Before Your First Visit to FMC Devens: Check‑In, Searches, and What to Bring
Your first visit to FMC Devens goes smoother when you know what to expect at check-in and security. Here's how to prepare—and what to leave in the car.
Call FMC Devens before you make the trip. Visiting access can be denied or restricted, and it's much easier to sort that out by phone than at the front desk after a long drive.
Stepping onto FMC Devens grounds - or even attempting to enter - counts as consent to a search under Bureau of Prisons policy (28 C.F.R. Part 511). Staff can screen you and your belongings during entry. Refuse the search, and you won't get in.
Tip: If anything about the search process or paperwork is unclear, ask before you sign. Refusing a search means you'll be turned away.
ID Docs
- ✓ A valid, government-issued photo ID (bring the one you plan to present at check-in)
- ✓ Any visitor paperwork or instructions the facility told you to bring (if you were given forms or a confirmation)
- ✓ Any documentation you may need to support what you’re carrying (for example, medication information, if applicable)
Staff will verify your identity and screen you along with anything you bring. Check-in isn't just a quick sign-in - it's a security screening. If you won't comply, you can be turned away.
Prohibited Medications
- ✓ Weapons
- ✓ Explosives
- ✓ Drugs
- ✓ Cameras
- ✓ Recording equipment
- ✓ Telephones
- ✓ Radios
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Other electronic devices
Bringing medication? You must declare it on the Notification to Visitor form. Staff will direct you to leave it at the entry area - don't expect to carry it with you during the visit.
Note: Do a quick pocket-and-bag check before you arrive. If you have medication, be ready to list it on the form and leave it at the entry area.
Dress conservatively. Provocative or revealing clothing can get your visit denied - even if everything else checks out.
Keep in mind: Staff control entry for safety and security. Refusing a search or showing up in clothing that doesn't meet expectations can end your visit before it starts.
- Ask what caused the denial - Calmly request the specific reason (for example, refusal to comply with a search or another entry requirement).
- Fix what you can immediately - If it’s something practical (like an item you can remove or secure), follow staff direction and try again if allowed.
- Call ahead before you return - Contact the facility to confirm what you need to do differently so you don’t make a second wasted trip.
Find an Inmate at FMC Devens
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
