What to Know Before Your First Visit to SCI Mercer
Your first visit to SCI Mercer goes a lot smoother when you know what to expect. Here's a quick prep guide so you can focus on the visit itself—not last-minute surprises.
SCI Mercer follows Pennsylvania Department of Corrections visitation rules for both in-person and video visits. Either way, you'll need to be set up ahead of time and ready to follow facility procedures when you arrive.
If you’re unsure about scheduling, approval, or what applies to your situation, start by contacting SCI Mercer directly. For system-related questions, you can also email Central Office at ra-crdocinmatevss@pa.gov.
Before Home Checklist
- ✓ Confirm you can access the Inmate Visitation System (this is how you schedule or join visits for SCI Mercer).
- ✓ Make sure your Keystone Login works, since Keystone Login is used to verify your identity in the Inmate Visitation System.
- ✓ Double-check your scheduled visit details before you leave (time, format, and any instructions shown in the system).
If something in the Inmate Visitation System doesn't look right - you can't log in, your visit details seem off, or you're stuck on a step - don't just show up and hope for the best. Contact SCI Mercer directly, or email Central Office at ra-crdocinmatevss@pa.gov for help with visitation issues.
Vehicle Prep
- ✓ Lock your vehicle while you’re on SCI Mercer property.
- ✓ Roll your windows up/closed.
- ✓ Secure any equipment on or in the vehicle, including ladders and toolboxes.
- ✓ Assume your vehicle may be searched and keep the car simple and uncluttered.
- Plan for a search - Every visitor, regardless of age, is subject to search, so don’t count on “quick entry” for kids or older family members.
- Go through the metal detector - All visitors must pass through a metal detector before entering.
- Be ready for vehicle screening - Visitor vehicles are subject to search, so keep your car in compliance and avoid bringing anything you wouldn’t want inspected.
SCI Mercer doesn't have a waiting area. Don't bring someone along who can't visit
- ✓ Confirm ahead of time who is actually going inside for the visit.
- ✓ Coordinate rides so drop-offs and pick-ups don’t require someone to wait on-site.
- ✓ If you’re traveling with a group, plan for non-visitors to separate before you enter facility property.
Note: Breaking visitation rules can get your visiting privileges suspended. If you're unsure about anything, ask SCI Mercer or email Central Office at ra-crdocinmatevss@pa.gov before your visit.
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