Airport Security Guide

Memphis (MEM) Security Tips

MEM has 1 security checkpoint with TSA PreCheck lanes. Security is busiest 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM. Use the Leave-By Time calculator to fold the modeled MEM wait forecast, your drive, and gate-walk into one exact departure time.

How many security checkpoints does MEM have?

MEM has 1 security checkpoint across 1 terminal (Main). 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 MEM security busiest?

MEM security lines are typically longest during 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM. Outside those windows, wait times drop substantially — check the MEM 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 MEM 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 MEM security checkpoint is fastest?

MEM operates a single main checkpoint, so all passengers enter the same security lane. TSA PreCheck is the primary tool for faster throughput here — members keep shoes, belts, and laptops packed.

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

What are the top MEM airport security tips?

These tips are specific to Memphis (MEM) and verified against current airport configuration:

• MEM has three separate landside ticketing halls (A, B, C) that all funnel into a single Concourse B post-security; check in at whichever hall matches your airline, then converge at the same checkpoint.
• PreCheck opens as early as 3 AM on Tuesdays and 4 AM on other days — ideal for ultra-early departures when standard lanes may not yet be fully staffed.
• The renovated Concourse B (2022) has wider hallways; budget 10–15 minutes walking time from security to the farthest gates near B22–B23.
• Average standard wait is 16–24 minutes; outside peak windows MEM rarely exceeds 10–15 minutes and is one of the more efficient mid-size airports for security.

Does MEM have TSA PreCheck?

Yes — MEM 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 MEM 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 MEM.

Global Entry interviews can be completed at MEM itself — via an on-site enrollment center or Enrollment on Arrival after an international flight — and membership includes TSA PreCheck. See Global Entry at MEM for locations and hours.

MEM security at a glance

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