Visiting Beto Unit: What to Bring and What to Leave at Home

Checklist

• ✓ Bring a current, government-issued photo ID if you’re 18 or older.
• ✓ Leave your cell phone behind - no phones are allowed inside the secure perimeter.
• ✓ Call the unit before you travel to confirm visitation details haven’t changed.
• ✓ Bring only coins if you plan to use vending machines (no bills).

Adults 18 and older need a current government-issued photo ID at check-in. Student IDs don't count - staff want an official ID, so don't risk the drive with anything less. Bringing a child? Have some form of identification handy for them too, like a birth certificate or student ID, in case staff ask for it during processing.

Don't bring your phone past the secure perimeter. Even tucked in a pocket or bag, it can end your visit before it starts. Easiest solution: leave it at home or lock it in your car before you approach the entrance.

Cash trips people up constantly. Want money for vending machines? Bring coins only - and keep it minimal. Bills, large amounts of change, anything you don't absolutely need? Lock it in your car so you're not scrambling at the gate.

Expect screening when you arrive - vehicles and visitors are subject to search. Empty your pockets and bring only the essentials. Store everything else out of sight in your car before getting in line. If staff need to check your belongings, stay calm and follow directions. The process usually goes quickly.

Using the TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler? You'll need to create your own account - TDCJ staff can't do it for you. Don't show up expecting someone at the unit to set things up on the spot. Get your account ready ahead of time so scheduling doesn't become a last-minute scramble.

Coordinating a long trip with multiple family members? Plan carefully. Each inmate gets only one visit per weekend - so if someone visits Saturday, anyone arriving Sunday will be turned away. Before anyone hits the road, make sure everyone agrees on who's visiting and when.

1. Arrive with extra time - parking, check-in, and screening can take longer than you expect, especially if it’s busy.
2. Secure everything before you get in line - lock up phones and anything you don’t need so you’re not turned away for prohibited items.
3. Go in “search-ready” - vehicles and visitors are subject to search, so keep pockets empty and carry as little as possible.
4. Follow staff directions and be ready to wait - if staff pause entry or ask you to step aside, it usually means they’re managing traffic or completing checks.

• ✓ Diapers and wipes (if you’re bringing a baby or toddler)
• ✓ A change of clothes for young children
• ✓ Any necessary items for feeding a baby (pack only what you truly need)
• ✓ A small, simple comfort item for a child (avoid anything that could be considered prohibited)
• ✓ Coins for vending machines, if you plan to buy snacks/drinks