What to Bring to Your First Visit at Lea County Correctional Facility: ID Requirements & Dress Code

Bringing someone under 18? Plan ahead. Minors must be properly identified and accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult relative. The only exception: documented proof that the minor is legally married to the incarcerated person.

The "accompanied by an adult" rule is specific - the adult must be a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult relative. Double-check that the visitor application is complete and accurate for everyone in your group. Missing details or false information can get visiting privileges denied before you even reach the door.

Not sure what ID the facility accepts or what a minor needs to bring? Ask your loved one. Facilities must give inmates written information within 24 hours of arrival, including approved identification requirements and the visitor dress code.

Lea County Correctional Facility follows the New Mexico Corrections Department's Dress Code for Visitors (CD-100201.B). The goal is straightforward: clothing must support safety, security, and sanitation. These standards apply consistently across NMCD facilities, including contract facilities.

• ✓ Wear clothing that fits the NMCD Dress Code for Visitors (CD-100201.B)
• ✓ Avoid clothing that staff may view as provocative or inappropriate for a correctional setting
• ✓ Do not wear items with gang-related messaging or drug/alcohol-related messaging
• ✓ Follow any footwear and headwear rules required by the NMCD visitor dress code

Want to double-check what's "approved" before you make the drive? Ask the person you're visiting to look at the written rules they received when they arrived. That packet includes the dress code and ID requirements - exactly the details that trip people up at the door.

Before any visit, you'll need to read and sign the Visitor Statement of Understanding (CD-100201.A). This is a standard step for all visitors.

Take the paperwork seriously. The visitor application (CD-100201.1) must be completed and renewed every two years. Omissions or false information can be enough to deny your visiting privileges. If you're filling it out for the first time, slow down and make sure every section is complete.

Practical Checklist First Visit

• ✓ Your required identification (and proper ID for any underage visitor)
• ✓ Proof you’ve completed the visitor application process (CD-100201.1), with information filled out completely and accurately
• ✓ Clothing that meets the NMCD Dress Code for Visitors (CD-100201.B)
• ✓ A plan to keep personal property minimal, since facilities control what can enter the visiting area
• ✓ Any visit-related paperwork you were instructed to bring by the facility (procedures can vary by location and security needs)

Build in extra time. Visiting days, hours, and check-in procedures vary by facility based on security needs, space, and staffing. Even when you know the rules, arriving early gives you a buffer for screening and any paperwork issues.

Turned away? Find out exactly why - ID, dress code, approval status, or missing paperwork - and contact the facility about next steps. Facilities keep visitor records updated as applications are approved or denied, so a quick follow-up can confirm your current status matches their records.

1. Confirm what was missing or flagged - Ask exactly what information, document, or rule caused the denial so you don’t repeat the same issue.
2. Correct and re-submit your visitor application if needed - The CD-100201.1 application must be renewed every two years, and omissions or falsifications can lead to denial.
3. Request that your status be updated if it’s outdated - Facilities must promptly update visitor-related records as applications, suspensions, and visits occur.