Video Visits Through SmartInmate: What You Need to Do Before Your First San Diego County Call

You can't just hop on a video visit in San Diego County. Every session has to be reserved through SmartInmate (Smart Communications), which is the system you'll use to find, book, and manage your appointment.

Before you can schedule anything, you'll need a SmartInmate account. Create one first, make sure you can log in, then come back to book your visit.

There are no same-day video visits. Reservations must be made one day in advance, so if you want to visit tomorrow, get it scheduled today.

Slots are first-come, first-served. Once you're inside the one-day-ahead window, book as soon as you can. Wait too long and you'll be stuck with fewer options (or none at all).

Each video visit is 30 minutes long. That goes fast. Have a couple of topics ready and handle any setup before your time starts.

Each incarcerated person gets two video visits per week. If multiple family members want time, coordinate ahead so you don't accidentally burn through both slots early in the week.

Video visitation is available seven days a week. That gives you flexibility to spread the two weekly visits across different days, whatever works best for you and your loved one.

Day of Visit Tips

• ✓ Check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled visit time.
• ✓ Log into your SmartInmate account ahead of time so you are not resetting passwords at the last minute.

1. Sign into SmartInmate early - confirm you can access the visit area from the device you plan to use.
2. Test your camera and microphone - make sure your audio and video work before your reservation time.
3. Stabilize your connection - use a reliable internet connection so you do not waste time troubleshooting during your scheduled visit.