Bringing Children to Visit at Rhode Island DOC: Documents and Supervision Requirements
Bringing kids to visit at RIDOC is allowed, but you'll need to meet specific consent, ID, and supervision requirements. Here's how to show up prepared so you don't get turned away at the front desk.
Minors can visit at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, but they need to show proof of parental or guardian consent. If the child isn't coming with their parent or guardian, you'll need written permission from a parent or guardian for that visit.
Written permission alone isn't enough. An adult must accompany the child at all times, from check-in through the end of the visit.
If your child is visiting without a parent or guardian, bring a copy of the child's birth certificate. RIDOC accepts birth certificates as ID for visitors under 18, so having one ready can speed up check-in.
- ✓ Be ready to show proper photo ID if staff request it.
- ✓ Acceptable examples of proper photo ID include: a valid driver’s license, valid military ID, a passport, or valid IDs issued by Rhode Island’s Departments of Transportation, Elderly Affairs, or Administration (Division of Motor Vehicles).
- ✓ Do not rely on a Social Security card as ID. RIDOC does not accept it as a proper form of identification.
- ✓ Do not rely on a Welfare ID as ID. RIDOC does not accept it as a proper form of identification.
Make sure an adult can stay with the child the entire visit. The rule is simple: minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times, even when they have written permission from a parent or guardian.
Reminder: Adult supervision does not replace consent. Minors still need to demonstrate parental or guardian consent to visit.
Contact rules apply during visits, including when children are involved. RIDOC limits kissing and embracing to brief contact at the start and end of the visit. During the visit, inmates' and visitors' hands must stay on or above the table. You'll want to prep kids ahead of time about staying seated and keeping their hands visible.
Heads up: If you bring a child, you're responsible for helping them follow the rules. That means hands on or above the table, and saving hugs for the beginning and end of the visit.
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- ✓ Arrive early, since check-in with kids often takes longer than you think.
- ✓ Tell your child what the room will be like (staff directions, staying seated, and using an inside voice).
- ✓ Pack a quiet, screen-free activity for the wait and the ride home (a small coloring book, a short chapter book).
- ✓ Dress your child in simple, comfortable clothing that is easy to take on and off if screening requires it.
- ✓ Keep expectations realistic. Visits can feel long for younger kids, so plan a calm decompression afterward (snack in the car, quiet time at home).
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