Since its launch on July 1, Automated Passport Control at Chicago O’Hare International Airport has reduced the average wait time during peak hours by 16 minutes (33 percent).

Chicago O’Hare is the first airport in country to offer APC, now available for passengers at Terminal 5. The innovative system expedites travelers’ movement through the U.S. border clearance process by allowing them to enter information at a self-service kiosk.

“This technology reinforces Chicago’s leading position as a world-class destination for business and leisure travelers while spurring economic growth and smartly improving our nation’s security,” said Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “I am very grateful for the dedicated leadership of Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and officials at U.S. Customs and Border Protection in strengthening Chicago O’Hare as an international gateway and placing Terminal 5 at the forefront in innovative efficiency.”

The free service and does not require pre-registration or membership. Eligible passengers proceed directly to a self-service kiosk in the passport control area and no longer need to fill out a paper Customs declaration form. Travelers are prompted to scan their passport, take a photograph using the kiosk and, answer a series of questions verifying biographic and flight information, as well as to fill out their Customs declaration using the touch screen on the kiosk. Once passengers have completed the series of questions, a receipt is issued. Travelers then bring their passport and receipt to a CBP officer to finalize their inspection for entry into the United States.

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