How to Schedule Your Visit at Trenton: The 15-Hour Advance Rule
Visiting someone at Trenton requires advance planning. You'll need to schedule through the GTL scheduler at least 15 hours before your visit. The visitation window runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and each appointment is a two-hour block.
Here's the key rule: every in-person visit must be scheduled through GTL at least 15 hours in advance. No exceptions. Same-day visits won't work. Want to visit tomorrow morning at 8 a.m.? You'll need to have your appointment locked in by 5 p.m. today at the latest.
Plan-ahead reminder: If you’re trying to visit tomorrow, schedule today early enough to clear the 15-hour requirement.
Visits happen between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and you'll pick a specific two-hour block - not just a vague window. Factor in travel time when choosing your slot so you're not rushing to make check-in.
Tip: When you pick a two-hour block, remember you also need that 15-hour lead time - don’t wait until the last minute to grab the last available block.
Steps Gtl
- ✓ Confirm you’re approved/registered for visitation before you try to schedule
- ✓ If you’re 18+ and have a valid South Carolina driver’s license, be ready to use the online registration option (effective June 1, 2025)
- ✓ Give yourself enough time to meet the “schedule at least 15 hours ahead” rule
- Confirm your visitor approval/registration - Make sure you’re cleared to visit before you try to book a time; adults 18+ with a valid South Carolina driver’s license can register for visitation online (effective June 1, 2025).
- Use the GTL scheduler to book your visit - Your in-person visit has to be scheduled through GTL.
- Choose a date and time that fits the schedule - Visits run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and are booked in two-hour blocks.
- Schedule at least 15 hours before the visit starts - Pick your block early enough that you’re not bumped by the cutoff.
- Keep your scheduled time handy for the day of your visit - Since your visit is tied to a specific two-hour block, plan your day around that start time.
Note: If you still need to complete visitor registration/approval, do that first - then schedule your visit with enough cushion to meet the 15-hour cutoff.
Need to reschedule? The 15-hour rule still applies. Any changes go through GTL, and waiting until the last minute limits your options. Give yourself plenty of buffer when adjusting dates or times.
For help with scheduling questions or anything related to the visitation process, contact the Visitation office at visitation@doc.sc.gov or call the Visitation Inquiry Line at 803-896-1838 (press 1 for questions about the application process or to leave a message).
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