What to Expect When You Arrive: Pat‑Downs, Metal Detectors, and Searches at NC Prisons
Walking into a prison for a visit can feel stressful, especially the first time. The good news: the screening process is predictable once you know the order. You'll check in, walk through a metal detector, and (for many visitors) go through an additional search before heading inside.
Entrance screening is standard at North Carolina state prisons. Every visitor must pass through a metal detector and clear it before entering. The reason is simple: reduce contraband and keep the facility safe.
Prison staff conduct these searches using the least intrusive methods that still meet safety requirements. If you arrive expecting something similar to airport-style screening, you'll be in the right mindset.
- Plan on an appointment-only visit: visits to offenders are by appointment only.
- Schedule with the prison where the person is housed: call or email the prison to set the appointment.
- Confirm the day before: call the prison the day before your scheduled visit to confirm the facility’s visitation status.
- Bring the right documentation for the visitor application (age 16+): each applicant age 16 and older must choose one approved picture ID and attach a copy to the visitation application.
- Bring the right documentation for kids on the application (under 16): minors under age 16 must have a copy of their birth certificate attached to the visitation application.
- Check in with staff: follow directions at the entrance and be ready to do each screening step in order.
- Clear the metal detector: all visitors must pass through, and clear, a metal detector search before entering.
- Complete the electronic device screening (age 16+): visitors aged 16 and older are subject to a search by electronic device prior to entering.
- Complete the pat/frisk (age 16+): visitors aged 16 and older are subject to a pat/frisk search prior to entering.
If you're 16 or older, expect a pat/frisk before going in. Staff use the least intrusive means possible, but you'll still need to cooperate and follow instructions closely. One specific rule to know: in North Carolina, male officers will only pat/frisk search male employees and visitors.
Note: If you have concerns about the search process, call the prison before your visit and ask what to expect at the entrance. It's much easier to sort out questions ahead of time than at the door.
Leave your cell phone in the car. In North Carolina prisons, cell phones are considered contraband and are prohibited from all prison facilities. Showing up with one can end your visit before it starts.
Refusing to complete the entrance screening will also get you turned away. If you're not willing to go through the required steps, staff can deny you entry.
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- ✓ Schedule your visit in advance. Visits are by appointment only.
- ✓ Call or email the prison where the person is housed to set the appointment.
- ✓ Call the day before your scheduled visit to confirm the facility’s visitation status.
- ✓ If you are 16 or older, choose one approved picture ID and attach a copy to the visitation application.
- ✓ If a child under 16 will be on the application, attach a copy of their birth certificate to the visitation application.
- ✓ Leave your cell phone at home or secured in your vehicle. Cell phones are prohibited and treated as contraband.
- ✓ Wear simple, non-metal-heavy items so you can clear the metal detector without delays.
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