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What to Expect During Check-In at Mountain View: Pat Searches and Entry Rules

First-time visits can feel stressful when you don't know what check-in looks like. At Mountain View, expect a pat/frisk search and an electronic-device screening for most adult visitors, plus strict rules about what electronics can come inside.

• 2 min read Verified from official sources

Check-in searches at Mountain View exist to keep contraband out of the facility. If you're 16 or older, you'll go through a pat/frisk search before entry, along with screening by an electronic device. One of the most common reasons visitors get delayed or turned away? Bringing prohibited electronics. Cell phones and other recording-capable devices count as contraband. Your safest bet is to show up with as little as possible and leave restricted items locked in your car.

Pat/frisk searches follow specific staffing rules. Male officers only pat/frisk male employees and visitors. Female officers may pat/frisk either male or female employees and visitors. You won't be asked to place your hands against a partition during the search.

Electronics and Contraband List

  • ✓ Cell phones
  • ✓ Smartwatches
  • ✓ Cameras
  • ✓ Recording devices
  • ✓ Smart/AI glasses

Anyone 16 or older will be screened by an electronic device before entering. Leave prohibited electronics at home or locked in your car. Trying to bring them to the entrance only slows you down.

Warning: If you refuse any part of the search process, you will be denied entrance to the facility.

  1. Attach the right documents to the visitation application: If you are 16 or older, attach a copy of one approved photo ID. If the visitor is under 16, attach a copy of their birth certificate.
  2. Leave prohibited electronics outside: Do not bring items like phones, smartwatches, cameras, recording devices, or smart/AI glasses inside. They are considered contraband.
  3. Expect both types of screening if you are 16+: You will go through a pat/frisk search and a search by electronic device before entry.
  4. Plan to cooperate with the full process: Refusing any part of the search procedures means you will not be allowed in.

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