How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP)

Before you can visit someone at North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP), three things need to happen: you complete a visitation application, get pre-approved, and have your name added to the resident's visitation list. Don't plan a trip until all three are done.

NDSP uses the North Dakota DOCR visitor application process. You have two options: submit the electronic visitor application online, or download the fillable/printable PDF visitor application and mail it to the facility. Going the mail route? Double-check you're sending it to the correct facility for the person you want to visit.

Using the printable visitor application (SFN 7598)? Print it, fill it out, and mail it to the facility you want to visit. The return address is listed on page 4 of the form - use that, not an old address you found somewhere else.

For NDSP, mail minor visitation request forms and visitor paperwork to: North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP), ATTN: Visiting, PO Box 5521, Bismarck, ND 58506-5521.

After you submit your application, NDSP runs background checks through the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, North Dakota Parole & Probation, and local law enforcement. This happens before you can be added to the resident's visitation list.

Your visitor application (SFN 7598) stays valid for five years. After that, you'll need to submit a new one to keep visiting.

Practical Tips

• ✓ Choose your application method: submit the electronic visitor application online, or use the fillable/printable PDF and mail it to the resident’s facility.
• ✓ If you mail SFN 7598, use the return addresses listed on page 4 and send it to the facility you wish to visit.
• ✓ If you’re submitting minor visitation request forms or related visitor paperwork for NDSP, address it to: North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP), ATTN: Visiting, PO Box 5521, Bismarck, ND 58506-5521.

Planning to bring a child? Handle that paperwork upfront. At NDSP, visitors under 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian - unless the Chief of Security grants special permission and the child's parent or legal guardian provides written consent. Mail minor visitation forms to: North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP), ATTN: Visiting, PO Box 5521, Bismarck, ND 58506-5521.

Once you've applied, the last step is waiting. Don't head to the facility until you've been pre-approved and your name is on the visitation list - showing up early usually means a wasted trip.