Penmate Inmate Support Guides
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How to set up a TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account (for HighTower visitors)

Before you can schedule a visit through TDCJ's Online Visitation Scheduler, you'll need to create your own visitor account. Here's how to set it up—and where people typically get stuck.

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
How to set up a TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account (for HighTower visitors)

TDCJ staff can't create visitor accounts for you. You'll need to set one up yourself before you can request approval to visit HighTower or do anything else in the system.

Note: TDCJ staff can help update details like your name or address, but only after your visitor account already exists.

Start by entering a valid email address when you choose the option to create an account. TDCJ will send you an email with a 7-digit validation code and a link to finish registration.

Next comes the Background Questionnaire. Answer every question - the system won't let you continue until each one is complete, even if a question seems irrelevant to your situation.

After the questionnaire, you'll fill out your visitor profile. Watch the phone number format: the scheduler expects spaces, not dashes (XXX XXX XXXX). Type it with dashes and the system may reject it.

Now you'll add the inmate to your profile. Search using their TDCJ number or SID number - it must be exactly 8 digits. If it's shorter, longer, or missing a digit, the search won't work.

Once you find the right person and select your relationship, click Request Approval and confirm. This sends a Relationship Request to the inmate's unit, where TDCJ staff verify the connection before you can schedule a visit.

How to set up a TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account (for HighTower visitors)

Troubleshooting Checklist

  • ✓ Re-enter your phone number as XXX XXX XXXX (spaces, no dashes)
  • ✓ Go back and make sure every Background Questionnaire question is answered
  • ✓ Double-check the inmate’s TDCJ/SID number is exactly 8 digits

Tip: If the validation email doesn’t show up, check spam/junk and confirm you entered the correct email address. Also, Relationship Requests are verified by unit staff after you submit them, so it can take time before you’re approved to schedule.

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