District of Columbia Courthouse Security Line Wait Times & Hours (2026)

Short answer: Arrive at least 20 to 35 minutes before your scheduled courtroom call. Monday and Tuesday mornings have the longest magnetometer lines due to new jury panels checking in simultaneously. Updated 2026-11-04

Morning security checkpoint wait times in District of Columbia range from 10 to 10 minutes during peak 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM docket call. The longest typical queue is at District of Columbia Courthouse (Washington) (~10 mins). DC Superior Court (Moultrie Courthouse) permits cell phones and laptops for jurors and the public, subject to complete ban on photography or recording inside the building.

County CourthouseCitySecurity line wait timesPhone LockersJuror Parking
District of Columbia
District of Columbia Courthouse (Washington)
“Peak screening window is 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM during Monday/Tuesday jury call (10 min typical queue at magnetometers; belts, metal, and bags x-rayed).”
Washington ~10 mins peak (arrive 20 mins early) No lockers Free Validated
Going to Court Without a Lawyer?

Skip the Security Line & Protect Your Record in DC

If you have a Traffic Ticket, Speeding/CDL Violation, DUI, Misdemeanor, or Family Court hearing in DC, a licensed local attorney can often appear in court on your behalf—saving you from missing work, risking a bench warrant, or taking points on your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for an 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM court date in District of Columbia?

Arrive at least 20 to 35 minutes before your scheduled courtroom call. Monday and Tuesday mornings have the longest magnetometer lines due to new jury panels checking in simultaneously.

How is this courthouse policy data verified?

We verify every county against official Court Administrative Orders (.gov), Jury Commissioner instructions, and Sheriff Court Security directives. Last verified 2026-11-04.

More Courthouse Rules in District of Columbia

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