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What to Expect on Your First Visit to Fulton Reception & Diagnostic Center: Arrival, Check-In, and Security

Your first visit to Fulton Reception & Diagnostic Center (FRDC) goes smoother when you know the timing, ID rules, and what security screening looks like. Here's what to expect from arrival through check-in.

• 2 min read • doc.mo.gov
What to Expect on Your First Visit to Fulton Reception & Diagnostic Center: Arrival, Check-In, and Security

FRDC visits run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with two sessions each day: 9:30am–1:30pm and 2:30pm–6:30pm. Pick the session that works for you and plan your drive around that start time. FRDC controls when you can enter the grounds, and admission is handled in the order people arrive.

S2

  • ✓ Arrive no earlier than 30 minutes before visiting starts.
  • ✓ Expect entry to be first-come, first-served.
  • ✓ Don’t leave anyone (or any pet) waiting in the car on institutional grounds.
What to Expect on Your First Visit to Fulton Reception & Diagnostic Center: Arrival, Check-In, and Security

Check-in starts with staff confirming your identity, so bring the right photo ID. Adults need a valid photo ID - a current driver's license or Department of Revenue ID card works. Bringing a teen? The rules are more specific. Visitors ages 13–18 can use a current school photo ID that includes their name, or a valid federal or state government-issued ID. Double-check that whatever ID you're bringing is current and has a clear photo and name - it'll save you a wasted trip.

Note: Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an authorized adult visitor unless they’re married to the offender.

Once you enter prison grounds, expect security screening. At FRDC, you, your packages, your children, and your vehicle are all subject to search. You'll also pass through a metal detector.

You may encounter additional screening equipment used across Missouri DOC facilities - things like the Intercept full-body scanner, walk-through and hand-held metal detectors, and X-ray baggage scanners. It's all designed to screen visitors and keep prohibited items out.

  1. Assume you’ll be scanned if you’re 18+ - anyone 18 or older is subject to a full-body scan unless they have an approved exception.
  2. Know what qualifies for an exception - approved exceptions can include a verified medical condition or pregnancy.
  3. Bring what you need to support the exception - if you’re requesting an exception, come prepared with documentation that supports the medical condition or pregnancy so staff can review it.

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