Visitor Policies For Most Prisons and Jails
Most prisons, jails, detention centers and work camps follow similar visitation rules. All have specific policies for visiting an inmate -- most pertain to what you can bring in, what you can do during the visit, and what you are and are not allowed to wear.
There are also rules on how to put money on an inmate's books and how to address and send mail to them at any jail in the world.
One thing worth cautioning: in order to visit your incarcerated friend or family member, you must be on their approved visitors list. If you are not on the visitation list you will not be allowed access to the facility. Have the inmate add you to the list and let you know when it is the right time to visit. Many families are turned away because they were not on the prison visitation list or did not know the rules of the institution.
To find the specific rules for any prison or jail, use our inmate search to locate the facility. Once you find the prison, if they have a visitors policy, a link will be provided to go directly to it.
Simple Prison Visitation Rules To Follow
Bring Two Forms of Photo ID
Make sure you have two forms of photo identification with you. This could be a driver's license, military ID, state ID or passport. Without valid ID you will not be admitted.
No Contraband
Do not bring anything into the facility that is on the banned items list. This includes tobacco, as most facilities are tobacco-free. If you are caught bringing any illegal substance into a prison you can be prosecuted on misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the laws of that state.
Dress Appropriately
Wear underwear. You and all your belongings are subject to search upon entering the prison visitors area. Dress modestly and follow the facility's dress code -- some prisons prohibit certain colors that may be associated with prison uniforms or gang affiliation.
Leave Excessive Jewelry at Home
Do not wear excessive jewelry. Not only will it slow you down at the metal detectors, but other inmates may notice and perceive your family as wealthy. This could put your loved one at risk of being extorted. Keep the gold and diamonds at home.
Know the Rules About Children
Do not bring children if it is not allowed. Often a child will not be permitted entry based on the rules set by the facility. Check the facility's policy before bringing children, and have a backup plan if they are not admitted.
Ladies -- No Underwire Bras
Do not wear a brassiere with an underwire. It will set off the metal detectors and you may be searched or denied entry. Wear a sports bra with no underwire if possible.
Be Respectful of Officers
Remember to be respectful of the correctional officers. They are there to do a job -- to keep your loved one safe from other inmates and the public safe from your loved one. If you are disruptive you may be asked to leave, trespassed, and told never to return. Keep in mind that other inmates are also trying to visit with their families.
Follow Touching Rules
Do not attempt to touch the inmate if it is not allowed. Always abide by the facility's contact rules. It is best to know them before you visit -- a brief hug or handshake may be permitted at the start and end of a visit at some facilities, while others allow no physical contact at all.
Keep Conversations Private
Do not talk loud enough for other people to hear, especially if the conversation needs to be private. Other inmates may overhear sensitive information about finances or family matters and use it against your loved one. Keep important information between yourselves.
Why Visitation Matters
Keep in mind that the visit is not only to build morale for your incarcerated friend or loved one -- it is also for you. Very few people outside the situation will understand what you, as a family member, are going through. You need the reassurance of knowing that the person you care about is okay. You are showing them love and commitment by being there, and that means more than you may realize.
If you need help navigating the legal side of a family member's case, JailGuide recommends consulting with a qualified criminal attorney. You can post your legal question here for free.