Live CBP Wait Times
Bridge of the Americas Wait Times
9999 Americas Ave, El Paso, TX 79905 · 24 hours, 7 days a week
CBP data last updated at 3:08 AM MT
Current Wait Times
Personal Vehicle
1h 5m
Pedestrian
5 min
SENTRI
N/A
Lanes open — Vehicle: 3 · Pedestrian: 1 · SENTRI: 0
Today's Crossing Pattern
BOTA sees its heaviest personal vehicle traffic on Monday mornings as weekend travelers return to El Paso, and on Friday afternoons heading south. Commercial traffic peaks mid-week. The bridge operates 24/7 but SENTRI and commercial lane hours may be limited overnight.
For the most accurate real-time data, check the BorderETA app — it sends push alerts when your crossing drops below your target wait time.
Weekly Wait Patterns
| Day | Best Windows | Busiest Periods |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5am–7am, 10pm–12am | 7am–10am, 3pm–7pm |
| Tuesday | 5am–7am, 9pm–12am | 7am–9am, 4pm–6pm |
| Wednesday | 5am–7am, 9pm–12am | 7am–9am, 4pm–6pm |
| Thursday | 5am–7am, 9pm–12am | 7am–9am, 4pm–6pm |
| Friday | 5am–7am, 10pm–12am | 7am–10am, 3pm–8pm |
| Saturday | 6am–8am, 10pm–12am | 10am–6pm |
| Sunday | 6am–8am, 8pm–12am | 12pm–7pm |
Based on historical CBP data patterns. Actual conditions vary with events, season, and staffing.
About Bridge of the Americas
The Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) is the busiest port of entry in the El Paso / Ciudad Juárez area and one of the most active crossings on the entire US-Mexico border. It handles personal vehicles, pedestrians, and commercial cargo, making it a critical artery for trade and daily commuters alike. Located south of downtown El Paso, BOTA connects the US interstate system directly to Mexico's Federal Highway 45 into the interior of Chihuahua.
US Side Nearby
- • Fort Bliss Military Base
- • El Paso International Airport
- • Americas Ave commercial corridor
- • Zaragoza industrial district
Mexico Side Nearby
- • Ciudad Juárez city center
- • Zona Industrial Juárez
- • Puerto de Anapra
- • Parque Central
Getting There — Parking & Transit
🅿️ Parking Options
Americas Ave Surface Lots
Several commercial lots line Americas Ave within 2–3 blocks of the port. Typical cost $3–6/day. Arrive before 7am on weekdays to secure a spot.
CBP Port Visitor Parking
Limited short-term visitor parking is available directly at the port for those conducting business with CBP. Not intended for pedestrian crossers.
Freeway-Adjacent Lots
Lots near the I-10 / Americas Ave interchange offer easy freeway access. Walk is 5–10 minutes to the crossing.
🚌 Transit Options
Sun Metro Route 51
Runs along Americas Ave corridor connecting to downtown El Paso and the El Paso International Airport area. Check current schedules at smetro.org.
Sun Metro Route 65 (Zaragoza)
Provides east–west connection between BOTA area and Ysleta, useful for travelers needing to switch crossings.
Practical Tips
- →BOTA is the only El Paso crossing with all lane types: personal vehicle, pedestrian, SENTRI, Ready Lane, and commercial — but not all lanes operate overnight.
- →If driving to park and walk, arrive before 7am on weekdays to avoid both the parking rush and the pedestrian queue building at the same time.
- →The crossing is located at the southern terminus of Americas Ave. GPS to '9999 Americas Ave, El Paso, TX' for the most accurate routing.
- →Juárez-side taxi stands are immediately past the Mexican immigration building — agree on a fare before getting in.
Available Lanes
SENTRI enrollment is available through CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs. SENTRI holders typically cross in a fraction of standard lane wait times.
Get Alerts When the Wait Drops
Set your target wait time and BorderETA will push a notification the moment Bridge of the Americasdrops below it. No more refreshing — just cross when you want to.
Download the App — FreeCrossing right now?
Share what you're seeing in line. Your real-time report helps thousands of other BorderETA users plan smarter crossings today. Takes 10 seconds in the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What lanes are open at Bridge of the Americas?
BOTA offers standard personal vehicle lanes, pedestrian lanes, SENTRI lanes, Ready Lane, and commercial vehicle lanes. Lane availability varies by time of day — SENTRI and commercial lanes may have limited overnight hours. Check BorderETA for current lane status.
Does Bridge of the Americas have a SENTRI lane?
Yes, BOTA has dedicated SENTRI lanes for pre-approved travelers. SENTRI significantly reduces wait times, especially during peak morning and afternoon hours. You must enroll through CBP's Trusted Traveler Programs at ttp.cbp.dhs.gov.
What are BOTA's hours?
The Bridge of the Americas is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for personal vehicles. Some specialized lanes such as SENTRI and commercial may operate on reduced schedules — verify with CBP before crossing.
How do I get to BOTA from downtown El Paso?
From downtown El Paso, take I-10 East to the Americas Ave exit, then head south on Americas Ave for approximately 2 miles. The port of entry is at the southern end of Americas Ave. Parking is available near the crossing.
Is Bridge of the Americas open 24 hours?
Yes. BOTA is one of the few El Paso crossings that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for personal vehicles.