Bringing Children to Visit at Bowie County Jail: Rules for Minors and Guardians

Minors can't just show up at the door. Anyone under 18 must be on the inmate's approved visiting list before they can visit. The child also needs to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who's on that same list.

The facility uses an Inmate Visitation Request Form to handle approvals. The visitor fills this out - not the inmate. Complete the form fully. For families, the adult accompanying the child should handle the paperwork and include all required information for the minor.

1. Complete the Visitation Request Form - fill it out fully, since the form instructs visitors to complete it in its entirety.
2. Mail or hand-deliver the form - send it to: Bowie County Detention Center, C/O Control, 105 W. Front St., Texarkana, TX 75501.

The core rules are clear: minors must be on the approved visiting list and accompanied by an approved parent or legal guardian. What's less clear is exactly what documentation the jail requires for children - acceptable ID for a minor, or whether you'll need proof of guardianship like a birth certificate or court paperwork. These details can mean the difference between a successful visit and getting turned away. Confirm the requirements before you try to add a minor or bring them along.

Quick Tips

• ✓ Make sure the child is on the inmate’s approved visiting list before you plan the trip.
• ✓ Confirm the accompanying adult is a parent/legal guardian and is also approved on the inmate’s visitation list.
• ✓ Fill out the Visitation Request Form completely, with the child’s information entered clearly and consistently.
• ✓ Submit the form by mail or hand delivery to: Bowie County Detention Center, C/O Control, 105 W. Front St., Texarkana, TX 75501.
• ✓ Bring any ID and guardianship paperwork you have available, and call ahead to confirm what the facility will require for a minor.