How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements
Every visitor to Lopez Unit needs their own TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account—unit staff can't create one for you. After signing up, check your email for a verification link and 7-digit validation code. Enter phone numbers in the required format (XXX XXX XXXX) and use the inmate's 8-digit TDCJ or SID number to add them to your profile. The scheduler shows visit types like Regular, Contact, and Video/Tablet. If no dates appear, the inmate may already have a visit scheduled—availability also depends on their privileges and the facility's layout. Contact visits allow one embrace and kiss at the start and end, plus hand-holding if hands stay visible on the table. Confirm the inmate's assignment and privileges before traveling. Paper money, phones, electronics, tobacco, and lighters are all prohibited inside the secure perimeter.
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Planning a visit at the Lopez Unit? The biggest question is usually simple: will you be allowed any physical contact, and how much? Here's what TDCJ allows during contact visits—and how to avoid losing your visit over a contact-rule violation.
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.
Create your own TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler account (Lopez Unit staff can’t create it for you), then check your email for the verification link and 7-digit validation code. When registering, use the (XXX XXX XXXX) phone format and the inmate’s 8-digit TDCJ or SID number to add them. Relationship Requests are sent to the unit for verification and will show as “Relation Requests Pending Approval” until approved.
The scheduler lists visit types including Regular, Contact, and Video/Tablet (which is separate from Securus Video). Not every option will be available for every inmate—availability depends on privileges, relationship status, and the unit’s layout. Remote video/tablet access varies by unit and is handled through the approved video scheduling system.
Inside the secure perimeter, allowed items include a small wallet or clear plastic bag and up to $35 in coins; visitors with infants may bring limited baby supplies (up to three diapers, wipes, and two bottles). Prohibited items include paper money, cell phones, smartwatches, laptops, cameras, digital recorders, tobacco, lighters, and other electronic or wireless devices. Confirm current allowances with the unit before you travel.
A long drive is hard enough without getting turned away at the door. Before heading to Lopez Unit, run through these five checks to make sure a visit is actually possible that day.
Getting your first visit scheduled at Lopez Unit comes down to setting up the TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler correctly. Pay close attention to your email, phone number format, and the inmate's ID number.
Getting mail right the first time saves days of delay and a lot of frustration. Use the correct envelope format, follow the publication rules, and try e‑messages when you need something faster.
