Domestic, carry-on only
Start with the scheduled landing time, then include deplaning and the walk to the Lower/Arrivals level.
Free LAX pickup calculator
When should I leave for a LAX airport pickup?
Enter the landing time and where you’re driving from. Get a specific time to leave for this pickup.
What you’ll get
One clear time to leave.
We’ll work backward from the landing, time to reach arrivals, and your drive.
Leave→Land→Meet
The short answer for a LAX pickup
For an LAX pickup, work backward from when the passenger is likely to reach the Lower/Arrivals curb—not from scheduled landing. Wait in an official cell phone lot until they are outside with their bags, then allow for traffic through the Central Terminal Area.
When the passenger may be ready
Domestic, checked bag
Add baggage-claim time before treating the passenger as ready at the curb.
International arrival
Add immigration, baggage claim and customs before the passenger can reach the public arrivals area.
Pickup rules
- Private passenger pickup is on the outer curb of the Lower/Arrivals level outside baggage claim.
- The arrivals curb is for active pickup; do not park or wait at the terminal curb.
- Ask the passenger to send the terminal and nearby column or door marker only after reaching the curb.
Where to wait
- LAX operates two free, 24-hour cell phone waiting lots for private drivers.
- The official parking guidance permits waits of up to two hours, requires the vehicle to remain attended and does not provide a terminal shuttle from the waiting lots.
Terminal details
- LAX terminals sit on a loop, so a wrong terminal can mean another pass through Central Terminal Area traffic.
- Confirm the airline's arrival terminal shortly before leaving; schedules and operating terminals can change.
Road access
- Approach traffic on Century Boulevard, Sepulveda Boulevard, the 105 and the 405 can change the final drive materially.
- The calculator estimates the drive to LAX; keep enough margin for the final terminal-loop segment.
LAX pickup questions
Where do I pick someone up at LAX?
LAX directs private passenger pickups to the outer curb on the Lower/Arrivals level outside baggage claim. Wait until the passenger is outside and ready before entering the terminal loop.
Can I wait at the LAX arrivals curb?
No. Use an official cell phone waiting lot, remain with the vehicle and drive to the terminal only after the passenger calls or texts from the curb.
Does this calculator track the arriving flight?
No. It uses the scheduled landing time and planning assumptions. Check the airline or LAX flight information for delays, terminal changes and the current arrival status before leaving.
Official airport sources
Reviewed September 20, 2026. Airport rules and flight operations can change, so confirm current guidance before leaving.