Before You Drive to Byrd Unit: 5 Things to Confirm So You Don't Waste a Trip
A quick confirmation now can save you a wasted trip. Run through these five checks before heading to Byrd Unit—you'll know you're arriving on the right day, with the right paperwork, and with your visit actually approved.
First, confirm the person you're visiting is actually assigned to Byrd Unit and has visitation privileges. Both can change. The posted visitation info updates once daily on weekdays and multiple times on visitation days - but a quick call to the unit gives you the most current answer. Worth the two minutes, especially if you're driving from out of town or juggling work and childcare.
Visiting hours are typically Saturdays and Sundays, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Even if you've been before, double-check the schedule before you leave - showing up outside the visiting window means no visit.
TDCJ uses a weekly "visiting cycle" that runs Monday through Sunday. Your weekend visit falls inside a specific cycle, so when you're planning around "this week" versus "next week," think Monday-to-Sunday - not just the calendar weekend.
Being family doesn't automatically mean you're approved. Before you drive out, verify you're on that inmate's approved Visitors List. Not sure? Call the unit. One common reason people get turned away: each inmate can only have 10 names on their list, so you might not be on it even if you expected to be.
ID Requirements
- ✓ If you’re 18 or older, bring a current, official government-issued photo ID.
- ✓ Make sure at least one ID you use shows your current physical address.
- ✓ If you’re a certified victim of family violence with address protection through the attorney general, the physical-address requirement has an exception.
Heads-up: Call the unit for final confirmation before traveling - schedules can change or visits can be canceled last-minute. Expect screening when you arrive, and leave commonly restricted items like your cell phone secured in your car so you don't get turned away at the door.
Find an Inmate at Byrd Unit, TX
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
