IDOC's Dress Code for Visitors: What to Wear (and What Not to Wear)

Every visitor must wear underwear. Female visitors must also wear a bra. These aren't suggestions - they're entry requirements. Staff can turn you away if you don't meet them.

Dress for a prison environment: clothing needs to be appropriate and non-revealing. IDOC specifically bans outfits that expose the buttocks or breasts, along with anything sexually explicit, offensive, or degrading. Gang-related clothing is another dealbreaker - anything resembling a Security Threat Group symbol or communication can end your visit before it starts.

Specific Examples

• ✓ Wear underwear (required for all visitors)
• ✓ If you’re a female visitor, wear a bra (required)
• ✓ Choose clothing that does not reveal the buttocks or breasts
• ✓ Dresses, shorts, and skirts must extend to the knee
• ✓ Skip clothing that is sexually explicit, offensive, or degrading
• ✓ Avoid anything that suggests gang affiliation or other illegal activity (Security Threat Group symbols/communication)

Religious headgear is generally allowed if there are no safety or security concerns. IDOC's policy covers kufi, yarmulke, turban, habit, and fez. Expect staff to remove and thoroughly search it before you enter the visiting room.

Non-religious headgear works differently. You'll need to submit a written request to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) at least 10 days before your visit - and get approval - before wearing it inside.

Minor rule issues get one warning from the Visiting Room Officer. After that, any further problems must be reported. Don't count on multiple chances to fix things once you're inside.

Dress code violations carry real consequences. Continued problems can lead to temporary or permanent loss of visiting privileges. The process is straightforward: one warning for minor issues, then documentation if it continues.