How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Kern County Sheriff's Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Kern County Sheriff's Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Kern County Sheriff's Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Kern County Sheriff's Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Kern County Sheriff's Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Kern County Sheriff's Jail
   1415 Truxtun Ave
   Bakersfield, CA 93301
   Phone: (661) 868-6850

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   Visiting hours at Kern County Sheriff's Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (661) 868-6850 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Kern County Sheriff's Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Kern County Sheriff's Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Kern County Sheriff's Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Kern County Sheriff's Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Kern County Sheriff's Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth begins behind bars through carefully structured opportunities designed to build essential life skills. Kern County Jail typically emphasizes security and safety while creating an environment where those incarcerated can develop practical abilities and address underlying challenges. The facility often includes a range of offerings that focus on preparing individuals for successful community reintegration through hands-on learning and structured support.

Educational initiatives may furnish basic literacy instruction and academic advancement opportunities for those seeking to complete their education. Furthermore, vocational training often includes construction trades programs where participants can develop marketable skills in building and repair work. These offerings typically provide structured learning environments that emphasize both technical competency and workplace readiness skills essential for future employment.

Rehabilitation programs often address substance abuse issues and behavioral challenges through group sessions and individual counseling. Furthermore, specialized training in plumbing may offer those incarcerated the opportunity to learn valuable trade skills that translate directly to employment opportunities upon release. Animal care programs typically provide therapeutic benefits while teaching responsibility and compassion, creating meaningful connections that support personal development and emotional growth during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and peer relationships form the foundation of daily experiences for those incarcerated at Kern County Jail. Today's routine consistently revolves around maintaining these vital social bonds while navigating the structured environment of the facility. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with scheduled count times, followed by meal service and opportunities for communication with loved ones through phone calls and video visits.

Housing units generally accommodate multiple individuals in dormitory-style settings or smaller cells, depending on classification levels and available space. Furthermore, these living arrangements often foster a sense of community as residents share common areas and participate in group activities. Meals are typically served in designated dining areas at scheduled times, providing natural opportunities for social interaction and relationship building among those housed together.

The facility furnishes various programs and recreational activities that encourage positive social engagement throughout the week. Although security protocols guide all interactions, those incarcerated may participate in educational classes, religious services, and exercise periods that help maintain connections with peers who share similar interests or backgrounds. Visitation policies generally allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, while commissary privileges enable residents to purchase items that can be shared or used to maintain personal relationships. Work assignments within the facility typically provide additional structure and opportunities for meaningful interaction with both staff and fellow residents.