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What Photo ID Do You Need to Visit Someone at O'Daniel Unit?

Visiting the O'Daniel Unit goes much smoother when you bring the right ID. Here's what TDCJ requires—and what to do if your documents don't fit the standard checklist.

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
What Photo ID Do You Need to Visit Someone at O'Daniel Unit?

If you're 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID. TDCJ explicitly requires photo identification at the unit - a picture on your phone or a non-photo document won't cut it.

Here's a detail that catches people off guard: at least one of your ID documents must show your current physical address. The exception? If you're a victim of family violence with attorney-general certification for address protection, TDCJ waives that requirement.

Note: If you’re a victim of family violence with attorney-general certification for address protection, TDCJ can waive the “current physical address” requirement on your ID.

Kids 17 and under don't always need ID. But if staff question a child's age based on physical maturity, they may ask for proof. Acceptable options include a birth certificate, DPS ID, or student ID.

There's also an age-related restriction that can affect whether a child visits at all. Some inmates can't receive visitors 17 or under unless a Non‑Victim Child Affidavit for that child is on file in the inmate's classification folder.

If your ID raises questions, staff may ask for additional verification - things like a birth certificate, a pictured credit card, or another official ID. The practical move: bring your best government photo ID first, and pack backup documents if you think check-in might be tricky.

Note: If the main problem is that you can’t safely show your current address, TDCJ provides an exception for victims of family violence who have attorney-general-certified address protection.

Quick Checklist

  • ✓ Current government-issued photo ID (required for visitors 18+)
  • ✓ An ID document that shows your current physical address (unless you have attorney-general-certified address protection)
  • ✓ For children 17 and under: birth certificate, DPS ID, or student ID if age could be questioned
  • ✓ Call the O’Daniel Unit before you travel to confirm visitation details, since updates and changes happen frequently

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