What to expect when you arrive at Madison Correctional: check‑in timing and security screening
Your first visit can feel stressful—mostly because you don't know what to expect at the entrance. Here's how check-in works at Madison Correctional (MaCI), and how to avoid delays at security.
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before your session starts. That buffer gives you time to handle check-in lines and clear security without rushing.
Timing matters because visits run in set sessions - you need to be checked in and cleared before yours begins. You'll also need to reserve your visit through the online portal at least one day in advance (but no more than 30 days ahead), so plan your travel around your reserved start time. Monday through Friday, Session 1 runs 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, and Session 2 runs 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. On weekends, Session 1 is 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and Session 2 is 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
Note: Visiting hours are subject to change without notice. Call the institution to verify the current visiting hours before you plan a trip.
- Empty your pockets for inspection - You’ll be asked to remove everything and turn your pockets inside out if possible.
- Clear the metal detector - You must pass the metal detector screening to be permitted entry.
- ✓ Cash
- ✓ Coins
- ✓ Debit cards
- ✓ Wallets
- ✓ Phones
- ✓ Camouflage clothing of any kind
- ✓ Earrings that aren’t basic stud or hoop style
- ✓ Earrings larger than one inch (must be removed for inspection by the Entry Officer prior to entry)
- ✓ Necklaces of any kind
- ✓ Bracelets of any kind (silicone wristbands are the exception, but they must be removed for inspection)
- ✓ Watches of any kind
- ✓ Fitbits of any kind
Have a pacemaker or joint replacement? Bring your medical card or documentation. MaCI requires it at entry, and staff will screen you with a trans-frisker instead of the standard metal detector. Good news: after your first visit, the facility keeps your documentation on file, so future check-ins go faster.
Reminder: Visiting hours can change without notice. Before you travel, verify hours by calling the institution (use the official department directory or the facility’s official information page to find the current phone number).
Practical Speedups
- ✓ Before you walk up to the entrance, empty your pockets so you’re ready to turn them inside out for inspection.
- ✓ Leave cash, coins, debit cards, your wallet, and your phone somewhere outside the compound (for example, secured with your other belongings) so you’re not stopped at the checkpoint.
- ✓ Skip anything camouflage - MaCI doesn’t allow it.
- ✓ Keep earrings simple (basic studs or hoops). If they’re larger than one inch, expect to remove them for inspection before entry.
- ✓ Don’t wear necklaces or bracelets; the only exception is a silicone wristband, which still has to come off for inspection.
- ✓ Leave watches and Fitbits at home to avoid delays.
Vending machines are available, but you can't share what you buy with the person you're visiting. Keep that in mind if you usually bring snacks for someone else.
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