Mail, photos, messaging, and phone/call options for staying in touch.
Staying in touch with someone at Powledge Unit typically involves a mix of video visits and vendor-based communication services. There are two separate paths for video visitation. Remote kiosk video visits are scheduled through the approved vendor and limited to once per month for up to 60 minutes. Powledge also offers tablet-based video visits, which must be scheduled online through the TDCJ visitation portal following that portal's booking and access rules. Phone service, electronic messaging, and tablet features generally run through the state Inmate Technology program and third-party vendors, so you'll register and make payments through those vendors. Service availability and features can vary by unit, so check the inmate's Powledge facility page before scheduling or purchasing anything.
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
Trying to connect with someone at the Powledge Unit? Start by confirming their unit assignment, then use the right scheduling system for the type of video visit you want. This saves you from wasted trips and last-minute cancellations.
TDCJ calls non-contact visits
TDCJ contact visits allow some physical contact, but the limits are tight. Most visits are also monitored, which shapes what "privacy" actually means in the visiting area.
TDCJ changed where incoming personal mail needs to go, and sending it to the wrong address is one of the easiest ways to get your letter or photos delayed or rejected. Here's the exact Dallas address to use, plus the few exceptions that still go directly to the unit.
Sending personal mail to someone in TDCJ? The address changed when the system went digital statewide. Here's exactly where to send letters nowâand the few exceptions that still go directly to the unit.
- Call the unit to confirm the inmate is assigned there and still has visitation privileges. - Confirm the unit visitation schedule for that day and verify visitation has not been canceled. - Verify youâre an approved visitor (and that youâre on the inmateâs Visitors List, if applicable). - If you arranged a special visit or need accommodations, call to confirm the plan is in place before you leave. - Make sure you have acceptable government-issued photo ID if youâre 18 or older.
Remote kiosk video visits at Powledge Unit may be scheduled through the approved vendor and are available once per month for up to 60 minutes.
Tablet video visits at Powledge Unit must be scheduled online through the TDCJ visitation portal.
Texas units commonly offer phone calls, electronic messaging, and inmate tablets through the state Inmate Technology program and third-party vendors. Features and availability vary by unit, so confirm what Powledge allows on the inmate's facility page before registering or purchasing anything.
The Visitors List is the gatekeeper for in-person visits in TDCJ. Once you understand the 10-person limit, the change schedule, and how to confirm your status before making the drive, planning gets a lot easier.
Planning a visit? Your first step is getting on the approved Visitors List. Here's how the 10-person limit works, when changes can be made, and what to do if you're not listedâor you've been removed.
Planning a TDCJ visit gets a lot easier once you understand three things: how often visits happen, what the weekend hours look like, and how long you'll actually get in the visiting room.
