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San Diego International Airport Operating Normally During Government Shutdown

San Diego International Airport (SAN) continues to operate normally, and essential federal aviation personnel (including air traffic controllers, FAA operations, and related support staff) are anticipated to remain on duty. We expect no disruption to airport-controlled functions such as parking, concessions, customer service, or public safety. However, please be aware that checkpoint wait times and flight scheduling remain subject to the operations of our federal and airline partners. In the event that travel volumes grow or federal staffing constraints intensify, delays may occur. To help ensure a smooth experience through the airport, please check your flight status before coming to the airport and allow extra time for TSA/security screening. SAN continues to coordinate with federal partners, and we are thankful for their service during this time. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates through our website and social media should conditions change.

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Badging and
the Access Control
Office (ACO)

Access Control Office (ACO) Hours and Location

Appointments/Walk-Ins are required for fingerprinting or badge renewals.

Schedule Your Visit QLess Information PDF

Access Control Office (ACO) Overview

The ACO is responsible for issuing and managing SAN ID badges for individuals requiring unescorted access to secure areas of San Diego International Airport. Badge issuance is contingent upon successful completion of an FBI Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) and a TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA).

Schedule Your Visit

Initial Badge Application

  1. Applicant must complete an Access Investigation Form (AIF 10-year history) Section 1 and Section 2, if applicable. The AIF 10-year history Section I must be submitted in a typed format, and all signatures must contain original ink (black or blue).
  2. Confirm the SAN ID applicant has two forms of original and unexpired identification from the List of Acceptable Documents to bring to their initial badge appointment.
  3. Schedule an initial SAN ID appointment or come as a walk-in (standby) for processing (see the Appointments/Walk-Ins section for more information). SAN ID badge applicants and signatories must be present at all initial processing of badge applicants. Each company is responsible for determining who is responsible for scheduling the fingerprinting appointment. Please check with your signatory before proceeding.
  4. Wait for confirmation of your background check clearance.
  5. Upon receipt of the background clearance approval, the applicant will come to the ACO lobby (First Floor, Terminal 2 East, 3707 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101). Once at the ACO lobby, please utilize the QLess App, QR code, or kiosk to join the “Training Only” line queue during the applicable timeframes for checking in. QLess is the ACO’s appointment/walk-in management system. A QLess Kiosk can be found on the front wall in the ACO lobby, along with a QR code for making appointments and joining the walk-in queues.
  6. Please note that a SAN ID will not be issued until ALL assigned training modules have been successfully completed. All training must be successfully completed within 30 days of the effective background approval date.

Badge Expiration Information

SAN ID badges expire on a set day each month, and renewal on the same day isn’t guaranteed. Expired badges won’t grant access, and working or being escorted with one is prohibited. If expired over 30 days, you must return the badge to the ACO and may need to restart the badge process with applicable fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego International Airport (SAN) provides seamless travel experiences with nonstop flights to destinations worldwide, offering convenient services and amenities for all travelers.

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