How to Become an Approved Visitor (Apply, Get Approved, Register on ViaPath)
Visiting someone in an Ohio prison requires two steps: first, get approved as a visitor, then register on ViaPath to schedule your visit. Here's how to move through the process without getting stuck.
Start by filling out the ODRC visitation application (DRC-2096). You can get the packet by having the incarcerated person mail one to you, or download it yourself. This step has to happen first - you can't register on ViaPath to book visits until you've been approved for the specific person you want to see. Include a clear, legible copy of your photo ID with your packet.
Important: Send your visitation application packet to the facility - not to ODRC’s central mail processing.
Answer every question carefully and honestly. Applications can be denied if ODRC believes your visits won't have a positive effect on the incarcerated person's attitude, behavior, adjustment, or reentry. The goal is to show that your presence will be stabilizing and supportive.
When your packet is ready, send it directly to the institution where you want to visit. Don't mail it to ODRC's central mail processing center (OMPC). Sending it to the wrong place can slow everything down significantly.
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- ✓ Letter from your probation/parole officer granting permission to visit (only if you are currently on probation or parole)
- ✓ Custody paperwork (have it ready when you arrive for visitation at Dayton)
- ✓ Birth certificate (have it ready when you arrive for visitation at Dayton)
- ✓ Authorization for Minor Child Visitation form (have it ready when you arrive for visitation at Dayton)
- ✓ Any other required visitation documents you’re asked for - if you don’t have required documents ready at Dayton, you will not be permitted to enter
A complete packet doesn't guarantee approval. ODRC can deny applications if they determine your visits wouldn't positively affect the incarcerated person's attitude, behavior, adjustment, or reentry efforts. If you're unsure how to answer something, take your time and be accurate - mistakes or inconsistencies can derail the process.
After you're approved, there's one more step before you can visit: register with ViaPath. For Dayton Correctional, all visit reservations - in-person and video - go through the ViaPath portal. Registration is what unlocks scheduling.
- Go to the ViaPath portal and create an account - use your information so your registration matches your approved visitor status.
- Complete registration - follow the prompts until your ViaPath account is fully set up.
- Schedule your visit (in-person or video) - once you’re approved and registered, use ViaPath to make the reservation.
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