How to Schedule Your First In-Person Visit with Someone in IDOC
Your first IDOC visit goes smoothly when you do three things in order: confirm where the person is housed, make sure you're on their approved visitor list, and schedule a time online. Show up early with the right ID so you don't get turned away at the door.
Before scheduling anything, look up the incarcerated person using IDOC's inmate search tool. The search confirms you have the right person and shows which facility they're currently housed at - so you're booking at the correct location.
Next, make sure you're on the person's approved visitation list. The way to confirm? Write a letter and ask them to verify you're on their list. This step matters because staff won't confirm your status over the phone, and showing up without approval can waste a long trip.
Note: Calling the facility won't help - IDOC staff cannot verify whether you're on someone's approved list.
- Go to the IDOC online sign-up system (SignupGenius) - In-person visits must be scheduled online; you can’t just show up and expect to be worked in.
- Choose an available time slot - Pick a date and time that’s open for the facility where the person is housed.
- Submit your reservation - Complete the sign-up so your visit time is officially scheduled.
- Keep your confirmation - Save it so you have the details handy if you need to reference your scheduled time.
Tip: Screenshot or print your SignupGenius confirmation. You'll want it handy if questions come up at check-in.
Arrival-id-vehicle
- ✓ Two forms of identification
- ✓ One ID must be a current state-issued photo ID
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time. You'll need to provide vehicle information at check-in, so have your license plate number ready before you head to the entrance.
Warning: If you don’t have the required identification - or if you arrive late - you can be denied entry for your visit.
Visitors must be on the incarcerated person's approved list to get in. The only exceptions are government officials and legal visitors - everyone else needs approval before scheduling and traveling.
Note: Visits can be restricted or denied during lockdowns or other safety and security situations.
Traveling a long distance? Call the facility before you leave to confirm visits are happening. Lockdowns can suspend visitation without warning, and it's better to know before you're already on the road.
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