How to Visit Rhode Island DOC (RI)

Each RIDOC facility sets its own visitation schedule. The warden decides visiting days, times, location, visit length, weekly visit limits, and how many visitors can attend at once. Because these details differ by facility and can change, verify the current requirements before every visit. RIDOC can also cancel or modify visits when necessary, so double-check close to the day you plan to go.

RIDOC sets minimum standards that most facilities must meet. For inmates not on Administrative Restricted Status, each facility must offer at least three visiting periods per week. Each period lasts at least 1½ hours, so plan your day accordingly.

When you arrive, check the posted rules in the visiting waiting room. RIDOC requires the Visits policy, Visitor Dress Code, and facility-specific procedures to be displayed in both English and Spanish. If anything is unclear, those posted documents show the current expectations for that location.

Steps to Follow

• ✓ Confirm the visiting schedule for the specific RIDOC facility you’re going to (the warden sets the days, times, location, visit length, weekly visit limits, and how many visitors are allowed).
• ✓ Verify visit requirements before each trip, since each facility’s schedule is different.
• ✓ Expect that visits can be canceled or amended by RIDOC if needed, and re-check close to your visit day.
• ✓ When you arrive, read the posted Visits policy, Visitor Dress Code, and facility-specific procedures (posted in English and Spanish in the visiting waiting room).

1. Plan for a full visiting period - facility visiting periods must be at least 1½ hours, so give yourself enough time to complete your visit.
2. Follow all visiting rules closely - visits are a privilege, and RIDOC administration can deny, suspend, or revoke visits for violations or security concerns.

Wondering how often you can visit? The baseline is at least three visiting periods per week, as long as the inmate is not on Administrative Restricted Status. Exact days, times, and limits still depend on the facility's schedule.

What to Verify

• ✓ Which days and times your specific RIDOC facility is currently offering visits (wardens set the schedule).
• ✓ Where visits take place at that facility and any facility-specific procedures you’re expected to follow.
• ✓ The visit length, how many weekly visits are allowed, and how many visitors can attend at one time.
• ✓ Whether RIDOC has canceled or amended visits for the day you plan to go.

If your loved one qualifies for standard visiting, the facility should offer at least three visiting periods per week, each lasting at least 1½ hours. The main exception is Administrative Restricted Status. Confirm whether that applies before planning around the minimums.