South Carolina DOC

Visiting someone in South Carolina DOC takes planning, but the steps are straightforward. Starting June 1, 2025, most adults with a valid South Carolina driver's license can register online. Minors and certain other visitors still need paper applications mailed to the Division of Visitation in Columbia. All visits—in-person and virtual—go through the GTL scheduler, and some guidance recommends scheduling at least 15 hours ahead. Inmates with visitation privileges can receive up to four in-person visits per month (typically one per weekend), with up to four visitors at a time and at least one adult present. Kids can visit too. Children 10 and older need a government-issued photo ID; kids 9 and under need a long-form birth certificate. Plan around restroom limits, the 48-hour cancellation rule, and the ban on phones, smartwatches, and fitness trackers.

Virtual visits in South Carolina DOC are scheduled by each institution, so availability varies—and may be restricted based on that site's COVID status. For help setting up or troubleshooting a remote visit, email VirtualVisitation@doc.sc.gov or call (803) 896-1838 and press #1. For platform technical support, call GTL Visitor Support at 1-855-208-7349. One heads-up: iPhones aren't currently compatible with the virtual-visitation system. Use a computer, tablet, or Android phone instead. Most communication services run through third-party vendors, so account setup, scheduling, billing, and support happen through the vendor portal. Before booking, confirm the person can receive remote visits and make sure your name exactly matches the approved visitor list. Many systems also require identity verification and advance scheduling.

You can add money to someone's account in South Carolina DOC through approved online vendors, kiosks, retail locations, money-transfer services, or mail—options vary, so stick with the facility's approved channel. Online, phone, and kiosk deposits usually post faster. Enter the person's full name and ID number exactly as required. ConnectNetwork automated trust fund deposits reach the facility within one business day. Mailed deposits take longer since processing starts after the vendor receives your money order or cashier's check, then typically posts the next business day. If a GTL refund is due, it's mailed to the inmate's address within 2–4 weeks. Call GTL if it hasn't arrived after 30 days.

South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) operates under statewide policies, so many rules apply across all institutions. One key rule: SCDC is tobacco-free. Tobacco products have been contraband on agency property since January 1, 2008. If you're supporting someone in custody, SCDC provides a family resource sheet pointing to community services—food assistance, housing, childcare, and public assistance contacts. When visiting, bring a valid government-issued photo ID and follow the facility's dress code and rules. Many correctional systems use third-party vendors for phone calls, tablets, kiosks, electronic messaging, video visits, and trust or prepaid accounts. Check the facility's instructions for what's available.