How to Get Approved to Visit Someone at North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP)
Visiting someone at NDSP starts with getting approved. Once you know which application to use and what the department checks, the process is straightforward.
You can't just show up at North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP) and expect to visit. You need to complete a visitation application, get pre-approved, and be placed on the resident's visitation list first. If you're not on that list, you'll be turned away at the door.
ND DOCR offers two ways to apply: submit an electronic visitor application online, or fill out the printable Visitor Application (SFN 7598) and mail it in. Treat the application like an official record. The information you provide can be used to check Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal history records, and those checks may lead to denied or restricted visitation privileges. Once approved, the SFN 7598 visitor application stays valid for five years. After that, you'll need to submit a new one to keep visiting.
- ✓ Fill out the application accurately and truthfully. False information can lead to a 90-day wait before you are allowed to reapply.
- ✓ Provide the information requested so DOCR can run the required background checks (including FBI criminal history records).
- ✓ If you are applying for minors, make sure the required parent or legal guardian details and consents are handled as required for that child’s situation.
Minors (under 18): Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian to visit. Other arrangements require special permission from the Chief of Security and written consent from the child's parent or legal guardian.
If you use the printable SFN 7598, don't try to drop it off in person. Printed visitor applications must be mailed to the facility where the resident is located. For NDSP, mail your application to: North Dakota State Penitentiary (NDSP) ATTN: Visiting PO Box 5521 Bismarck, ND 58506-5521
After the facility receives your application, processing can take up to 15 business days. Factor that into your plans, especially if you're hoping to visit around a holiday or after a transfer. Don't assume you're approved just because you submitted the form. Wait until the resident confirms you're on the visitation list before making the trip.
ND DOCR runs background checks on all visitor applicants. Your name goes through the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, North Dakota Parole and Probation, and local law enforcement. The application also authorizes DOCR to check FBI criminal history records. Results from these checks can be used to deny or restrict your visitation privileges.
- ✓ Open criminal charges
- ✓ An active warrant for your arrest
- ✓ False information on the application (can also trigger a 90-day reapplication block)
False information on your application can block you from reapplying for 90 days. If you made an honest mistake, fix it before you submit. A small error now could mean months without visits. Once approved, your Visitor Application (SFN 7598) stays valid for five years. When that period ends, you'll need to submit a new application to continue visiting.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Apply early and plan for up to 15 business days of processing time after the facility receives your application.
- ✓ Make sure you complete the application fully and truthfully. False information can lead to a 90-day wait before you can reapply.
- ✓ Remember that approval is not complete until you are pre-approved and placed on the resident’s visitation list.
- ✓ If you are bringing a visitor under 18, follow the parent/legal guardian accompaniment rule, and get Chief of Security approval plus written parental/legal guardian consent if your situation needs special permission.
Reminder: Processing takes up to 15 business days after the facility receives your application. Hold off on making visit plans until the resident confirms you're approved and on the list.
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