Virtual Visits for Ridgeland Inmates: Setup, Costs, Device Tips, and Rules
Virtual visits make staying connected easier, but the setup has a few rules that can trip you up. Here's how virtual visitation works at Ridgeland Correctional Institution (SCDC)—including account setup, scheduling, costs, device tips, and what to do if something goes wrong.
You must already be on the inmate's approved visitation list to request a virtual visit. Once approved, you can schedule through the GTL system - but everyone who plans to participate needs their own account, even if you'll be sitting together during the call. When creating your account, use your legal name exactly as it appears on the approved list. Nicknames can cause approval or check-in problems, so match the spelling and format precisely.
Start at scdoc.gtlvisitme.com/app to create your account. Once you're set up, follow the on-screen prompts to request a virtual visit time - as long as you're on the inmate's approved list.
No last-minute bookings here. You need to schedule at least three days ahead, and you can't book more than seven days in advance.
Need to change your plans? You can modify a scheduled visit up to two days beforehand. Cancellations must happen at least one day before the visit.
Visits run 50 minutes and start on the hour. Log in a few minutes early so you're not scrambling when your start time hits.
A 50-minute virtual visit costs a flat $10. You're charged when the visit begins - no partial refunds if it ends early for any reason.
SCDC says virtual visits work on computers, tablets, and Android phones. Some SCDC materials also mention Apple products - iPhones, iPads, and Macs - so you may see conflicting guidance depending on where you look.
Device compatibility heads-up: One SCDC source says iPhones work; another says they don't. Test your device before your scheduled time and have a backup ready in case your phone won't connect.
- Test your equipment ahead of time - Use the same device, camera, microphone, and internet connection you’ll use on visit day, and don’t wait until the scheduled start time.
- Call for tech support if you can’t connect - For technical trouble with the GTL system, contact GTL Visitor Support at 1-855-208-7349.
Up to four approved visitors can join a virtual visit. Approved minor children count toward that limit.
Rules Monitoring and Termination
- ✓ Sexual behavior or anything sexual in nature
- ✓ Any display of nudity
- ✓ Inappropriate attire
- ✓ Displaying or engaging with gang paraphernalia
- ✓ Allowing an unexpected unauthorized person to appear during the visit
- ✓ Use or display of drugs/alcohol, weapons, or related items
- ✓ Joining the visit from prohibited locations such as bedrooms or bathrooms (and similar venues)
All virtual visits are recorded and may be reviewed. Inappropriate behavior can end the visit immediately.
Inmates who violate visitation rules face disciplinary action under SCDC Policy OP-22.14. Visitors aren't off the hook either - prohibited conduct can get your virtual visitation privileges suspended or terminated.
For visitation questions - including application issues or name/list problems - email visitation@doc.sc.gov or call the Visitation Inquiry Line at 803-896-1838 (press 1). For technical problems during setup or connection, contact GTL Visitor Support at 1-855-208-7349.
Need help with SCDC's virtual visitation process - like getting started or sorting out visitation-list details? Use the SCDC contacts above. Account setup and scheduling happen through scdoc.gtlvisitme.com/app.
Find an Inmate at Ridgeland Corr Inst, SC
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.