What to Bring (and What Not to) When Visiting Lopez Unit: Visitor Checklist
Visiting someone at Lopez Unit goes much smoother when you show up with the right ID and leave prohibited items behind. This checklist helps you avoid delays, confiscated belongings, or getting turned away at the gate.
Before you pack anything, confirm the inmate is still at Lopez Unit and has visitation privileges. Then call the unit for final confirmation. Schedules change. Access gets revoked. Even an eligible inmate can't receive visitors if visitation has been canceled that day.
Note: Some inmates are restricted from having visitors age 17 or under. If the scheduling system asks about children under 17, those kids may not be allowed to join the visit.
If you’re 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Staff check ID at entry, and you won’t be admitted without it.
At least one of your IDs needs to show your current physical address. The exception: victims of family violence certified by the attorney general for address protection. Everyone else should bring an ID that matches where they live now.
Allowed Inside Perimeter
- ✓ A small wallet
- ✓ A clear plastic bag (Ziploc-type)
- ✓ A change purse
- ✓ Up to $35 in coins (no bills)
Visiting with an infant or small child? You can bring a small set of baby supplies, but keep it minimal and pack everything in a clear plastic bag. Check the infant section below for exact limits - bring more than allowed and you'll have to leave it behind.
Prohibited Items Common
- ✓ Any food items
- ✓ Paper money (bills)
- ✓ Alcoholic beverages
- ✓ Controlled substances or any drugs
- ✓ Firearms or deadly weapons
- ✓ Tobacco
- ✓ Lighters and matches
- ✓ Cell phones and smartwatches
- ✓ Laptops
- ✓ Cameras and digital recorders
- ✓ Other electronic or wireless devices
Leave purses at home. No diaper bags or strollers past the secured perimeter either. Baby supplies are allowed, but they need to fit in a clear plastic bag - not a full-size bag.
Note: Bringing contraband onto TDCJ property is a serious violation. Expect it to be confiscated, and you may lose your visit entirely.
- Pack no more than three diapers - keep it to three total.
- Add baby wipes - bring a supply, but keep it reasonable.
- Bring up to two bottles - two baby bottles, or a “sippy” cup for a toddler.
- Put everything in a clear plastic bag - baby items must be stored in a clear bag to go inside.
Skip the stroller and diaper bag. Carry only the allowed baby items in a clear plastic bag - same as any other permitted items.
Medication generally isn't allowed inside the secured perimeter. Exceptions for prescribed medications are handled case-by-case. If you need to bring something medically necessary, contact the unit ahead of time to get approval.
Expect screening on the way in. Keep your visit simple: bring only what's permitted and be ready to follow check-in procedures. Bringing kids? Double-check the inmate's visitation settings first - some inmates can't have visitors age 17 or under.
Reminder: Before you drive out, confirm the inmate is assigned to Lopez Unit and has visitation privileges. Call the unit for final confirmation.
Find an Inmate at LOPEZ UNIT
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
