Just ahead of the summer travel season 2026, San Francisco International Airport launched its visitor pass for non-travelers. Under the SFO Gate Explorer Program, individuals can enter the terminal without flight tickets, go past TSA security, and access the secure area to see off and receive family or friends. Following the launch of San Diego Airport’s Visitor Pass in November 2025, SFO joined the growing number of US airports where you can accompany your departing family or parents to the boarding gate. Just wow!
List of California airports having guest pass for non-ticketed visitors
- Ontario International Airport: ONT Visitor Pass
- Oakland International Airport: OAK Guest Pass
- Palm Springs International Airport: PSP Visitor Pass
- John Wayne International Airport: OC AirPass
- San Diego International Airport: SAN Pass
How to get SFO Gate Explorer Pass online
Applying for San Francisco Airport’s new Gate Pass is as easy as getting a visitor pass at Seattle International Airport or San Diego International Airport. You can apply online in advance or on the same day of your planned visit to the airport; approval is subject to availability.
- Apply through the official website of San Francisco International Airport up to 30 days in advance or on the same day.
- Enter your full legal name, date of birth, and gender exactly as mentioned on your government-issued ID.
- Each person must submit a separate application. For minors under 18, an application can be submitted with an adult, and they must remain under adult supervision during the visit.
- TSA reviews your application after submission. If approved, you will receive your SFO Gate Explorer pass by email after midnight on the day of your visit. If not approved, you will be informed about the ineligibility.
- At the airport, carry your digital or printed pass and present it along with a valid TSA-approved ID at the security checkpoint before entering the terminal.
Who can apply for SFO Gate Explorer pass
The SFO Gate Explorer program is available to non-ticketed visitors who want to access the secure side of the airport. You must be 18 years or older with a valid government-issued photo ID to apply. Minors are allowed but must be accompanied by an approved adult. Each minor must be included in an application, and they must stay with the adult throughout the visit.
This program is especially useful if you want to spend extra time with your loved ones before departure or welcome them inside the terminal after arrival. With an approved pass, your friends or family can meet you at the gate or even surprise you when you arrive at the airport.
Is there any fee for SFO Airport’s new gate pass?
No. The SFO Airport Gate Explorer pass is completely free for eligible visitors. There is no application fee. However, the pass is valid only for the day it is issued, and a limited number of passes are issued daily.
Valid hours for visitors with SFO Gate Explorer pass
The SFO Gate Explorer pass is valid only on the date of approval and works during the normal TSA security screening hours at San Francisco Airport. There are no fixed visitor timings, so entry is allowed both during the day and late night as long as the security checkpoints are open and operating.
