What to Expect at Georgia DOC Family Day: Registration, Check-In and Time Limits

You must register ahead of time to attend Georgia DOC Family Day. Show up without registering, and you won't get in.

Only people on the offender's approved visitation list can register. Confirm you're on that list before making any plans.

Registration opens during a set window and fills up fast. For example, one recent event opened December 15, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. and closed January 15, 2026 at midnight - but it also had a hard cap of 213 registrants. Once that limit was hit, the portal closed.

Check-in happens at Building A. Everything starts there, so plan your arrival around getting through that first step.

• ✓ A valid ID
• ✓ The offender’s GDC number (have it ready at check-in)

Security screening keeps the line moving, so travel light. Bring just the essentials - your ID, keys, and maybe a pen and paper - to avoid delays at check-in.

At check-in, you'll receive a color-coded number. This matches the representative or section you need, and staff use it to direct you when it's your turn.

Staff move people in groups, not one by one. When your number is called, expect to be ushered with about 15–20 others to the appropriate area.

Family Day is designed to help as many people as possible. Keep your time with each GDC representative to about 10 minutes - come prepared to get to the point.

Want to speak with the Commissioner? It's first-come, first-served, limited to 18 people total. Each meeting lasts no more than 10 minutes.

Need physical assistance? Let a GDC representative know at check-in so they can help you navigate the event.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You'll likely be walking or standing for extended periods, and being uncomfortable makes a long day feel even longer.

1. Think through what you need to ask - before you arrive, take a minute to decide what questions you want answered.
2. Write your questions down - having them on paper helps you use your time well, especially with short meetings.