What to Bring (and Not Bring) When Visiting Pam Lychner State Jail — ID and allowed items checklist
Visiting someone at Pam Lychner State Jail goes smoother when you show up with the right ID and only items they allow past the secured perimeter. Use the checklists below to avoid delays at check-in.
If you’re 18 or older, you must present a current, government-issued photo ID at check-in. If you don’t have it with you (or it isn’t current), you can be turned away before the visit even starts.
Your ID also needs to show your address. At least one form of identification must display a current physical address. The exception: victims of family violence who have been certified by the attorney general for address protection.
Allowed Items
- ✓ A small wallet
- ✓ A clear plastic bag (Ziploc®-type)
- ✓ A change purse
You can bring up to $35 in coins for the vending machines. Paper money isn't allowed inside the secured perimeter, so coins are your only option if you want to grab snacks during the visit.
- ✓ No more than three diapers
- ✓ A supply of baby wipes
- ✓ Two baby bottles (or a sippy cup for toddlers)
- ✓ Store these infant items in a clear plastic bag
Leave snacks and drinks in the car. Food items aren’t allowed inside the secured perimeter, even if you’re bringing them “just for the kids” or planning to eat after the visit.
Leave your purse, diaper bag, or briefcase at home. These items are prohibited inside the secured perimeter. Visiting with an infant? Keep it simple - use a clear plastic bag for the limited baby items that are allowed.
Go in without your electronics. Cell phones, pagers, laptops, digital recorders, and other electronic or wireless devices aren't allowed inside the secured perimeter. Cameras are also prohibited, along with photographs and photo albums - so don't plan on bringing pictures to show during the visit.
Weapons and contraband will stop your visit fast. Knives, drugs, tobacco, lighters, and matches are all prohibited inside the secured perimeter, so double-check your pockets, bags, and vehicle before you head in.
Your vehicle can be searched once you're on TDCJ property. The best way to avoid problems? Assume anything visible or unsecured could be questioned. Keep your car clean and locked-down before you head in.
- ✓ Secure and lock all vehicle doors, windows, and the trunk
- ✓ If you drive a truck, keep the bed free of garden tools, clothes, or anything that could be used as a weapon or aid in an escape
- ✓ Secure any tools that are in the truck bed
Quick Checklist
- ✓ Current government-issued photo ID (required if you’re 18+)
- ✓ At least one ID document that shows a current physical address (family-violence address-protection exception applies if certified)
- ✓ Small wallet, clear plastic bag (Ziploc®-type), or change purse
- ✓ Up to $35 in coins for vending machines (no paper money)
- ✓ If bringing an infant: no more than three diapers, baby wipes, and two bottles/sippy cup - stored in a clear plastic bag
- ✓ Leave at home/in the car: food items, purses/diaper bags/briefcases, cell phones and other electronic/wireless devices, cameras, photographs, and photograph albums
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