Before You Go: Arrival Rules and Check-In at Ocean County Jail

Ocean County Jail only lets visitors enter 15 minutes before the scheduled start time - no earlier. Don't expect to wait inside the lobby if you show up too soon. Plan your drive and parking so you're ready to check in right when that window opens.

Everyone clears security screening before reaching the visiting area. You'll go through a metal detector and thermal scanner, and staff may search you as part of entry. No exceptions.

Sign in Info

• ✓ Your full name
• ✓ Your address
• ✓ The inmate’s name
• ✓ Your relationship to the inmate

Show up too early and you'll be told to wait outside - entry opens just 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Miss that sign-in window, and you risk losing the visit entirely. Aim to be on-site and ready to check in the moment the 15-minute window opens.

Tips Smoother Entry

• ✓ Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (this is the only item you’re allowed to enter with)
• ✓ Leave personal items behind
• ✓ Do not bring personal electronic devices into the building or visiting area

Visits happen at video visitation stations, and you're responsible for cleaning yours. Sanitize it before and after your visit using the cleaning supplies the facility provides.

1. Have your photo ID ready - you must present a valid government-issued photo ID at entry.
2. Clear out your pockets and hands before you go in - personal items and electronics aren’t allowed inside.
3. Go through screening - you’ll need to pass the metal detector and thermal scanner and be ready for a search.
4. Follow staff instructions - the quickest way through check-in is to do what the lobby officer directs during screening and entry.