How to Schedule Your First In-Person Visit at an IDOC Facility
Your first in-person visit gets a lot easier once you know the steps. Use this checklist to confirm the right facility, verify your eligibility, reserve a time online, and avoid getting turned away at the door.
Before scheduling anything, find out which IDOC facility houses the person you want to visit. Use the IDOC offender search tool to look them up. This matters because scheduling and visiting procedures vary by facility.
Eligibility is where first-time visitors often get tripped up. If you're 18 or older and not a legal visitor or government official, IDOC requires you to complete a Prospective Visitor's Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) before your first visit. The exception: you've already been approved through the electronic PVI process. Show up without the right approval, and you can lose your visit even if you booked a time slot.
- Write the person you want to visit - Ask them to confirm you are on their approved visitation list (include your full name as it appears on your ID so they can check accurately).
- Be clear about what you need confirmed - A simple line like, “Can you please confirm whether I’m on your approved visitation list for in-person visits?” is enough.
- Do not rely on calling the facility for this - IDOC staff cannot verify by phone whether you are on someone’s approved visitor list, so a letter to the person in custody is the correct way to check.
IDOC handles in-person visit scheduling through SignUpGenius. Once you've confirmed the correct facility and verified your eligibility, reserve an available time slot on the IDOC SignUpGenius visit scheduling page.
Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled visit time. That buffer covers check-in and normal entry procedures. Cutting it too close can get you turned away.
Note: If the facility is on lockdown, visiting restrictions can change. Before you travel (especially a long drive), call the facility or check the IDOC All Facilities listing for special restrictions tied to lockdown status.
Avoid Denials IDs Pvi List
- ✓ Complete the Prospective Visitor’s Interview (PVI) form (DOC 0148) before your first visit (unless you have prior approval through the electronic PVI process).
- ✓ Bring current photo identification and documentation that includes your date of birth.
- ✓ Write the person you plan to visit to confirm you are on their approved visitation list (the facility cannot confirm this for you by phone).
Adult visitors need current photo ID. Acceptable options include a driver's license, state identification card, or documentation of non-US citizenship (current passport, Visa, or Matricula). Your ID must also show your date of birth, so double-check it before you leave home.
Find an Inmate at Murphysboro Re-Entry Life Skills, IL
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
