estelle-visit-checklist-what-to-bring

What to Bring (and What to Leave in Your Car) When Visiting Estelle Unit

A smooth visit comes down to one thing: showing up with the right ID and only the small, permitted items. Use the sections below as your pack-and-parking-lot checklist before heading to Estelle Unit.

2 min read tdcj.texas.gov
What to Bring (and What to Leave in Your Car) When Visiting Estelle Unit

If you're 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Staff will check for a current physical address on at least one of your IDs. Certified victims of family violence with address protection through the attorney general may qualify for a limited exception to the address requirement.

Kids 17 and under don't always need ID. But if a child looks older than their age, staff may ask for proof - a birth certificate, DPS ID, or student ID works (student ID is only accepted for children 17 and younger).

Small Items

  • A small wallet - keep it simple and easy to inspect.
  • A clear plastic bag (Ziploc-type) or a change purse - using a clear bag helps speed up screening.
  • Up to $35 in coins - vending machines are available in the visitation area, but paper money isn’t allowed inside.

Leave these in your car (or at home): Food items; purses and diaper bags; cameras; toys/dolls; photographs or photo albums; paper money; weapons (including knives); illegal drugs; tobacco; lighters/matches; cell phones; pagers; laptops; digital recorders; and other electronic/wireless devices. Bring any of these, and you risk having them confiscated - or being turned away at the gate.

Infants Children

  • No more than three diapers - pack only what you’ll need for the visit.
  • Baby wipes - bring a small, reasonable supply.
  • Two baby bottles (a “sippy” cup for toddlers is included in this allowance) - keep it to two.
  • A clear plastic bag to hold all infant/toddler items - these items must be stored in a clear bag; a Ziploc-type bag works well.
  1. Set aside coins (and only coins) - bring no more than $35 total if you want vending machine money.
  2. Double-check your ID before you leave - if you’re 18+, you’ll need a current government-issued photo ID at check-in.
  3. Pack light and arrive with extra time - security goes faster when you’re only carrying permitted items and can get through screening without sorting through extras.

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