The DEN Security Guide That Actually Makes Sense: Everything You Need to Know (Updated August 2025)

Denver International Airport’s security setup can feel like navigating a maze, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the layout or arriving during off-peak hours.

I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you breeze through DEN security checkpoints like a pro, whether you’re flying at 4am, are a first-time flyer, or have every travel perk in the book.

Know Before You Go

The Basics

• Two main security checkpoints: West Security (Level 6) and East Security (Level 6)
• Distance between checkpoints: About a 5-7 minute walk if you need to switch
• Security hours: Both checkpoints operate the same hours daily
• All checkpoints lead to all gates – you can’t go wrong choosing either one
• Real-time wait times: Check current delays at flydenver.com/security

Important Update – August 2025

Denver has completely streamlined their security experience! South Security checkpoint has permanently closed and been replaced by the new East Security checkpoint that opened August 5, 2025, with 17 state-of-the-art screening lanes on Level 6.

The Big Improvement: Previously, you had to remember which checkpoint accommodated which services (like CLEAR only being available at certain locations). Now it’s refreshingly simple – both West and East Security checkpoints handle ALL passengers and ALL services equally. TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, standard screening, accessibility needs – everything works at both checkpoints.

Hot Tip: Since both security checkpoints now accommodate all passengers equally, check the current wait times at flydenver.com/security and simply go to whichever side has the shortest wait time!

The Simple Decision Tree

Step 1: What’s your airline and check-in location?

Flying Southwest? → East Security is located right next to Southwest ticketing areas

Flying United? → West Security is located next to United check-in areas

Other airlines? → Continue to Step 2

Step 2: What’s your security status?

Standard security → Either checkpoint works equally well – both have advanced technology

TSA PreCheck → Either checkpoint handles PreCheck – choose based on convenience

CLEAR + PreCheck → Both checkpoints accommodate CLEAR members

DEN Reserve → West Security only – this is the only checkpoint with DEN Reserve availability

Traveling with mixed group (some have PreCheck, some don’t) → Either checkpoint works – both have multiple lanes

Special needs (premium status, accessibility needs) → Either checkpoint accommodates you fully

Step 3: Arrival method consideration

Taking the A-Line train? → Both checkpoints are now on Level 6, so you’ll need to go upstairs regardless

Arriving by car/rideshare? → Choose based on your airline’s location or security preferences

West Security Checkpoint (Level 6)

Hours: 3:00 AM – 1:00 AM (the next day) daily
Location: Northwest end of Level 6, next to United ticketing

Features:

• Advanced screening technology
• You can leave laptops and electronics in your bag (even without PreCheck!)
• Multiple screening lanes
• DEN Reserve available – the only checkpoint offering reservation-based screening
• TSA PreCheck and CLEAR accommodated

Three Entrances – Choose Your Lane:

West Security 1 (behind United ticketing)

• Standard security passengers
• Most people use this entrance

West Security 2 (near door 606)

• DEN Reserve members
• Premium/Premier Access passengers
• Military personnel
• Accessibility needs
• Airport employees

West Security 3 (near door 600)

• TSA PreCheck passengers
• CLEAR + PreCheck members

Why Choose West Security:

• Only checkpoint with DEN Reserve program
• Established checkpoint with proven efficiency
• Ideal if you’re flying United or checking bags nearby
• Perfect for travelers who want to reserve their security time slot

East Security Checkpoint (Level 6)

Hours: 3:00 AM – 1:00 AM (the next day) daily
Location: Northeast corner of Level 6, next to Southwest Airlines ticketing

Features:

• Brand new as of August 2025 with 17 state-of-the-art screening lanes
• Latest security technology with facial recognition (opt-out available)
• Automated bin system – no need to push belongings through manually
• TSA PreCheck and CLEAR accommodated
• Three stations per lane for faster processing

Why Choose East Security:

• Newest technology and equipment
• Automated systems designed for maximum efficiency
• Perfect if you’re flying Southwest or checking bags nearby
• Less crowded as travelers adjust to the new layout

Special Situations

Early Morning Arrivals (before 4:00 AM)

Both checkpoints operate the same hours. During very early hours, both will be available with full staffing.

Late Night Departures

Both checkpoints remain open late to accommodate evening flights. Check current operating hours as they may extend beyond previous South Security hours.

Mixed Travel Groups

Both checkpoints work well for groups with different security statuses. Each checkpoint has multiple lanes to accommodate various needs, and groups can reunite after security.

First-Time DEN Flyers

Either checkpoint is excellent for first-time visitors. The East Security has the newest technology and clearest signage, while West Security offers the DEN Reserve option if you want to guarantee your screening time.

See my top tips for first-time Denver Airport travelers.

DEN Reserve: Skip the Guesswork

What is DEN Reserve? DEN Reserve is Denver’s appointment-based security screening system that lets you reserve your exact screening time slot up to 14 days in advance. Think of it as making a restaurant reservation, but for TSA security.

Who Should Use DEN Reserve?

• Travelers without TSA PreCheck or CLEAR – this gives you a faster, more predictable experience
• Business travelers with tight connections – guarantee your screening time
• Anxious flyers – eliminate the stress of unknown wait times
• Peak travel days – holidays, summer weekends, or busy Monday mornings
• Large groups – book together (up to 10 people per reservation)

Important Notes:

• West Security only – DEN Reserve is exclusively available at the West checkpoint
• Available 5 AM – 5 PM daily for flights departing between 6 AM – 9 PM
• 15-minute grace period – you can arrive anytime within your 15-minute window
• General screening only – if you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, use those programs instead

How to Book:

Same-day by scanning QR codes at the West Security checkpoint (if spots available)

Online up to 14 days in advance

Traveling with Pets

Both checkpoints accommodate pet travel equally well:

• Service animals: Both checkpoints have full accessibility accommodations
• Pets in carriers: Either checkpoint works – choose based on airline location
• Remember: You’ll need to remove your pet from their carrier during screening at both checkpoints

What Changed in August 2025

South Security Closure

• South Security on Level 5 permanently closed August 5, 2025
• All screening now happens on Level 6
• A-Line train passengers now need to go upstairs to Level 6 for security

New East Security Features

• 17 advanced screening lanes with latest technology
• Automated bin systems for faster processing
• Facial recognition technology (with opt-out option)
• Located next to Southwest Airlines for convenience
• Same hours and services as West Security

Bottom Line

• Want to reserve your screening time? Choose West Security (DEN Reserve available)
• Flying Southwest? East Security is most convenient
• Flying United? West Security is most convenient
• Want the newest technology? East Security has the latest equipment, although both are equally modernized
• Have flexibility? Either checkpoint offers excellent service with advanced technology

After Security: You’re All Set

No matter which checkpoint you choose, you’ll end up in the same place.

Both West Security and South Security lead directly to the underground train that takes you to all gates (A, B, and C concourses).

The train runs frequently, and from there you can reach any gate in the airport. So don’t stress about your checkpoint choice affecting your gate access – once you’re through security, you’re golden.

Additionally, the A-Bridge walkway between the terminal and Concourse A is now open for both arriving and departing passengers, giving you the option to walk to Concourse A if you prefer.

The key is knowing your options ahead of time. Save this guide to your phone and you’ll never be confused about DEN security again!