How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements
Visiting at Cotulla Unit starts with the TDCJ visitation scheduler. You'll need to create your own account—unit staff can't do this for you—and complete setup using the email link and 7-digit validation code. When adding an inmate, have their 8-digit TDCJ or SID number ready, and enter phone numbers in the required XXX XXX XXXX format. Cotulla offers multiple visit types (Regular, Contact, and Video/Tablet), though not every option is available for every inmate. Some remote video visits go through a separate vendor website, distinct from Securus video. Keep in mind that visitation is a privilege managed by the warden and can be restricted for rule violations, lockdowns, disturbances, or health and safety emergencies. Each inmate can have up to 10 approved visitors. Before traveling, confirm the inmate's unit assignment and privileges, call ahead, and bring acceptable photo ID.
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Before you can request a visit at Cotulla Unit through TDCJ's Online Visitation Scheduler, you'll need to create your own account. Here's what trips people up most: the email validation code, phone-number formatting, and finding the correct 8-digit inmate number.
Trying to set up a video visit with someone at a TDCJ facility? The confusing part: there's more than one system. Here's how the kiosk-style
Planning a visit to the Cotulla Unit is straightforward once you know the schedule, how long visits last, and what might affect whether you get in.
A long drive is hard enough—getting turned away at the gate makes it worse. Use this checklist to confirm the person you're visiting is actually at Cotulla Unit, visitation is happening that day, and you have everything you need to get through the door.
Remote video (kiosk/tablet) visits must be scheduled through the vendor website specified by the unit. These are separate from contact/general visits where allowed, and they may be limited to one visit per month for up to 60 minutes.
Yes—extended visits may be allowed at the warden’s discretion if you travel more than 250 miles one way, and they may last up to four hours. Call the unit to request and confirm approval, since visitation can be restricted for safety or disciplinary reasons.
Bring an acceptable photo ID (the unit provides the list of approved IDs). Before you leave, confirm the inmate’s unit assignment and visitation privileges, and call the unit for final confirmation.
Sending money to someone at the Cotulla Unit is straightforward once you pick the right deposit method. Where people get tripped up: eligibility rules, processing timing, fees, and the 14-day hold on certain deposits.
