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Visitation

When Visits Happen at Texas Prisons — Hours, How Long They Last, and When You Can Get Extra Time

Texas prison visits typically happen on weekends, with a standard two-hour window. Here's how the schedule works, when your time actually starts, and how to request extra time if you're traveling from far away.

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
When Visits Happen at Texas Prisons — Hours, How Long They Last, and When You Can Get Extra Time

Regular visiting hours at TDCJ units run Saturdays and Sundays, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. But showing up within that window doesn't guarantee a full visit. Your actual time together depends on when you're processed in and when your loved one is brought out. Arrive early and plan your day around those hours - don't aim for the last minute.

Note: Call the unit for final confirmation before you travel. Schedules and availability can change, and a quick check can save you a wasted trip.

A regular visit lasts two hours. The clock starts when both you and the inmate are present in the visiting area - not when you arrive at the facility. If you're late, if check-in drags on, or if it takes a while for your loved one to be escorted out, that time isn't added back. Your two hours begin once you're both there.

Each inmate gets only one visit per weekend. This catches families off guard when they try to rotate visitors or split time across groups - if someone visits Saturday, later visitors will be turned away Sunday. Coordinate with everyone on the approved list and with your loved one ahead of time so you're not competing for the same slot.

Tip: If you’re trying to plan around the one-visit-per-weekend rule, call the unit before you go. It’s the best way to confirm what will count for that weekend and avoid scheduling conflicts.

Traveling a long way? You may qualify for an extended visit. If you're coming from more than 250 miles one way, the warden (or designee) can approve up to four hours instead of the standard two. This depends on available time and space - it's not automatic. Think of it as an accommodation, not a guarantee.

Note: Because extended visits are discretionary, confirm with the unit (and the warden’s office if directed) well before you travel - especially if you’re making a 250+ mile one-way trip.

When Visits Happen at Texas Prisons — Hours, How Long They Last, and When You Can Get Extra Time

S5

  • ✓ Arrive early so your two-hour visit can start as close to on-time as possible once you and the inmate are both present.
  • ✓ If you’re traveling more than 250 miles one way, ask ahead about an extended visit (up to four hours) and whether it has been approved by the warden or designee.
  • ✓ Call the unit for final confirmation before you travel so you’re not surprised by schedule changes or visit cancellations.

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