How to Get on an Inmate's Visiting List at USP Atwater
Visiting at USP Atwater starts long before you get in the car. You'll need to be on the inmate's approved visiting list and cleared by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) first—without both, you won't be allowed in.
You can't visit someone at USP Atwater just by showing up. The BOP requires two things: the inmate must add you to their approved visiting list, and you have to pass a background check. Without both, staff will turn you away - even if you're a close family member who traveled hours to get there.
The BOP builds visiting lists around family first. Relatives get priority, but the BOP also allows up to 10 friends or associates on top of family members. Clergy and members of religious groups can be approved, and so can certain officials like attorneys.
- Have the inmate add you to their visiting list - At USP Atwater, the process starts on the inmate’s side; they must place you on their approved visiting list.
- Wait for BOP clearance before planning the trip - You can only visit after you’ve been cleared by the BOP, so it’s worth confirming you’re approved before you try to schedule travel.
- ✓ Complete the BOP visitor questionnaire form BP-A0629 fully and honestly.
- ✓ Plan to bring valid government-issued photo ID when you go to visit.
- ✓ Verify USP Atwater’s current visiting hours and local visiting rules before you travel (check the facility’s visiting regulations page or contact the facility directly).
Note: Call USP Atwater before you travel. Transfers happen, and visiting lists may not be in place immediately after someone moves to a new facility.
Getting approved means filling out the BOP's visitor questionnaire, form BP-A0629. The form collects identity and background details, and it authorizes the warden to pull records of any arrests and convictions. Take your time with it - missing or mismatched information can stall your approval.
Warning: BP-A0629 includes a false-statement warning under 18 U.S.C. § 1001: penalties can include a fine up to $250,000, up to five years in prison, or both. Fill the form out carefully and truthfully.
Before making plans, check the details with USP Atwater directly. Visiting hours at BOP facilities are generally on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (sometimes weekdays too), but confirm USP Atwater's specific schedule in the facility's visiting regulations or by calling. Double-check right before you travel - inmates get transferred, and visiting lists don't always follow immediately.
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