What to Bring (and What to Leave Home) for Your Ross Correctional Visit
A smooth visit at Ross Correctional comes down to two things: having the right ID and showing up without anything that'll get stopped at the door. Pack light, clear the metal detector faster, and avoid a wasted trip.
Bring a current, government-issued photo ID. Ross Correctional accepts a Driver's License, State ID, or Military ID. No valid ID? No visit. Keep it somewhere easy to grab before you walk in.
Bringing a child takes extra planning. You'll need to complete a Minor Visitor Application (DRC2238), have the custodial parent or legal guardian sign it, and get approval before the child's first visit. Bring a birth certificate to verify the child's identity, plus any change-of-custody documents if applicable.
Reminder: You also need to reserve your visit online. Reservations must be made at least seven days ahead and no more than 30 days before the visit.
Leave all electronics behind. Cell phones, smart watches, pagers - none of them are allowed inside. Bringing them to the entrance is one of the fastest ways to delay or derail your check-in.
- ✓ Secure prohibited items (like cell phones, electronic devices, and any keys other than your vehicle key) in your vehicle before you enter.
- ✓ If you’re arriving by public transportation, use the lockers provided to store items you can’t take inside.
- ✓ Leave purses, handbags, backpacks, and similar carry items at home or locked in your car - these aren’t allowed during visits.
Dress with the metal detector in mind. Hairpins, underwire bras, boots with steel shanks, clothing with lots of zippers, and heavy jewelry all slow things down. Skip the metal-heavy accessories and you'll clear security faster.
Medical note: If a medical impairment keeps you from clearing the metal detector, bring a medical card or documentation from your physician each time you visit explaining why you can’t clear it.
Keep clothing simple and conservative. Skirts, dresses, skorts, shorts, and culottes must have hems at or below mid-knee. Nothing see-through. Undergarments are required and need to stay covered - if they're visible, you'll be turned away.
Your footwear matters at screening. Certain boots and shoes trigger the metal detector. Go with something simple if you can - sneakers or flats without metal components work best.
Planning to grab snacks or drinks? Bring a debit or credit card. Vending machines are cashless - no bills or coins accepted inside.
Once you buy food, eat it then. Everything purchased must go on a plate immediately - you can't save it for later.
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