Registering Your Phone & What to Expect When Your Loved One Calls Crain Unit

Before you can receive calls from someone at the Christina Melton Crain Unit (TDCJ), you need to register your phone number through TDCJ's inmate telephone system. Have your loved one's TDCJ ID number handy - registration requires it, and missing this detail is what trips up most families the first time.

If you don’t have your loved one’s TDCJ ID number, you can look it up using the online inmate search. You can also request it by phone at (936) 295-6371 or (800) 535-0283.

ID Matching Rules

• ✓ You must confirm you are the registered owner of the telephone number.
• ✓ You must agree to allow the inmate to call the telephone number.
• ✓ You must be at least 18 years old.
• ✓ You must agree you will not forward calls, make three-way calls, or use a speakerphone on calls received from the inmate.

Here's a detail that catches people: the name on your driver license or state ID must match what's on your phone bill or telephone listing. If the phone account is under someone else in the household, that mismatch can block calls entirely. Fixing it is often the difference between staying connected and missing calls.

Facility landline phones are generally available from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight), though this can change based on conditions. Tablet phone options may have different hours. Need to reach someone with questions about phone services? The TDCJ Inmate Technology office takes calls Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (effective February 2, 2026), except state-recognized holidays.

1. Plan for a 30-minute cap - calls are limited to 30 minutes, so it helps to prioritize what you need to cover.
2. Listen for the one-minute warning - you’ll hear an automated warning message one minute before the call disconnects.

Calls can be billed a few different ways - pick whichever makes sense for your situation. Collect calls let you accept charges when the inmate calls. A Friends and Family prepaid account lets you deposit money upfront to cover incoming calls. There's also an inmate prepaid debit option (Securus Debit Account), where the inmate or family deposits money into the inmate's account for call costs.

If you need help with enrollment, registration, or general phone questions, you can call TDCJ Inmate Telephone at (866) 806-7804. Telephone inquiries are answered Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.