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mdoc-visitation-check-in-process

What Happens During the Check-In Process at MDOC Visitation Centers

Your first visit can feel overwhelming, especially when you don't know what to expect at check-in. Here's how the typical MDOC visitation-center process works—what you'll do, what ID you'll need, and what screening looks like.

• 2 min read • mdoc.ms.gov
What Happens During the Check-In Process at MDOC Visitation Centers

Arrive Parking Belongings

  • ✓ Lock personal items in your vehicle before you head to the processing center, including your cell phone, wallet, purse/handbag, change purse, and similar belongings.
  • ✓ If you bring tobacco onto prison grounds, keep it locked in your vehicle the entire time - tobacco can’t go into the visitation center, and visitation centers are non-smoking areas.

Once you're on MDOC prison grounds, assume you and your vehicle can be searched at any time. Staff have authority to check your person, vehicle, and anything you're carrying. This is another good reason to leave extra belongings locked in your car.

After parking, head to the visitation processing center to register. You'll present a valid photo ID and sign the visitor log before moving forward.

During processing, staff will stamp the top of your right hand. This is standard. Once you're registered and cleared, they'll direct you toward the visitation area.

What Happens During the Check-In Process at MDOC Visitation Centers

Screening is standard at MDOC check-in. You may be searched for contraband or asked to walk through an electronic body scanner. Staff can also search your vehicle, personal property, or anything in your possession while you're on prison grounds.

Note: If staff direct you to a frisk search or body scanner, follow their instructions so your visit can proceed.

  1. Go to the visitation processing center - this is where registration and screening happen.
  2. Be ready for inspection - anything you have with you (and your vehicle while on grounds) can be subject to search.
  3. Complete electronic screening if directed - you may be asked to walk through a body (electronic) scanner.
  4. Submit to a frisk search if requested - staff may also screen you by frisk search as part of processing.

If you're searched or questioned, stay calm and follow directions. Searches at MDOC aren't personal - they're routine and authorized for anyone on prison grounds.

Tip: Confused about what you're being asked to do? Pause and ask staff to clarify before you proceed.

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