Getting Approved for Formby's Visitor List: What You Need to Know
Getting approved to visit someone at Formby State Jail comes down to two things: being on the inmate's Visitors List and bringing the right ID. Here's how the list works, what you'll need, and how to confirm you're approved before making the trip.
Each inmate at Formby can have a maximum of 10 names on their Visitors List. If it's already full, you can't be added until someone is removed. Worth coordinating with your loved one - and other family members - before you start making travel plans.
The Visitors List is the official record of who an inmate can visit with. When checking your status online, keep timing in mind: the TDCJ site updates once daily on weekdays and multiple times per day on visitation days. A status change may not show up instantly.
ID Address Requirements
- ✓ If you’re 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID for check-in.
Your ID needs to do more than prove your name and photo. At least one identification document must show a current physical address. There's an exception for victims of family violence certified by the attorney general to have address protection - but for everyone else, an ID without a current physical address can delay or prevent your visit.
Tip: Bring backup ID if your primary one doesn't clearly show your current physical address. Extra documentation helps if staff need additional verification.
- Check the TDCJ visitation portal first - it’s a quick way to confirm information before you travel, but it’s restricted to residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Time your check - the visitation information on the TDCJ site is updated once daily on weekdays and multiple times per day on visitation days, so re-check if you’re looking close to your visit date.
- Call the unit if you’re unsure you’re approved - TDCJ recommends verifying you’re an approved visitor before you travel, and the unit can confirm.
- Confirm the inmate’s status for visiting - ask whether your loved one is assigned to the unit you plan to visit and has visitation privileges so you don’t get turned away after a long drive.
Visiting hours are normally Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Even so, verify you're approved before leaving home - especially if you're traveling a long distance.
If a visit is terminated for improper conduct, you can be removed from the inmate's Visitors List. If that happens, you can submit a written appeal to the Director's Review Committee at PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342.
- ✓ Submit your written appeal to the Director’s Review Committee (DRC), PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342.
- ✓ Mail it within 14 days of the date on the written notice of removal.
- ✓ Include enough information for the DRC to identify the situation and contact you (your basic contact details and a brief, clear explanation of what you’re appealing).
Practical Tips
- ✓ Bring a current, government-issued photo ID if you’re 18 or older.
- ✓ Make sure at least one ID you bring shows your current physical address (unless you have certified address protection as a victim of family violence).
- ✓ Pack a backup form of ID so you’re not stuck if your primary ID is questioned.
- ✓ Double-check that your information matches what the facility will verify (name and address) before you travel.
Reminder: Don't rely on one source. Use the portal if you can (it's limited to U.S., Canada, and Mexico residents), and call the unit to confirm you're approved before traveling.
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