Before Your Visit: Checklist and What to Expect When You Arrive at SCI Pine Grove

Plan ahead. At SCI Pine Grove, all in-person and video visits must be scheduled at least 3 days in advance, and you can't schedule more than 60 days out. If you're trying to coordinate around work, school, or a long drive, that 3 to 60 day window is what you're working with.

Pennsylvania DOC offers both in-person and video visits. In-person visits allow up to 4 authorized visitors, while video visits allow up to 6. If you're trying to include more family members than the in-person limit allows, video may be the easier route.

Before you can schedule anything, confirm that you're on the inmate's authorized visitors list. You'll need to add your loved one to your Inmate Visitation System (IVS) account, and that only works if you're already approved. Every visitor 18 or older needs their own IVS account, so make sure each adult in your group registers separately.

Bringing children? Handle the paperwork early. A DC-313 form is required for any child participating in a visit. The good news: minors don't need their own IVS account. Instead, add them under a parent or guardian's account so scheduling and visitor details stay in one place.

What to Bring Vehicle Prep

• ✓ Bring a valid photo ID for every visitor.
• ✓ Lock your vehicle while on prison property.
• ✓ Keep your windows rolled up and closed.
• ✓ Secure equipment and loose items in or on your vehicle (for example ladders and toolboxes).
• ✓ Be prepared for your vehicle to be searched.

Expect a security screening when you arrive. Every visitor, regardless of age, goes through a search and a metal detector. If you're visiting with a child, give them a heads-up about this process so it doesn't catch them off guard.

Plan your ride and your group carefully. There is no waiting area at the facility. Anyone who isn't visiting must leave the grounds entirely. This matters for childcare and carpools, especially if someone is only tagging along to drop you off or if a child might not be able to go inside.

Visitor limits can shape your plan, especially for families. In-person visits cap at 4 authorized visitors. Video visits allow up to 6. If your group is larger, consider splitting into separate visits or using video so everyone gets to participate without someone being turned away at the door.

1. Add minors under a parent or guardian account: Children do not need their own IVS account, they should be linked to the adult who is scheduling.
2. Make a backup plan for extra people: There is no waiting area, and anyone who is not visiting must leave the grounds.
3. Time your arrival like you mean it: Since non-visitors cannot stay on-site, last-second changes (like someone deciding not to go in) can create a scramble. Have your plan set before you pull in.

If your travel plans change or you think you'll miss a scheduled visit, reach out rather than guessing. Contact your loved one's facility directly, or email Central Office at ra-crdocinmatevss@pa.gov.