What to Bring (and What to Leave Home) — Visiting Taylorville Correctional Center
A little prep goes a long way at Taylorville Correctional Center. Show up with the right IDs, the right clothing, and only what's allowed past the Visitor Center—you'll avoid the most common reasons people get delayed or turned away.
Every adult visitor needs two forms of identification. One must be a current, state-issued photo ID. Show up with only one ID - or an expired photo ID - and you may not get in.
You'll need to provide basic vehicle information at check-in. Know what you drove in and have the details ready so you're not scrambling in line.
Reminder: Arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled visit time.
First-time visitors have extra paperwork. You'll need to complete a Prospective Visitor's Interview (DOC 0148) unless you've already received prior approval through the electronic PVI process. Before you travel, confirm you're on your loved one's approved visitation list. The only way to do this is by writing them a letter - IDOC staff can't verify your list status by phone.
ID Prohibited Items Lockers
- ✓ Electronic devices (including cell phones, tablets, and smart watches)
- ✓ Food
- ✓ Drink
- ✓ Smoking materials
- ✓ Currency
- ✓ Packages
- ✓ Purses
- ✓ Bags
- ✓ Books
- ✓ Magazines
- ✓ Sunglasses
- ✓ Personal keys
Brought personal items? Use the small lockers in the Visiting Center. They're free, and they're the safest spot for anything you can't take into the Visiting Room.
Don't risk the trip: If you're intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you won't be allowed in.
Dress like you're trying to get past a strict front desk - because you are. Dresses, shorts, and skirts must extend to the knee. Clothing can't reveal your buttocks or breasts. If you're unsure about an outfit, go more conservative. Sexually explicit, offensive, degrading, or gang-affiliated clothing will get you turned away.
You'll go through security screening at the Visitor Center. This includes a body search by officers - build in extra time so it doesn't make you late.
Expect a COVID-19 symptom screening and temperature check at the entrance. If you or someone in your group isn't feeling well, consider rescheduling before making the drive.
Masks: The facility provides a surgical mask to all visitors over age two.
Need insulin during your visit? Visitors can return to the Visiting Center to administer an injection. Just know that any syringes must be removed from the facility when you leave.
Visiting with an infant or need breastfeeding accommodations? Plan ahead and keep what you bring minimal. Medical needs like insulin are handled through the Visiting Center - if you need supplies or privacy, ask staff what's allowed before you get in line.
ID Pre Visit Checklist
- ✓ Bring two forms of ID for every adult (one must be a current state-issued photo ID)
- ✓ If it’s your first visit to a facility, be ready to complete the Prospective Visitor’s Interview (DOC 0148) unless you already have electronic PVI approval
- ✓ Leave prohibited items in the car or plan to store them in a Visiting Center locker (especially phones/smart watches, food/drinks, purses/bags, books/magazines, sunglasses, and personal keys)
Video visits: IDOC has transitioned video visitation service from GTL to ICSolutions for all facilities (except ATCs).
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