How to Get Approved for In‑Person Visits at NCDAC Prisons
Getting approved to visit someone in an NCDAC prison starts with a visitor application. Once you know what to submit (and what gets applications rejected), the process is much smoother.
Before you can visit in person at an NCDAC prison, your visitor application has to be completed and approved by facility staff. This is the gatekeeper step. Without approval, the prison will not allow the visit to happen.
The approved visitors list matters beyond just the front door. It's the same list used for both in-person and video visits, so getting your application accepted is what unlocks either option.
Documents
- ✓ If you are age 16 or older: attach a copy of an approved photo ID to your visitor application.
- ✓ Make sure the copy is clear and readable so staff can verify it.
- ✓ If the visitor is under age 16: attach a copy of the minor’s birth certificate to the visitor application.
- ✓ Use a clear, readable copy so it does not get kicked back for missing documentation.
One easily avoidable rejection: sending in a copied form instead of an original. If the instructions include an original form requirement, follow that exactly. Don't substitute a photocopy.
Incomplete applications are another common reason for rejection. Before you mail anything back, slow down and double-check that every section is filled out and the right documents are included for each person applying.
- ✓ Use an original application form (not a copied form).
- ✓ Fill out the application completely.
- ✓ If the applicant is 16 or older, attach a copy of an approved photo ID.
- ✓ If the applicant is under 16, attach a copy of the birth certificate.
- ✓ Recheck that every required attachment is included before you submit.
In-person visits are by appointment only. To schedule one, call or email the prison where your loved one is currently housed and request an appointment time.
Tip: Call the prison the day before your scheduled visit to confirm visitation status. It can save you a long drive if anything has changed.
If you're emailing or submitting an inquiry about a specific incarcerated person, have their information ready. NCDAC requires the offender's first name, last name, and offender ID number for any person-specific inquiry.
- Review the application for blanks: Make sure every section is filled out and signed where required.
- Check your attachments: Confirm you included the correct documents (photo ID copy for applicants 16+, birth certificate copy for minors under 16).
- Make sure you used the original form: If you submitted a copied form, redo it using an original.
- Resubmit with corrections: Send the corrected application back with the proper attachments.
- Contact the facility if you need clarity: Ask what specifically caused the disapproval so you do not repeat the same issue.
Note: Processing and next-step timelines aren't spelled out in the guidance quoted here. For timing and what to expect after a denial, contact the prison directly.
Previsit Checklist
- ✓ Confirm you have a scheduled appointment (visits are by appointment only).
- ✓ Call the prison the day before to confirm visitation status.
- ✓ Bring the right documentation for the visitor (photo ID for age 16+, birth certificate for minors under 16).
- ✓ Leave your cell phone behind. Cell phones are contraband and prohibited at all prison facilities.
NCDAC visits can happen in person or by video, but either way you generally need to be on the incarcerated person's approved visitors list. If you're not approved yet, start with the application and attachments first so you're eligible to schedule.
Any time you reach out about a specific incarcerated person, keep it consistent: use the offender's first name, last name, and offender ID number. Having that ready helps staff locate the right person and respond faster.
Find an Inmate at SCOTLAND CI
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
