How to set up your TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account (steps for Hodge Unit visitors)
Visiting someone at the Hodge Unit? Setting up your TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account is the first step. Here's how to create your account, avoid common sticking points, and know when the website is telling you to call the unit instead.
The TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler is where you'll create your visitor profile and request visits. You have to set up your own account - TDCJ staff can't do it for you. One thing to know: the system only works for residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If you live elsewhere, online scheduling isn't an option.
Before making plans, confirm the person you want to visit is actually assigned to the Hodge Unit and has visitation privileges. Visitation info gets updated regularly. If you're traveling from far away, call the unit for final confirmation before you hit the road.
- Start “Create an Account” with a valid email - Use an email address you can reliably access. You’ll be the one creating the account; TDCJ staff can’t do this step for you.
- Submit your email and watch for the registration message - The scheduler sends a 7-digit validation code by email, along with a link to continue registration.
- Open the email and finish verification right away - Follow the link and enter the 7-digit code when prompted so you can move forward.
- Choose your email carefully before you go further - Once an account is created for an email address, that account can’t be deleted and the email on the account can’t be changed.
After setting your password, you'll land on the Background Questionnaire. Don't plan to finish it later - every question must be answered before the system lets you continue. Miss something, and the scheduler treats your profile as incomplete. That can stop you from finishing setup entirely.
Warning: Once your account is created, it can't be deleted, and the email address can't be changed. Double-check you're using the right email before you finalize.
Step3 Phone Format
- ✓ Enter your phone number as XXX XXX XXXX (use spaces; no dashes)
- ✓ Re-check your visitor profile for any required fields you might have missed
- ✓ Confirm you’re building the account under the correct email address (it can’t be changed or deleted later)
Common snag: Enter your phone number as XXX XXX XXXX (spaces, no dashes). The wrong format can block you from moving forward.
Sometimes the website won't let you schedule online even after your relationship is verified. If the "Schedule Visit" button is blank or shows "Call Unit" instead, that's your signal to schedule by phone. Call the Hodge Unit directly.
That same phone call can save you a wasted trip. Confirm the inmate is assigned to Hodge Unit and has visitation privileges before you travel - visitation info changes frequently.
Troubleshooting Checklist
- ✓ You can access the email inbox you used (you’ll need the 7-digit validation code)
- ✓ You answered every Background Questionnaire question (skipping one stops account creation)
- ✓ Your phone number is entered as XXX XXX XXXX (spaces, no dashes)
- ✓ You used the right email address (the account can’t be deleted and the email can’t be changed)
If you still can't get a "Schedule Visit" button - or it shows "Call Unit" - call the Hodge Unit to schedule your visit by phone.
Find an Inmate at Hodge Unit, TX
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
