What to bring (and what not to bring) when visiting someone at a Louisiana DPS&C facility — IDs, prohibited items, and infant supplies
A little prep goes a long way. Here's a practical packing guide based on Louisiana DPS&C visitation rules—what you must bring, what to leave behind, and what's allowed if you're bringing a baby.
Visitation at Louisiana DPS&C facilities is a privilege - not a right. It can be restricted, denied, or suspended if either the imprisoned person or the visitor breaks the rules. If you're unsure about eligibility, item limits, or anything facility-specific, ask for a copy of Department Regulation OP-C-9. That document has the exact rules that apply to your visit.
If you're 18 or older, bring a photo ID. Every time. Staff check identification at the door - a photo on your phone won't work, and neither will
- ✓ Valid driver’s license (from your state of residence)
- ✓ Valid state photo identification card (from your state of residence)
- ✓ Valid military photo identification card (active duty only)
- ✓ Valid passport
Prohibited Items
- ✓ Controlled substances
- ✓ Alcoholic beverages
- ✓ Marijuana
- ✓ Tobacco and tobacco-related items
- ✓ Cameras
- ✓ Video recording equipment
- ✓ Audio recording equipment
- ✓ Cell phones
- ✓ Pagers
- ✓ Portable memory chips
- ✓ Batteries
- ✓ Chargers
- ✓ Other telecommunications hardware
Infant Items
- ✓ Up to four diapers
- ✓ Two jars of vacuum-sealed baby food
- ✓ Two plastic bottles of milk or juice
- ✓ One change of clothing
- ✓ One baby blanket (no larger than 48" x 48")
Pack infant items carefully: everything except the baby blanket must be stored together in a single clear plastic container (for example, a gallon-size zip-lock bag). Expect screening - these items are subject to search, so keep it simple and bring only what’s allowed.
If you rely on an electronic device for accessibility, plan ahead. DPS&C rules generally prohibit cell phones, cameras, recording devices, and similar electronics in the visiting area. Breaking these rules can get your visit denied. Contact the facility before you go and ask about accommodations - request a copy of OP-C-9 if you want the specifics in writing.
- Confirm you’re eligible to visit - Visitation is a privilege, and visits can be restricted, denied, or suspended if rules aren’t followed.
- Request OP-C-9 from the facility - It’s the Department regulation that lays out the specific visitation rules that govern visits.
- Pack to the rules, not your best guess - If something is prohibited (especially electronics, tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, or controlled substances), leave it at home or secured in your vehicle so you don’t risk being turned away.
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