How to Schedule Your First Visit at San Francisco County Jail #2 (CJ#2)

CJ#2 requires online scheduling - you can't arrange a visit in person when you arrive. All jail and San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH) ward visits are booked through the same online system, so your first step is securing that appointment before anything else.

Timing matters. Sign-ups open at 9:00 a.m. the day before your intended visit. Check too early and the date won't be available yet. Wait too long and popular times fill up. Plan around that 9:00 a.m. window.

Time Slots

• ✓ 9:20–9:50
• ✓ 10:00–10:30
• ✓ 10:40–11:10

• ✓ 12:20–12:50
• ✓ 1:00–1:30
• ✓ 1:40–2:10

When booking, decide whether morning or afternoon works better for your schedule, then pick a specific slot you can realistically make. I'd choose a time you can arrive early for - rushing is one of the easiest ways to lose part of your visit before it even starts.

On your visit day, aim to be in the CJ#2 lobby at least 10 minutes before your scheduled time. That buffer is expected, so factor in extra time for traffic, parking, and getting settled before check-in.

The lobby has a limited number of lockers for personal items. Since space is tight, bring only what you truly need. Leave everything else in your car so you're not scrambling at the last second.

1. Try right after the window opens - Be ready to schedule after 9:00 a.m. the day before, since that’s when sign-ups begin.
2. Check multiple time options - If your first-choice slot is gone, try another morning or afternoon slot before you give up.
3. Save your confirmation details - Keep a screenshot or note of your scheduled time so you can stay organized on the day of the visit.
4. Arrive earlier than “10 minutes early” - Your goal is to be in the lobby at least 10 minutes before the appointment; arriving even earlier gives you breathing room.
5. Minimize what you bring inside - With limited lobby lockers, fewer personal items usually means a smoother check-in.