How to Schedule a Video Visit at Dallas County Jail (on-site and off-site)
Video visits at Dallas County Jail are straightforward once you understand the system. Here's the exact process to register, schedule, and avoid common issues—whether you're visiting on-site or from home.
Dallas County Jail uses SmartInmate (Smart Communications) for both on-site and off-site video visits. The key thing to know: every visit must be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance. Last-minute visits aren't an option.
First, register through SmartInmate. You must be at least 17 years old to register as a visitor, and you'll need a valid, government-issued photo ID during registration.
Bringing someone under 17? A parent or guardian must be present during the video visit.
Plan ahead. Visits must be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance, and approvals typically take up to 72 hours as well. If you have a specific day in mind, schedule as early as possible so you're not waiting on approval at the last minute.
Each video visit lasts 20 minutes. That goes fast - sign in on time and know what you want to talk about before the session starts.
- ✓ Off-site video visits: no weekly limit (inmates may receive unlimited off-site visits)
- ✓ On-site video visits: limited to 2 video visits per week
On-site video visits are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm. No on-site visits on Wednesdays - don't plan travel or take time off expecting to visit that day.
Age rules affect which days work. Anyone under 17 needs a parent or guardian present, and no children under 17 are allowed for on-site visits during the week. If you're bringing a minor, plan around these restrictions before booking.
Your start time is a hard start. Sign in late, and you won't get extra time - you'll only have whatever's left of your 20 minutes.
Video visitation is a privilege, and behavior matters. The Dallas County Sheriff's Department can deny, cancel, or end a visit based on misconduct - and they can restrict you from future video visits.
Assume the session is being watched and recorded. Dallas County Jail records all video visits and monitors them electronically. By participating, you're consenting to that recording and monitoring.
- Follow the clothing rule - No nudity, provocative clothing, or tight-fitting clothing is allowed during the video visit.
- Know the first penalty - A first violation results in being barred from both on-site and off-site video visits for 30 days.
- Avoid repeat violations - A second violation results in a 60-day ban, and a third violation results in a permanent ban from video visitation.
Warning: Video visits are recorded and monitored. Rule violations can end your session immediately and restrict your ability to schedule future visits.
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