Before You Drive to Estes Unit: The Pre-Visit Checklist

Before you drive out, confirm your loved one is actually assigned to Estes Unit. Transfers happen. Showing up to the wrong unit is one of the easiest ways to lose a whole day. Make this your first check, even if you visited recently.

Once you've confirmed the assignment, check the current visitation schedule for the unit and make sure visits haven't been canceled. Even if someone is eligible to receive visitors, a cancellation means the visit won't happen. A quick schedule check before you leave can save you a long drive for nothing.

Call the unit for a final confirmation before you start the trip. It's the simplest way to catch last-minute changes or cancellations before you're already on the road.

Bring valid photo identification for check-in. No acceptable ID? Staff can deny the visit, even if everything else is in order. If you're bringing children or a family member who may not have a standard ID, sort that out before you travel. You don't want to be stuck trying to fix it in the parking lot.

Check your clothing before you leave home. Make sure everything complies with the unit's visitation dress code. If your outfit doesn't meet the guidelines, you can be refused entry, and changing options are usually limited once you arrive.

Expect screening when you arrive. Vehicles and visitors are subject to search, so keep your car and personal items clean and simple. The fewer extra items you bring, the smoother check-in goes.

Money Electronics

• ✓ Bring no cash except coins, and keep it to $35 or less total.

If you hit a problem on visit day (schedule confusion, questions at check-in, or someone tells you something changed), call the unit first. Getting clarification directly from staff can prevent repeat trips and help you understand what needs fixing before you try again.

1. Read your removal notice carefully: If you were removed from an inmate’s Visitors List, the notice date matters for your deadline.
2. Write your appeal to the DRC: Send a written appeal to the Director’s Review Committee (DRC), PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342.
3. Mail it within 14 days: Your appeal must be submitted within 14 days of the date on the written notice of removal.