Getting on the Visitors List: TDCJ’s 10-person limit, how often it can change, and what to do if you’re unsure

Each TDCJ inmate can have a maximum of 10 names on their official Visitors List. That limit is strict. Families often need to think ahead about who should be listed now versus later. If the list is full, someone has to come off before anyone new can be added.

How often the Visitors List can be changed depends on the facility type and classification. For inmates classified as institutional, changes can be requested once every six months. Timing matters here. If you miss the window, or the list is already full when you try to get added, you could be waiting months for the next chance to add or swap names.

For inmates in state jail, Intermediate Sanction Facilities (ISF), and Substance Abuse Felony Punishment (SAFP) programs, the Visitors List can be changed once every 60 days. That shorter cycle gives families more flexibility. If a name needs to be added, removed, or rotated because the list hit the 10-person cap, you're not locked into a six-month wait.

• ✓ Institutional inmates: Visitors List changes can be requested once every six months.
• ✓ State jail, ISF, and SAFP inmates: Visitors List changes can be requested once every 60 days.
• ✓ Planning takeaway: if the list is full, your next chance to be added depends on which change window applies.

1. Gather the basics - Have the inmate’s TDCJ number and the unit name ready.
2. Confirm they are at that unit - Before you travel, verify the inmate is assigned to the unit you plan to visit.
3. Confirm visitation is allowed - Make sure the inmate has visitation privileges.
4. Call the unit before you leave - Get final confirmation from the unit before traveling.

If something doesn't line up (say you believe you're approved but staff are telling you otherwise), ask about the unit's Family Liaison Officer (FLO). Each unit has a designated FLO, usually the duty warden, who helps visitors and works to resolve problems affecting visits. Other staff and approved volunteers may share general information, but the duty warden has ultimate responsibility for resolving visitation issues. That's the right person to go to for a real fix or a clear answer.

If you were removed from an inmate's Visitors List, you can appeal, but the timeline is tight. TDCJ allows a written appeal to the Director's Review Committee (DRC), and it must be submitted within 14 days of the date on the unit's written notice of removal. Send the appeal to: Director's Review Committee (DRC), PO Box 99, Huntsville, TX 77342.