How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at Mansfield Correctional Institution
Getting approved to visit at Mansfield Correctional Institution takes a few key steps: complete the Ohio DRC adult visiting application (DRC2096), submit a clear copy of your photo ID, get a probation/parole permission letter if that applies to you, and register with GTL VisitMe after approval so you can reserve visits.
Visiting someone in prison can feel overwhelming the first time. The good news? The approval process is straightforward once you know what's required. This guide covers the adult Visitor Application (DRC2096), the photo ID copy you need to include, extra steps for anyone on probation or parole, and what happens after approval - including GTL VisitMe registration for scheduling visits. Visiting details can vary by institution, so confirm Mansfield-specific procedures with the facility before you go.
Everyone who wants to visit must fill out the Visiting Application (DRC2096). Take your time and complete it accurately - use your full name exactly as it appears on your ID, include your current residential address, and double-check that you have the incarcerated person's name and number right. The application includes background questions. Answer everything fully and truthfully so your application doesn't get held up.
Warning: If you falsify information on the visiting application, you can be denied approval.
You'll also need to sign two documents along with the DRC2096: the Declaration of Understanding (DRC2554) and the General Visiting Instructions (DRC2274). These forms spell out the rules you're agreeing to follow as a visitor.
Your application isn't complete without a legible copy of your photo ID. Before submitting, check that the copy is clear - not blurry or cut off - and that your name and ID number are easy to read. This prevents delays from staff sending it back for corrections.
Note: You won’t be allowed to visit until your application is processed and you’re approved. When you do visit, you must register each time and present bona fide identification at entry.
Currently on probation or parole? Include a letter from your probation/parole officer granting permission to visit. Don't skip this step - without written permission, your application can be delayed or denied even if everything else is correct.
Once approved, you're added to the incarcerated person's visiting list - the list staff use to confirm who can visit. That list holds up to 15 approved adult visitors, with no more than 2 designated as "friends." Until your application is processed and approved, you won't be permitted to visit. When you do come in, you'll register for that visit and show valid identification at the entrance.
Visiting logistics aren't identical at every Ohio prison. The managing officer at each institution has discretion over details like visitor limits, visit frequency, duration, priority, and hours. If Mansfield makes a significant change to its visiting guidelines, it must be posted 30 days before taking effect.
After approval, there's one more step before you can book a visit: register with GTL VisitMe. Approval comes first, then registration. Once you're in the system as an approved visitor, GTL VisitMe is how you'll schedule your time.
Submitted everything but haven't heard back? Contact the facility to confirm your application was received and ask where it stands. Since the managing officer sets local visiting specifics (and must post major changes 30 days ahead), the facility is also the right place to confirm current procedures once you're approved.
- ✓ Call the facility and ask if your visitor application has been received.
- ✓ Confirm whether your application has been processed and approved (visitation isn’t permitted until approval is complete).
- ✓ Ask what your next step is after approval, including whether you’re ready to register and reserve visits through GTL VisitMe.
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