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What to Expect When You Arrive for a North Carolina Prison Visit: Searches & Cell Phone Rules

Visiting a North Carolina state prison? Expect airport-style screening at the entrance. Knowing what gets checked and what you can't bring will save you from a wasted trip.

• 1 min read Verified from official sources

Every visitor must pass through a metal detector before entering a North Carolina state prison. This screening is part of the entrance process, so give yourself extra time. Staff check for anything that could set off the detector or raise a security concern.

Note: In addition to the metal detector, visitors age 16 and older are also subject to an electronic-device search before entry.

Visitors 16 and older will also go through a pat/frisk search and an electronic device check. These are standard safety measures designed to keep contraband out of the prison. Staff use the least intrusive methods possible.

Note: If you refuse to comply with the required search procedures, you will be denied entrance.

Prohibited Items

  • ✓ Cell phones (considered contraband)
  • ✓ Smartwatches
  • ✓ Cameras
  • ✓ Recording devices
  • ✓ Smart/AI glasses

Electronics like cell phones are banned inside state prison facilities. Staff actively screen for them during entry, and if a phone is found, it's treated as contraband. Your safest bet: leave your phone and any other prohibited electronics locked in your car before you go in.

Refusing to comply with required search procedures, including pat/frisk or electronic/device screening, means you will not be allowed to enter the facility.

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