How to Apply for Your First Visit at Ohio Reformatory (Step‑by‑Step)

At Ohio Reformatory, you can't just show up - every visitor needs approval first. Visitation won't happen until your application has been processed and you've received confirmation, so plan ahead and give the paperwork time to work through the system.

If the person you're visiting is still in reception, your first visit is handled as a courtesy visit. This ties into the application process, so follow the reception-specific steps and have your paperwork ready.

Forms Docs

• ✓ Visitor Application (DRC2096)
• ✓ Signed Declaration of Understanding (DRC2554)
• ✓ Signed General Visiting Instructions (DRC2274)
• ✓ A legible copy of your bona fide photo ID

For adults visiting someone in reception, bring a completed Visitor Application (DRC2096) to your first visit, along with a legible copy of your photo ID. A blurry or cropped ID copy can slow things down - double-check that everything is readable before you submit.

Submit your application by U.S. mail, email, fax, or in person - whatever works best for you. Keep a copy of everything so you can reference it if you need to follow up.

A courtesy visit is essentially a first-visit screening while someone is in reception. The visitation officer reviews your application and checks DOTS Portal screens (VSL and VSNOT) to determine whether you're connected as a victim to the incarcerated person's current or past convictions.

The courtesy visit is just the beginning. For ongoing visits, you still need full approval - and that won't happen until your application has been processed and you've been notified.

After submitting your courtesy application, wait 10–14 business days, then call the facility to check your approval status. This gives staff enough time to review your paperwork.

Once approved, register at gtlvisitme.com to book your visit. Approval gets you in the door - registration is how you actually schedule your time.

1. Turn in your completed visitor packet - For reception visits, adults submit the complete Visitor Application (DRC2096) along with the signed Declaration of Understanding (DRC2554) and signed General Visiting Instructions (DRC2274).
2. Provide your photo ID copy - Staff will expect a legible copy of your bona fide photo identification with the application.
3. Go through the courtesy-visit review - For the first reception visit, the visitation officer reviews the courtesy visit application and checks DOTS Portal screens (VSL and VSNOT) as part of that review.