Before You Drive to Boyd Unit: Final Checks to Avoid a Wasted Trip
A few quick checks before you leave can save you a long drive and a cancelled visit. Run through this list before heading to Boyd Unit.
Do one last check before you hit the road. Boyd Unit updates visitation info once daily on weekdays and multiple times on visitation days - what you saw earlier might not be accurate anymore. Pull up the current unit visitation schedule and confirm visitation hasn't been canceled. Unit-wide cancellations are posted on the TDCJ homepage, and if visitation is off, even eligible inmates can't receive visitors that day. Once you've checked online, call the unit for final confirmation before making the drive.
When you call, confirm the basics that most often derail visits. First, verify the inmate is assigned to Boyd Unit and currently has visitation privileges. Then confirm you're on the approved visitor list. Not sure? Contact the unit and ask for verification before you travel.
Call tip: Don't have the number saved? Find unit phone numbers on the TDCJ visitation site so you can contact Boyd Unit directly.
Bring a valid photo ID. Show up without one, and your visit ends at the front desk.
Do a quick clothing check before you leave. Boyd Unit enforces visitation clothing guidelines, and getting turned away for a dress code violation is one of the easiest ways to waste a trip.
Visiting with kids: Some inmates can't receive visitors age 17 or under. Verify child visitor eligibility ahead of time - don't arrive with a minor who won't be admitted.
Prohibited Items
- ✓ Cell phones - no cell phones inside the secure perimeter
- ✓ Smartwatches
- ✓ Laptop computers
- ✓ Cameras
- ✓ Digital recorders
- ✓ Any other type of electronic or wireless device
Electronics aren't the only problem. Contraband also includes alcoholic beverages, controlled substances or any drug, firearms or other deadly weapons, and items brought onto TDCJ property with intent to deliver to an inmate - things like paper money, tobacco, lighters, or matches. If you're unsure about something, leave it at home or in your vehicle rather than risk being turned away.
Keep cash simple: bring only coins, and no more than $35 total. Leave bills at home or locked in your vehicle so you don't get stopped at check-in.
Expect screening. Vehicles and visitors are subject to search by unit staff, so anything prohibited in your car or on your person can still cause problems - even if you planned to "leave it outside."
Last Minute Checklist
- ✓ Call Boyd Unit right before you leave; check that visitation hasn’t been canceled and the schedule is current
- ✓ Bring a valid photo ID for check-in
- ✓ Double-check your outfit meets the visitation clothing guidelines
- ✓ Leave electronics behind (especially cell phones - none are allowed inside the secure perimeter)
- ✓ Bring coins only, up to $35; no paper cash
- ✓ If a child (17 or under) is coming, confirm they’re eligible to visit for this inmate before you travel
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