TSA Wait Times at Rochester International Airport (RST)
RST airport does not have family-friendly "Families on the Fly" lanes yet.
RST airport no longer requires taking shoes off at TSA.
Plan ahead and minimize your wait at Rochester International Airport security checkpoints. The data below shows historical maximum wait times by day and hour to help you choose the best time to arrive.
Peak Wait Time
20 min
Fridays at 4 PM
Best Times to Go
Under 5 minutes
87 time slots with minimal wait
Morning Wait Times (AM)
| Hour | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 1 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 2 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 3 AM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 4 AM | 2m | 1m | 2m | 1m | 1m | 1m | 2m |
| 5 AM | 4m | 3m | 4m | 3m | 3m | 8m | 4m |
| 6 AM | 4m | 3m | 1m | 1m | 1m | 6m | 1m |
| 7 AM | 1m | 1m | - | - | 1m | 1m | - |
| 8 AM | 1m | 1m | - | 1m | 1m | - | - |
| 9 AM | 1m | 1m | 2m | 1m | 2m | 2m | 9m |
| 10 AM | 2m | 2m | 3m | 2m | 1m | 4m | 2m |
| 11 AM | 5m | 3m | 3m | 3m | 6m | 1m | 5m |
Afternoon & Evening Wait Times (PM)
| Hour | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 PM | 1m | 1m | 2m | 3m | 3m | 2m | 1m |
| 1 PM | 2m | 1m | 2m | 2m | 2m | 3m | 1m |
| 2 PM | 2m | 1m | 2m | 3m | 2m | 2m | 2m |
| 3 PM | 1m | 1m | 1m | 1m | 1m | 1m | 1m |
| 4 PM | 2m | 3m | 3m | 3m | 20m | 1m | 2m |
| 5 PM | 1m | 1m | 2m | 3m | 2m | 1m | 2m |
| 6 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 7 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 8 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 9 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 10 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 11 PM | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Wait Time Legend
Tips for RST Security
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights
- Consider TSA PreCheck or CLEAR for expedited screening
- Check peak times above and plan to arrive during lower-traffic periods when possible
- Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the checkpoint
- Remove laptops and liquids from bags if you don't have TSA PreCheck
RST TSA Wait Times FAQ
How long are TSA wait times at Rochester International Airport?
TSA wait times at RST vary by day and time. Peak waits can reach 20 minutes on Fridays around 4 PM. The best times to go through security are early morning or late evening, with 87 time slots showing waits under 5 minutes.
What is the best time to go through security at RST?
The best times to go through TSA security at RST are typically early morning (before 6 AM) and late evening. Our data shows 87 time slots with wait times under 5 minutes. Avoid Fridays around 4 PM when waits are longest.
Should I get TSA PreCheck for RST?
TSA PreCheck can significantly reduce your wait time at Rochester International Airport. PreCheck members enjoy expedited screening with shorter lines, and don't need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets. If you fly more than twice a year, the $78 fee (valid for 5 years) is usually worth it.
How early should I arrive at RST airport?
For domestic flights at Rochester International Airport, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours early. Check the wait time data above to plan around busy periods.