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How to Schedule Your First In-Person Visit at Lawrence Correctional Center

Your first in-person visit at Lawrence Correctional Center goes much more smoothly when you handle approval and paperwork ahead of time. Here's how to schedule online, bring the right documents, and avoid common day-of issues that can cost you the visit.

• 2 min read • idoc.illinois.gov
How to Schedule Your First In-Person Visit at Lawrence Correctional Center

Before you schedule anything, confirm you're eligible to visit. At Lawrence Correctional Center, all visitors must be on the person's approved visitation list - legal visitors and government officials are the only exceptions. Not sure if you're on the list? Write a letter to the person in custody and ask them to check.

Note: The approved-visitation-list requirement does not apply to legal visitors or government officials.

Schedule your visit online through the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) SignUpGenius system. Book your time slot first, then build the rest of your visit prep around it.

If you're 18 or older, you'll need to complete a Prospective Visitor's Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) before visiting. Legal visitors and government officials are exempt. First-time visitors should expect to complete this as part of getting cleared.

  • ✓ Bring two forms of identification.
  • ✓ Make sure one ID is a current state-issued photo ID.

You'll need to provide vehicle information when you arrive, so have your license plate number and vehicle details ready.

Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled visit time. Check-in can take longer than you'd expect, especially when multiple groups show up at once.

Expect security procedures. All visitors, vehicles, and belongings are subject to search. Keep what you bring to a minimum - leave anything you don't absolutely need in the car or at home.

Important: You must submit to a body search at the Visitor Center, and anyone who is intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted entry.

How to Schedule Your First In-Person Visit at Lawrence Correctional Center

On the Day Tips

  • ✓ Have two forms of ID ready to show (one must be a current state-issued photo ID).
  • ✓ If you’re an adult visitor, make sure the Prospective Visitor’s Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) is completed as required before you visit.
  • ✓ Leave electronic devices behind (cell phones, tablets, smart watches).
  • ✓ Don’t bring food or drinks into the Visiting Room.
  • ✓ Skip purses, books, magazines, sunglasses, and personal keys.
  • ✓ If you arrive with personal items, use the small lockers available in the Visiting Center.

On visit day, assume everything - your belongings, your vehicle - can be searched. You'll go through a body search at the Visitor Center, and staff will turn you away if they believe you're intoxicated or under the influence. Keep your plans simple and focused on the visit.

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