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How Long Does a Visit Last at a TDCJ Unit? Understanding the two-hour visiting period and extended visits

Planning a visit to a TDCJ unit? The most useful thing to understand is how that two-hour window actually works—and what options exist if you're traveling from far away.

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
How Long Does a Visit Last at a TDCJ Unit? Understanding the two-hour visiting period and extended visits

TDCJ units hold visits on weekends: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. That's the window for checking in and completing your visit. Arrive early enough to get through processing and still have time for your full two hours.

A regular visit lasts two hours. Here's what catches people off guard: the clock doesn't start when you walk in the door. It starts when both you and the inmate are together. Delays at check-in, waiting for the inmate to be brought out, getting seated - all of that eats into your time before it officially begins.

Picture the two-hour visit as a timer that only starts once you're seated together. Show up late in the visiting window, and you might not have enough time left to complete a full visit. Build in extra time for check-in and waiting - that's how you protect those two hours.

Traveling a long distance? TDCJ offers extended visits for visitors coming more than 250 miles one way. These require warden approval and depend on available time and space. When granted, an extended visit can last up to four hours - a real difference if you're driving several hours for a single weekend trip.

  1. Check your one-way distance - Extended visits are tied to traveling more than 250 miles one way.
  2. Ask about extended-visit availability before you travel - Approval is discretionary and depends on time and space at the unit.
  3. Be ready to share travel details - The unit may ask questions to confirm you meet the distance requirement.
  4. Confirm what you’re approved for - If granted, extended visits may be up to four hours, so clarify what the unit is allowing for that day.
How Long Does a Visit Last at a TDCJ Unit? Understanding the two-hour visiting period and extended visits

Practical Tips

  • ✓ Plan around the normal weekend visiting window (Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.).
  • ✓ Arrive early so you have time for check-in and seating before your two-hour visit period begins.
  • ✓ If you’re traveling more than 250 miles one way, call ahead to ask whether an extended visit may be permitted that day.
  • ✓ Bring information that supports your travel distance in case the unit asks for details.

Note: Extended visits aren't guaranteed. Even if you meet the 250-mile distance requirement, approval depends on time and space. Call ahead to confirm before making the drive.

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