What to Bring to Check-In at USP Canaan: ID & Entry Checklist
Heading to USP Canaan for a visit? The fastest way to avoid a wasted trip is showing up with the right ID—and making sure your personal details match exactly what you submitted when you were approved.
Quick Checklist
- ✓ A valid, legal photo ID (required every single visit)
- ✓ A printed copy (or saved copy) of any visitor approval notice you have
- ✓ Any paperwork that explains a special situation (for example, a court order), if it applies to you
- ✓ The exact personal details you used when you were approved (name, date of birth, address, phone number), in case staff need to match or correct records
At check-in, the Bureau of Prisons uses an entry/exit tracking system called ACES. It captures and stores visitor identification details - basics like your name and current residence, and sometimes more sensitive information like a Social Security number. ACES may also take a digital photo and fingerprint. The system records ID numbers from whatever documents you present: driver's license number, passport number, or alien registration number. The takeaway? Whatever you hand over at the front desk needs to match who you are and what's already on file.
Why they collect this: ACES/Web Visiting is designed to log and track everyone entering and exiting the institution, and to help staff account for people quickly during an emergency.
Bring a government-issued photo ID you can hand over at check-in. Staff will compare it against what's in ACES - whether that's a driver's license or passport. Bottom line: you need a valid legal photo ID every time you visit USP Canaan.
Have paperwork from your visitor approval? Bring a copy. The Web Visiting system (WebV) stores your approved details - name, relationship, date of birth, legal residence, phone number, and ID numbers. If something doesn't line up at the desk, having your own records can speed things along.
Tip: For facility-specific phone numbers and addresses, use USP Canaan’s page in the BOP “Locations” area, or contact the facility directly.
Check-in isn't just a quick glance at your ID. ACES logs everyone entering and exiting BOP institutions, including approved visitors. Staff will take a moment to verify your details against what's already in the system before clearing you to go in.
- Have your legal photo ID in hand - you’ll need it every visit, and staff compare it to what’s in the system.
- Bring any proof of approval or related paperwork you have - WebV stores your approved visitor details, and a copy can help resolve a mismatch faster.
- Use the same personal details you were approved with - if your address, phone number, or other details don’t match what’s on file, expect extra questions while it’s sorted out.
If you’re unsure: Contact USP Canaan directly (or check its BOP “Locations” page) before you travel so you know which ID documents they’ll accept at the door.
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