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Visitation

Why You Can’t Bring Your Phone (And What Else Is Banned) at NC Prisons

• 2 min read Verified from official sources

If you're visiting someone in an NCDAC prison, leave your cell phone behind. Phones are contraband in all NCDAC prison facilities, no exceptions. It doesn't matter if you plan to keep it tucked away during the visit.

  • ✓ Cellphones
  • ✓ Smartwatches
  • ✓ Cameras
  • ✓ Recording devices
  • ✓ Smart/AI glasses

Note: Visitors ages 16 and older go through a pat/frisk search and an electronic device search before entering any state prison.

These rules are enforced at the door. If you're 16 or older, you'll go through a pat/frisk search plus an electronic device search before entering. The goal is straightforward: keep contraband out and maintain safety inside the facility. That's why phones and other electronics are treated as prohibited items in NCDAC prisons.

Common Mistakes

  • ✓ Walking up to the entrance with your phone still in a pocket or bag (cell phones are contraband in all NCDAC prisons)
  • ✓ Forgetting you are wearing a smartwatch
  • ✓ Bringing a camera, even a small one that is easy to overlook
  • ✓ Carrying any kind of recording device
  • ✓ Wearing smart/AI glasses without thinking of them as an electronic item
  1. Do a full pocket check. Empty every pocket and remove your phone.
  2. Look at your wrist. Swap out any smartwatch before you leave.
  3. Scan your bag and keychain. Pull out cameras or recording devices that can hide in small compartments.
  4. Check your eyewear. Leave smart/AI glasses at home or with someone not entering.

The phone ban doesn't have to cut you off. NCDAC facilities offer both in-person and video visits, so you can stay connected without needing to bring electronics into the prison.

NCDAC uses the Getting Out Visits app for video visiting. You can schedule a video visit appointment and conduct the visit through that app.

Tips Where to Leave

  • ✓ Leave electronics at home when you can, especially your cellphone
  • ✓ If you must bring them for the drive, keep them in your vehicle and do not carry them toward the entrance
  • ✓ Hand your phone, smartwatch, camera, recording device, or smart/AI glasses to someone who is not entering
  • ✓ Travel light so it is easier to confirm you are not carrying prohibited electronics
  • ✓ Do one last check before you get out of the car: pockets, wrist, glasses, and any bag you plan to bring

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