Scheduling Your First IDOC Visit: Using SignUpGenius and What to Expect at Check‑In
Your first in-person IDOC visit goes smoother when you handle scheduling and check-in in the right order. Here's how to book through SignUpGenius, when to arrive, and what staff will expect at the door.
Book your visit through IDOC's SignUpGenius page. Some facilities also maintain their own SignUpGenius page, so double-check that you're selecting the one matching your loved one's current location.
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time. Check-in takes a few minutes, and first-time visitors often need to complete paperwork before entering.
- ✓ Two forms of identification (adults)
- ✓ At least one current state‑issued photo ID (must be one of your two forms)
Adult visitors (18+) must complete a Prospective Visitor's Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) before visiting. Legal visitors and government officials are exempt. On your first visit, you'll fill this out at check-in - unless you already received prior approval through the electronic PVI process. Completing the electronic version ahead of time saves stress at the door.
At the Visitor Center, officers will conduct a body search. Staff can also deny entry if you appear intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If there's any chance a medication or substance could raise questions, handle it before you travel. Getting turned away at the door is a hard way to learn this rule.
Pack light. Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smart watches), food and drink, purses and bags, books and magazines, sunglasses, and personal keys aren't allowed in the Visiting Room. Small lockers are available in the Visiting Center, so you don't have to choose between leaving things in your car or missing your visit.
Even with a scheduled time, the facility's chief administrative officer can deny, suspend, or restrict your visit. Common reasons: security concerns, limited space, disruptive conduct by either party, abuse of visiting privileges, or violations of state, federal, or departmental rules. If something might flag your visit, sort it out beforehand rather than trying to argue at the front desk.
Tip: Before driving a long distance, confirm with your loved one that you're on their approved visitor list. IDOC staff can't verify your status for you, so don't count on a last-minute check.
- Complete the PVI ahead of time - If you’re 18+ (and not a legal visitor or government official), you’ll need the Prospective Visitor’s Interview (DOC 0148) unless you already completed the electronic PVI.
- Arrive at least 10 minutes early - Give yourself enough time to get through check‑in without risking your scheduled slot.
- Use the Visiting Center lockers - Store personal items in the small lockers available onsite so you’re not turned away for bringing the wrong thing.
- Expect a body search - Officers at the Visitor Center will conduct a body search as part of entry.
- Leave prohibited items out of the Visiting Room - Keep electronics, food/drink, purses/bags, books/magazines, sunglasses, and personal keys out of the Visiting Room.
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