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Before Your First Visit to Alger: Checklist for a Smooth Check-In

First visits go smoother when you handle approval, timing, and ID before you ever get in the car. Use this checklist to avoid the most common check-in problems at Alger.

• 2 min read • michigan.gov
Before Your First Visit to Alger: Checklist for a Smooth Check-In

Before scheduling anything, confirm you're actually eligible to book a visit. MDOC uses the ViaPath visitation scheduling site for both in-person and video visits - you'll need to register there first. But having an account isn't enough. You won't be able to schedule until your MDOC visiting application has been approved.

Also confirm you're on the prisoner's Visiting List. Visitors have to be added at the prisoner's request. If you're not sure whether your name is on the list - or you applied a while ago and never heard back - contact the prisoner and ask them to add you. This is one of the fastest ways to prevent a wasted trip.

Treat check-in as part of your appointment. MDOC recommends arriving about 30 minutes before your scheduled visit. That gives you time for sign-in and any required screening without starting your visit stressed and behind.

Late arrival rule: Show up late, and that time comes off your visit. More than 60 minutes late? The visit may be cancelled - unless you call the facility ahead to let them know you're running behind.

Acceptable ID

  • ✓ Driver’s license (pictured)
  • ✓ State identification card (pictured)
  • ✓ Military identification card
  • ✓ Passport
  • ✓ Other government-issued pictured photo ID

Once you enter the facility, plan to stay put until the visit ends. You're required to remain in the lobby/restroom area or the visiting room - no access to non-public areas or outside. Brought something you can't take through the gate? Lockers are available to store unauthorized items during your visit.

Before Your First Visit to Alger: Checklist for a Smooth Check-In

Day of Practical Tips

  • ✓ Arrive about 30 minutes before your scheduled visit time.
  • ✓ Have your pictured government-issued photo ID out and ready at check-in.
  • ✓ Build in buffer time for traffic - late time is deducted from your visit.
  • ✓ If you’re going to be more than 60 minutes late, call ahead or you may lose the visit entirely.

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