What to Bring (and What to Expect) for Your First Visit to Stafford Creek
Your first visit to Stafford Creek goes smoothly when you arrive with the right ID, your visitor application already approved, and a clear sense of what to expect at security.
Anyone 18 or older needs a valid, current government-issued photo ID to enter. Visiting from outside the U.S.? Bring your passport - it's required for international visitors.
- ✓ Driver’s license (valid and current)
- ✓ State-issued identification card (valid and current)
- ✓ Passport (required for international visitors)
Searches are part of the entry process. DOC policy allows staff to search all visitors, belongings, vehicles, and any bags or containers brought onto facility grounds. Keep things simple: bring as little as possible and follow directions.
Note: If you refuse a search, DOC says your visit privileges will be suspended for 90 days the first time. A second refusal can terminate all visit privileges.
Prep Checklist
- ✓ Bring a valid, current government-issued photo ID (passport if you’re an international visitor)
- ✓ Submit the required Electronic Visit Application (DOC only accepts electronic applications for prison visits)
- ✓ Start the application process early so you’re not scrambling close to the day you want to visit
Haven't applied yet? Build in time. Applications are processed in the order received and can take up to 45 business days. On visiting day, know that the visit room has limits. It's first-come, first-served - if the room fills up, you could be turned away even after a long drive. Check Stafford Creek's facility-specific visitor guidelines, visiting hours, and event calendar before you leave home so a schedule change doesn't catch you off guard.
Tip: If you’re feeling sick, consider rescheduling so you don’t risk being turned away after you’ve already made the trip.
- Call the facility and ask for visit staff - If nobody answers, leave a voicemail; visit staff may work a non-traditional schedule to match visiting hours.
- Include the incarcerated person’s six-digit DOC number - Add a brief summary of your issue so staff can help you faster.
- Escalate to the Statewide Visit Unit if needed - If the facility can’t resolve it, contact the Statewide Visit Unit and include the person’s name and six-digit DOC number.
Quick Summary
- ✓ Valid, current government-issued photo ID (passport for international visitors)
- ✓ Electronic Visit Application submitted (DOC accepts electronic applications only)
- ✓ Expect searches of visitors and belongings (including vehicles and bags)
- ✓ Don’t refuse a search: first refusal = 90-day suspension; second refusal = loss of all visit privileges
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