What to Expect When You Arrive: Madison's Check-In Process and Timing
Your first visit can feel stressful, mostly because you don't know how long check-in will take. Madison Correctional's process is straightforward, but it moves faster when you arrive early and come ready for screening.
Plan to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before your visiting session starts. That buffer gives you time for the full check-in routine: inspection, security screening, and any unexpected hiccups. If there's a line or you need to adjust something (like items in your pockets), arriving early means you won't lose part of your visit.
Note: Madison Correctional requires an online reservation for in-person visits. Make it at least 1 day ahead of time, and no more than 30 days in advance.
You'll go through a metal detector at entry. If something sets it off, you'll need to adjust what you're wearing or carrying and try again. This can slow things down, so dress simply and leave bulky jewelry at home.
Before screening, you'll empty your pockets for inspection and turn them inside out if possible. Madison Correctional doesn't allow cash, coins, debit cards, wallets, or phones into the compound. If you arrive with any of these, you'll need to take them back to your car before you can proceed.
- ✓ No camouflage clothing of any kind
- ✓ No necklaces of any kind
- ✓ No bracelets of any kind (silicone wristbands are the exception, but they must be removed for inspection before entry)
- ✓ No watches of any kind
- ✓ No fit bits of any kind
- ✓ Earrings must be basic stud or hoop style. If they are larger than 1 inch, remove them so the Entry Officer can inspect them before entry
Have a joint replacement or pacemaker? Bring your medical card or documentation. Staff will use a trans-frisker for your screening instead of the standard metal detector. The facility keeps your medical documentation on file, so future visits go more smoothly.
Most delays happen at the screening point. Common culprits: items still in your pockets, prohibited belongings like cash or your phone, or setting off the metal detector. Each of these means extra steps before staff can let you through.
- ✓ Empty your pockets before you reach the entry area, and be ready to turn pockets inside out if possible
- ✓ Do not bring cash, coins, debit cards, wallets, or phones into the compound
- ✓ Skip camouflage clothing
- ✓ Do not wear necklaces, watches, or fit bits
- ✓ If you are wearing silicone wristbands, be ready to remove them for inspection before entry
- ✓ Wear only basic stud or hoop earrings. If they are larger than 1 inch, remove them for inspection before entry
Before you travel, call the institution to verify visiting hours. Madison Correctional notes that hours are subject to change without notice. A quick call can save you a wasted trip.
Note: If you need to cancel or change a visit, do it at least 2 days in advance.
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