- 01 Aug, 2025
Delta Airlines, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the most popular airlines in the world. It has a vast network and is known for the excellent travel experience it offers. Check-in is one of the services provided by Delta Airlines. There are several different check-in methods that you can consider to get your boarding pass, such as the Delta Airlines online check-in, mobile check-in and more. So, if you want to complete your Delta Airlines check-in process but have doubts regarding the process. Then, you can go through the information in this post, which contains all the essential information about Delta Airlines check-in.
What are the check-in options with Delta Airlines?
You can choose from numerous Delta Airlines check-in options and complete them to get your boarding pass. Read and understand the following check-in methods of the Delta airlines that are as follows:
Online Check-in (Web Check-in)
The online or web check-in for Delta Airlines starts up to 24 hours before departure. So, you can easily obtain the boarding pass for your flight by following the steps, which are as follows, that will help you to complete the web check-in process:
- Visit the official website of Delta airlines.
- Click on the check-in option that is visible on the screen.
- You can enter your confirmation number and other required details on the next page.
- Then, continue to the check-in process by following the onscreen guidelines.
- Complete the process, and you can download your boarding pass.
Mobile Check-In via Delta App
Delta's mobile app makes travel much easier. From booking to getting the boarding pass, the app enables you to complete all the services online. You can easily check in through the Delta Airline mobile check-in. All you have to do is download the app, sign in to your reservation details, and tap on the "Check-in" when it becomes available, which is generally 24 hours prior to your flight. Then you will be able to access your mobile boarding pass.
Airport Kiosk Check-in
The kiosks are located in various airport areas, such as near the Delta Airlines check-in counters, departure gates, and baggage claim areas. So, you can find the kiosk at the airport and proceed to complete your check-in. During the process, you must enter your confirmation or e-ticket number and follow the onscreen guidelines. After that, you can complete your check-in for your flight and print your boarding pass.
Counter Check-in at the Airport
The Airport counter check-in is where you get the boarding pass and assistance with check-in. Visit the nearest airport and then go to the check-in counter located there. Talk to the executive in person, ask them to check you in, and provide you with the boarding pass for your Delta flight.
Delta Airlines check-in Timings: When should you arrive?
Delta Airlines imposes a specific check-in time limit under the Delta Air Lines check-in policy. Knowing the time limits is essential so you do not get late for your boarding pass. The time limits vary depending on your travel type, such as domestic and international. Here is the information about the check-in time for domestic and international travel that you can consider and complete your check-in accordingly.
For domestic Flights
For domestic travel, Delta Air Lines check-in counters generally open about 2 hours prior to your Delta Air Lines domestic flight. However, the boarding gates usually close around 15 minutes before the departure of your domestic flight. Therefore, you must arrive about 45 minutes early at the airport while travelling on Delta Airlines domestic flights.
For International Flights
For Delta Airlines international travel, you must review the recommended international check-in requirements, reach the gates, and be ready to board about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. So, if you are travelling internationally, you are advised to arrive early at the airport, about 2 hours before your international flight, and complete all the security procedures within the time.
Delta Check-in Baggage Policy
You must check in your baggage during check-in at the airport, and Delta Airlines has imposed a limit. So, if you do not want to face any problems or issues at the airport regarding your baggage. Here is some vital information about the baggage allowance of Delta Airlines that you can read and understand:
Check-in baggage allowance
The Check-in baggage allowance may vary depending on your fare type, route and destination you are travelling to. Customers can check in and choose the number of bags they want to carry and pay for them, or even redeem the miles towards bags during the 24-hour check-in window on Delta Airlines' official website. You can add up to 2 checked baggage to your ticket, which costs a fee. The size of your baggage must not exceed the limit of 158 cm.
Baggage fee
You must pay a fee when you add checked baggage to your Delta airline flight ticket. The first checked bag costs about 35 USD, and the second checked bag may cost about 45 USD. The baggage allowance varies by your route, the type of fare you are travelling with, and the type of fare you are travelling with. However, SkyMiles Medallion Members and Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members can check their first bag free of charge.
Extra baggage charges
Delta airlines allows you to carry extra baggage, but for that, you will have to pay some charges. The charges for the additional bags may vary depending on the various factors, including your fare type, time, and the route and destination you are travelling to. To get the information about the same, you can go through the following information which are as follows:
- For the 3rd checked bag, you will have to pay around 150 USD.
- To carry bags 4 to 10, you must pay around 200 USD each.
- For the excess baggage on international flights, the fee may range from 150 to 285 USD, depending on the route you are travelling.
Important Check-in Rules and Tips for Delta Airlines
You must know some essential rules and tips for Delta Airlines, as these ensure a smooth travel experience without any problems or issues. Here are some of the vital tips and rules that you can consider to have a smooth trip. You can read and apply the following rules and tips which are as follows:
- You must arrive early at the airport for your domestic and international flight schedules so that you have ample time for check-in, security, and potential delays.
- You must be prepared and have your government-issued photo ID and boarding pass readily available so that you do not face any problems at the airport.
- Ensure that you carry baggage according to your baggage allowance. This will prevent you from wasting time when checking in baggage.
- You must check the TSA Precheck to expedite your security screening process if eligible.
- If offered, check your carry-on bag before security to save time and carry it lighter.
- You can use the Fly Delta app to track your flight status, boarding information and any gate changes.
ID and Document Requirements
For Delta Airlines domestic flights, you need a government-issued photo ID. Acceptable IDs include a passport, driver's license, or other government-issued photo ID. If you are travelling internationally, you need a valid passport and visa documentation, if necessary and required for your travel. If there are any issues or you are having any doubts, then you can also contact the airline and get the required answers or information.
Late Check-in Rules
Delta Airlines advises passengers to arrive at the airport at the time the airline gives for check-in. If you arrive at the airport after check-in, you cannot check in or board your flight. If you are travelling outside the United States, then it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours prior to your departure. Per Delta check-in baggage policy, you must check in at least 1 hour prior to your scheduled departure.
Boarding gate info and Timing
The airline has some rules and regulations regarding gate closing and timings that you must follow. The airline recommends that you be at the gate and ready to board about 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. Some airports require checking in at an earlier time before your departure for your international flights. So, if you do not want to get late and miss your flight, then you must consider arriving at the airport before sufficient time from the departure and completing all your Delta flight check-in procedures within time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check in without a printed ticket?
Yes, you can check in for a Delta flight without a printed ticket. Like many airlines, Delta Air Lines allows you to use a digital boarding pass on your mobile device.
Does Delta charge for checking bags?
Yes, Delta typically charges for checked bags. The standard fee for the first checked bag is around 35 USD, and the second checked bag costs about 45 USD. The fee varies depending on factors like fare class, destination, and frequent flyer status.
Can I choose seats during check-in?
Yes, you can select or upgrade seats while checking in online or through the app.
How early can I check in online?
Online check-in opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
6. Final Tips for a Smooth Delta Check-In Experience
- Arrive early - especially for international travel or during peak hours
- Use online or mobile check-in to save time at the airport
- Verify baggage rules ahead of time to avoid surprises
- Download the Delta app for convenience and travel updates
- Keep your ID and documents ready at all times
