How to visit, scheduling, dress code, and visitor requirements
Start by creating your own account on the online scheduler—staff can't do it for you. You'll need to complete setup with a 7-digit email validation code, and keep in mind the email on your account can't be deleted or changed later. To add an inmate, search by their 8-digit TDCJ or SID number; your Relationship Request will show as pending until the unit approves it. Visit types include Regular, Contact, and Video/Tablet, though availability depends on the facility and the inmate's privileges. Most visits (except attorney–client) may be electronically monitored. In-person visiting runs Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m., with two-hour regular visits and normally one visit per Monday–Sunday cycle. Remote kiosk/tablet video visits may be available once per month for up to 60 minutes.
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The TDCJ Online Visitation Scheduler is your gateway to booking a visit at the Smith Unit. Get the email validation, questionnaire, and relationship request right the first time, and everything else falls into place.
Smith Unit holds visits on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. That's the full window the unit is open for visitation — you'll still need to factor in check-in time and any waiting once you arrive.
You'll need to create your own online visitor scheduler account—TDCJ staff can't do it for you. Registration requires a 7-digit validation code sent by email, and the email you use can't be deleted or changed later. Forgot your password? Use the scheduler's
Smith Unit offers Regular, Contact, and Video/Tablet visits (listed separately from some vendor video services). Not every type is available for every inmate because it can depend on facility design and the inmate’s privileges. Most visits, except attorney–client, may be electronically monitored.
Visiting cycles run Monday through Sunday, and eligible inmates normally get one visit per cycle. Regular visits last two hours and start when both the inmate and visitor(s) are present. Traveling more than 250 miles one way? The warden may approve extended visits up to four hours. Remote kiosk/tablet video visits may be available once per month for up to 60 minutes.
A few quick checks before you leave can save you hours of driving. Run through this list to make sure your visit will actually happen once you get to Smith Unit.
Sending a letter, greeting card, or photos to someone at Smith Unit? The biggest thing to know: TDCJ now routes most personal mail through a central digital processing center in Dallas.
If the Smith Unit online scheduler shows a blank "Schedule Visit" button—or one that says "Call Unit"—you can't book that visit online. Your next step: call Smith Unit directly to schedule. Even if you just want to confirm what you're seeing on screen, a quick call is the best way to verify before making the trip.
