Bringing Children to Visit at Cook County Jail: Rules for Minors and Parents

Minors (17 or under) can only visit Cook County Jail if they're with a parent or guardian who has been approved for visitation privileges. That adult must also be visiting the same person in custody.

Cook County uses an online application to schedule in-person visits. Questions about scheduling? The jail directs visitors to email DOC.visitation@ccsheriff.org. If you can't schedule because you haven't been approved yet, check the Individual in Custody Locator or contact the Visitor Information Unit at 773-674-8225 or 773-674-8194 to learn how to get approved.

Here's where things get confusing. One Cook County source says up to two approved adults may accompany minors into the CCDOC. Another says one approved adult may bring up to three minors. Since both versions appear in official materials, confirm the current limit before bringing children to visit.

Once you arrive, keep your group tight and follow the rules. Cook County Jail can suspend or terminate visitation access for visitors who attempt to bring in or pass suspected contraband.

Every visitor needs a current, valid photo ID that shows their address. The ID you present must match what you used on the visitation application, so use the same document when applying and when checking in.

Not sure what documentation you'll need? Confirm before you go. If you need help getting approved (or the scheduling system won't let you book), check the Individual in Custody Locator or contact the Visitor Information Unit at 773-674-8225 or 773-674-8194.

Verify Before You Visit Checklist

• ✓ Confirm you are approved and can schedule your in-person visit in the Cook County online scheduling application.
• ✓ If you are not approved and cannot schedule, check the Individual in Custody Locator or contact the Visitor Information Unit at 773-674-8225 or 773-674-8194.
• ✓ Verify how many adults can accompany minors for your visit, since Cook County publishes conflicting guidance (either up to two approved adults accompanying minors, or one approved adult bringing up to three minors).
• ✓ Make sure every adult visitor has CURRENT/VALID photo ID showing address.
• ✓ Double-check that the ID you will present at check-in is the same ID used on your visitation application.
• ✓ For scheduling questions, email DOC.visitation@ccsheriff.org.

1. Try the in-person visitation scheduling site: If you cannot schedule, it may be because you are not approved.
2. Use the approved channels to get approved: Check the Individual in Custody Locator or contact the Visitor Information Unit at 773-674-8225 or 773-674-8194 for information on how to become approved.
3. Schedule again after approval: Return to the scheduling application once your approval is in place.