Alternatives to T1 Priority Security Screening at ORD?
 

Apologies if this topic was discussed before but I would like to hear opinions on how to get quickly through security at ORD. The priority line at Terminal 1 is sometimes enormously long and if you travel internationally, you cannot count on pre-check. Have people tried going to other terminals' screening and walk back to Terminal 1 after passing security or is there any other quick way?

I have been burned a couple of times recently as I usually allow no more than 15 min. for screening and the line was a good 40-50 min.

T2 is usually quick

When you enter ORD, go all the way to the left or right. To the left there is a full size security screening area there that is typically empty (typically opens around 6am), even when hundreds of people are lined up at the other checkpoints. On the far right, where Lufthansa used to be I believe, is a small checkpoint that is also shorter. If you fail pre-check, head left, it's no more than a 2 minute walk and the line will be shorter.

+1. The line all the way to the right is generally empty except for around 5am. I've never had more than 2-3 people ahead of me at any other time of the day there.

The only problem with "all the way right" is that they don't have pre-check there, unless this has recently changed.

No pre-check there, which adds to the quietness of it I'm sure (I can't currently get PreCheck as not a US citizen, so that's not a factor for me).

Unless there is a Lufthansa flight, in which case the line can be very long and slow. If no precheck, generally ok, or keep going left past the GS lounge to checkpoint 4 (I think that's the number).

Thank you very much for these insights--they are very valuable.

All the way to the left is Checkpoint 3. The line is frequently shorter, but I have found that it moves slower, since that checkpoint is used by crew and airport personnel, who get to cut in line.

+1. I've taken to going to T2 when the elite line at T1 is long. Also (knock on wood) I've managed to get the regular magnos there vs the nude-o-scopes. After I clear I walk back to the T1 B concourse or take the shuttle from E T2 to C T1.

Cheers.

I've been through the T2 priority line 4 times over the last 18 months, always WTMD.