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Before Your First Visit to Neal Unit: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
Before Your First Visit to Neal Unit: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)

Your first stop at Neal Unit is the secure perimeter - and what you bring matters. Staff can search visitors, and any vehicle on TDCJ property is fair game for a search too. Think of your car as part of the screening process, not a place to stash prohibited items. Once inside, assume your visit is being monitored. All inmate visits (except attorney-client meetings) may be electronically recorded. You can still have a meaningful conversation - just keep things appropriate for a setting where someone might be watching.

Heads up: Don’t bring paper cash or electronics. Only coins are allowed (up to $35), and cell phones and other electronic/wireless devices aren’t allowed inside the secure perimeter.

If you're 18 or older, bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Staff will check it at entry. At least one of your IDs must show your current physical address. The exception: victims of family violence certified by the attorney general for address protection.

Bringing a child? Pack ID for them just in case. If a child looks physically mature, staff may ask for proof of age - a birth certificate, DPS ID, or student ID works. Note that student IDs are only accepted for visitors 17 or younger.

Before Your First Visit to Neal Unit: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)

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  • ✓ A small wallet
  • ✓ A clear plastic bag (Ziploc®-type) or a clear change purse
  • ✓ Coins only for vending machines (no paper money), up to $35 total
  • ✓ Up to three diapers
  • ✓ Baby wipes
  • ✓ Two baby bottles (or a “sippy” cup for toddlers)
  • ✓ Pack these infant items in a clear plastic bag

Want the smoothest entry? Leave your everyday carry stuff at home - or locked away before you reach the secure perimeter. Purses, diaper bags, and briefcases aren't allowed. Plan to carry only what's permitted: a small wallet and a clear plastic bag. Cameras, strollers, and toys are also prohibited. Money trips people up too. Paper cash isn't allowed inside - coins only. Anything that creates a security concern (tobacco, lighters, matches, pagers, and electronic devices) must stay outside the secure perimeter.

Reminder: No cell phones inside the secure perimeter at Neal Unit - leave your phone in your vehicle before you enter.

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