SAN Gate Pass Program

The SAN Gate Pass allows non-ticketed individuals to go through security screening and visit and experience Terminal 2. Whether you're seeing off a loved one, greeting an arriving traveler, or simply enjoying the shops and restaurants, the SAN Gate Pass makes it possible.

Step 1: Apply Online

You can apply the same day or up to seven days in advance. If you’re unable to select a specific date, it means capacity has been reached for that day.

To apply, you’ll need to provide:

• Your full legal name, date of birth, and gender (as they appear on your TSA-approved photo ID)

Once submitted, you'll receive a confirmation email that your request has been received.

REAL ID Reminder:

Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued driver’s licenses or IDs must be REAL ID-compliant to access the security checkpoint. Check with your state’s DMV if you're unsure whether yours is compliant.

Step 2: TSA Review and Approval

TSA will review your request:

Advance applicants will receive their approval email after midnight on the morning of their visit.
If you're applying the same day as your visit, you can expect an approval email within about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Use Your SAN Gate Pass

If approved, your SAN Gate Pass will be sent to you by email as a PDF attachment.

At the airport:

Head to the general screening line at Terminal 2
Open the SAN Gate Pass attachment on your mobile device and be prepared to present both it and your TSA-approved photo ID to the TSA officer.

Important Guidelines

Printed copies of the SAN Gate Pass cannot be accepted — please have it available on your mobile device.
All SAN Gate Pass holders must comply with TSA screening procedures, including all restrictions on prohibited items.
TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and other expedited screening options are not available.
A limited number of passes are available each day and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to TSA approval.
This is a pilot program and may be adjusted, suspended, or canceled at any time based on airport operations or security requirements.

Violations

Individuals who present a potential security concern, cause disruption or distraction to Airport personnel, passengers, or other guests, interfere with airport operations, or violate program guidelines may be removed from the Airport and may lose the privilege of participating in the SAN Gate Pass program.

SAN Gate Pass FAQ

No. The SAN Gate Pass is intended only for individuals who are not flying — no exceptions.

You may apply on the day of your visit or up to seven days in advance.
For advance requests, approval notifications are emailed after midnight on the day of your visit.
For same-day requests, approval emails are typically sent within 15 minutes.
Entry is only permitted with an approved SAN Gate Pass. Please wait to receive your confirmation before arriving at the terminal.

If you applied in advance, you will receive an email after midnight on the day of your visit with your approval status and SAN Gate Pass attached.
For same-day requests, you’ll receive an email within 15 minutes if approved, with your pass attached.

Any valid TSA-approved photo ID may be used to apply for a SAN Gate Pass.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use a state-issued ID, it must be REAL ID-compliant. If you're unsure about your ID’s status, please check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

All SAN Gate Pass visitors must follow the same TSA security procedures as ticketed passengers.

TSA Prohibited Items also apply to SAN Gate Pass holders.
Attempting to bring these items may result in confiscation or denial of entry.

If a date is unavailable for selection, the daily allocation of SAN Gate Passes for that day has already been filled.

Minors must have their own gate pass. Parents or guardians must add any minors as additional visitors to their pass application.
Adults must bring their own SAN Gate Pass and the gate passes for any minors they are escorting.
All minors must be accompanied by an approved adult SAN Gate Pass holder at all times.
One adult may supervise up to three minors.

No. If you're picking up or dropping off an unaccompanied minor, please coordinate directly with the airline.

Wheelchairs are assigned to assist ticketed passengers at SAN. Gate Pass participants are welcome to bring their own wheelchairs.

Badge holders are eligible to receive a SAN Gate Pass when NOT on official business.

Not Permitted:

Using a SAN Gate Pass in place of a lost, expired, or suspended badge.
Using your badge to access non-public areas of the airport while visiting with a gate pass.

Violations may result in administrative penalties, including badge suspension or revocation.

No. The SAN Gate Pass is only valid for general security checkpoint access. Expedited access lanes such as CLEAR® or TSA Pre✓® are unavailable for gate pass holders.

No. International arriving passengers must first clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection in a secure area that is not accessible via the SAN Gate Pass.

You do not need a gate pass to meet passengers in the international arrivals lobby once they exit the secure area.

Personal information is used for TSA screening and authorization.

Privacy Act Statement:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), requires this information under 49 U.S.C. § 114 and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Submission is voluntary, but failure to provide this information will result in denial of a SAN Gate Pass.

TSA may share your information with law enforcement, intelligence agencies, or other authorized entities per its published system of records notice. For more details on TSA privacy policies, visit www.tsa.gov.

For general information about TSA procedures and regulations, visit www.tsa.gov.

Still have questions?

Email us at SANAssist@san.org. This inbox is monitored during business hours, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.