What to Bring (and What to Wear) for a Visit at Wake County Detention
Visiting someone at Wake County Detention goes smoother when you bring the right ID, leave extras behind, and dress appropriately. Here's what you need to know to avoid getting turned away at the door.
Bring a picture ID. At Wake County Detention, you'll hand it over at check-in, and it stays at the registration desk for your entire visit. Don't plan on keeping it in your pocket or wallet while you're inside.
- ✓ U.S. government issued ID cards
- ✓ U.S. passports
- ✓ International passports
- ✓ Government identification cards from countries other than the U.S.
- ✓ Mexican Consular identification cards
Start with the basics: shirts and shoes are mandatory for all visitors. If you’re unsure about an outfit, aim for simple and covered - changing clothes at the last minute is one of the most common reasons people miss their visit.
- ✓ Halter tops
- ✓ Bare midriffs
- ✓ Strapless tops
- ✓ Tube tops
- ✓ Body suits
- ✓ Underwear-type tee-shirts
- ✓ Tank tops
- ✓ Sleeveless shirts or dresses
Wake County Detention restricts clothing based on fabric and fit. Fishnet shirts and anything see-through - shirts or pants - aren't allowed for any visitor. Spandex is also prohibited, so skip outfits made primarily from that material.
- ✓ Wave caps, doo rags, and bandanas are not allowed
- ✓ Bermuda-length shorts are allowed only if they are not more than three (3”) inches above the kneecap
- ✓ Slacks and pants must be worn at or above the waist
Travel light. Handbags, purses, and cell phones must go in lockers during your visit. Anything you don't want to lock up? Leave it at home or in your car.
Heads up: Money, messages, letters, packages, and similar items cannot be accepted during visitation.
Only the person registered by the officer can visit. If you refuse to provide the information staff requests during registration, your visit will be denied.
Find an Inmate at Wake County Public Safety Center, NC
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
