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Visitation

Before Your First Visit to Larch: What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

Your first in-person visit at Larch goes a lot smoother when you handle the approval step early, bring the right ID, and show up ready for check-in and screening.

• 2 min read Verified from official sources

Before you travel, make sure you've actually been approved to visit. Applications are processed in the order they're received, and it can take up to 45 business days. That's a long window. Wait for your approval before you book time off, arrange childcare, or make the drive.

If you're 18 or older, bring a valid, current photo ID for check-in. A driver's license or state-issued ID card works, as long as it's not expired. Show up without a valid ID and you could lose your visit that day.

International visitors need to bring their passport as photo identification for check-in. It has to be the physical passport, not a photocopy or a photo on your phone.

Expect to be searched before your visit. Under DOC policy, all visitors are subject to screening before entering the visiting area. Follow directions the first time and you'll get through quickly.

Tip: Bring as little as possible and empty your pockets. Have your ID in hand when you reach the check-in point so you're not holding up the line.

Visits are first-come, first-served. If the visiting room is full, you can be turned away, even if you've already made the trip. Capacity fills up fast, so timing matters.

Plan ahead: Arrive early. Extra time gives you a much better shot at getting in before the visiting room reaches capacity.

Packing Checklist

  • ✓ A valid, current photo ID if you are 18+ (driver’s license or state ID)
  • ✓ Only the essentials you need to get through check-in, since everyone entering is subject to search
  • ✓ A plan to keep everything else out of your pockets and off your person to speed up screening

Right before you walk in, do a quick check: ID ready, pockets empty, nothing extra in your hands. Everyone gets searched, so arriving prepared and cooperating with staff keeps the line moving and gets you to your visit sooner.

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