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Want to get phone calls from someone at the Jim Rudd Unit (TDCJ)? You'll need to handle a few things first, including registration and making sure your phone number is the right type to receive calls.
To receive calls from someone at the Jim Rudd Unit, you'll need two things: the inmate's TDCJ ID number and a phone number you can register as yours. During enrollment, you'll confirm you own the number — so use one that's actually listed in your name.
Getting phone calls set up in TDCJ comes down to two things: registering your number correctly and knowing the call rules so you're not caught off guard by cutoffs, blocks, or billing changes.
Contact visits can feel intimidating the first time—you're not sure what's allowed. Here are the Jim Rudd Unit rules on physical contact, plainly explained, so you can walk in knowing what to expect.
Phones are available from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., and each call is limited to 30 minutes. All calls except those to an attorney of record may be monitored or recorded.
Yes, starting December 1, 2025, Securus will require a funded AdvanceConnect account to pay for phone calls. Right now, Securus also offers one free 60-second call per month to numbers not associated with a funded AdvanceConnect account.
A little preparation can save you a wasted trip. Use this checklist to confirm visitation is actually available, then show up with the right ID and nothing that will get you turned away.
Scheduling your first visit can feel overwhelming with all the moving parts. Take it one step at a time, though, and the TDCJ system is actually pretty straightforward. You'll know exactly what to do—even if the scheduler tells you to call the unit directly.
Scheduling a tablet video visit in TDCJ starts online. The setup is usually straightforward once you know the checkpoints that can block you. Use the steps below to create your account, complete the required questions, and get your visit on the calendar.
