U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Los Angeles International (LAX) unveiled 40 new Automated Passport Control kiosks Wednesday as part of an effort to expedite the entry process for passengers arriving at the Tom Bradley International Terminal.
U.S. and Canadian citizens arriving from abroad and travelers from 38 Visa Waiver Countries who are registered with the CBP’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization program are eligible to use the machines, which allow travelers to submit their Customs declaration form and biographic information electronically in order to reduce the time spent with a CBP officer.
“The kiosks will allow passengers to avoid long lines and reduce wait times at Customs so they can be out the door faster and on their way to exploring the greatest city in the world,” says Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.
The service is free and does not require pre-registration or membership. Travelers who use the kiosks will still be inspected by CBP officers to verify the purpose and intent of their travel. But the self-service kiosk will remove administrative responsibilities on the part of CBP officers to scan travel documents. Passengers then proceed to baggage claim, Customs declaration and exit.
The project’s $2 million cost was funded by Los Angeles World Airports, which owns and operates LAX and two other Southern California airports.
