typically longest during 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM. Outside those windows, wait times drop substantially — check the BUR wait forecast for the current picture before you head out. General guidance:

• Domestic flights: arrive at least 2 hours before departure; 2.5 hours during peak periods.
• International flights: arrive at least 3 hours before departure to cover check-in, security, and any customs pre-clearance.

Not sure when to leave? The Leave-By Time calculator uses the modeled BUR wait forecast, real-time traffic, and your gate-walk distance to give you an exact departure time. Also see how early to arrive at the airport for a full breakdown by flight type.

Which BUR security checkpoint is fastest?

In Terminal A use the checkpoint nearest your gate; Terminal B's single checkpoint (5 gates) tends to move faster during midday.

CLEAR is not currently available at BUR. TSA PreCheck at BUR remains the best single upgrade for reducing your security wait.

What are the top BUR airport security tips?

These tips are specific to Burbank (BUR) and verified against current airport configuration:

• BUR has three checkpoints: two in Terminal A (one near Gate A1, one near Gate A5) and one in Terminal B (near Gate B1); pick the checkpoint closest to your gate to minimize post-security walking.
• Terminal B serves only 5 gates and typically processes passengers faster than Terminal A during midday — network-carrier travelers on Alaska, American, Delta, or United often clear quickly.
• A new replacement terminal is projected to open October 2026; check hollywoodburbankairport.com before travel for any checkpoint layout or access changes.
• Midday (10 AM–12 PM) and early afternoon (1–3 PM) are the quietest security windows; the 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM blocks consistently see the longest queues.

Does BUR have TSA PreCheck?

Yes — BUR has TSA PreCheck lanes at its security checkpoints. PreCheck members keep shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, and 3-1-1 liquids packed, and pass through a dedicated screening lane. Membership costs $85–$100 for five years and includes a Known Traveler Number (KTN) you add to every booking.

See live PreCheck wait times and current lane status on the BUR TSA PreCheck page. That page also covers which terminals have a PreCheck lane, enrollment locations, and how PreCheck compares to CLEAR and Global Entry at BUR.

BUR does not host a Global Entry enrollment center or Enrollment on Arrival, so the interview has to be completed at another location — but membership still pays off here, since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck for the BUR PreCheck lanes. Details on Global Entry at BUR.

BUR security at a glance

See also: Live BUR TSA wait times · TSA PreCheck at BUR · How early to arrive at the airport