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Use these tips to travel with confidence through the TSA checkpoint:

  • Markings on the floor measuring six feet apart make social distancing a snap.  
  • Travelers can bring up to 12 oz. of hand sanitizer through the security checkpoints.
  • Passengers can wear masks during the screening process – though you may have to adjust your mask to confirm your identity.
  • The TSA is disinfecting touchpoints and bins continuously and all frontline employees will be wearing gloves. You may always ask your agent to put on fresh gloves before a search of your belongings.
  • Pack items you will need to remove during screening, such as snacks, in smaller bags.
  • Travelers will be scanning their own boarding passes and identification to minimize contact. Make things even easier by utilizing electronic boarding passes and electronic passports. 
  • Don't forget, while lines may appear longer due to social distancing, what you are seeing is not a long line, it is a safe line!

Airport Arrival Time 

Please arrive at MSP two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international travel. This allows for enough time to check your bags, be screened and arrive at your gate.

REAL ID Compliance

Minnesota air travelers must obtain a "REAL ID" Minnesota driver's license or identification (ID) card if they want to use one to board a commercial flight in the U.S. after May 3, 2023.

A REAL ID office is now open at MSP Airport's Terminal 1, allowing passengers to apply for the new ID. You will need an appointment. Full information is available here.

The REAL ID office is located pre-security at Terminal 1 on the mezzanine of the Green Parking Ramp. The office is easily accessed by parking in the Green or Gold ramps and taking the elevator to the Skyway Level (Floor 3) or by taking the skyway from the Ticketing area. 

More information about REAL ID can be found on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's website.

Note: a valid U.S. passport, military ID or enhanced ID will continue to be accepted for air travel after the deadline, regardless of whether an individual has a REAL ID.

TSA Checkpoints

Terminal 1 has TSA-operated security checkpoints in the following locations.

  • The North and South checkpoints are located on the Ticketing level and can be used by all passengers. 
  • The Skyway Security Checkpoint on the Concourse C/G connector bridge is temporarily closed along with the associated KCM entrance. The automated exit is open at that location; 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • Checkpoint #7, located on Concourse G, is for international connecting travelers only.
  • The checkpoint that served the InterContinental Hotel MSP Airport is closed for the foreseeable future as of April 1, 2020. A hotel shuttle will bring guests to the terminal; inquire at the front desk.

At Terminal 2, two security checkpoints are located on Level 2.

  • Near the Orange and Purple Parking Ramp skyways.
  • Checkpoint 1 is open from 4:00 a.m. until the last scheduled departure. Checkpoint 2 is generally only used for peak travel periods.

View a map of MSP's campus. Use your computer mouse to zoom in.

Global Entry

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Though intended for frequent international travelers, there is no minimum number of trips necessary to qualify for the program.

Global Entry is available at both terminals. At Terminal 1, the Global Entry interview area is near baggage carousel #11 on the baggage claim level.

For more information: 
Website: http://www.globalentry.gov
Phone: 877-227-5511

Global Entry T1 map


TSA PreCheck

During TSA security checks, PreCheck passengers may usually leave their shoes on, keep 3-1-1 compliant liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags, leave laptops in their bag, leave their belt on and continue to wear light outerwear.

Travelers enrolled in or who are eligible for TSA PreCheck screening should look for PreCheck lanes at open checkpoints.

For more information and to enroll, visit the TSA website.

TSA precheck

 

 


CLEAR

CLEAR offers expedited access to airport security processing through biometric technology, using fingerprints or irises to identify travelers. Kiosks are available at both the North and South checkpoints in Terminal 1. Visit clearme.com for more information on becoming a member.
 


Customs and Border Protection

As of February 1, 2000 only the Customs and Border Protection Mobile Passport Control app can be used for entry into the United States. Any other apps previously used for that purpose will no longer work.

The Customs and Border Protection Mobile Passport Control app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store here.