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What to Expect During Your First Visit to WRDCC: Weekend Hours, Address, and Check‑In

Your first visit can feel overwhelming—especially when you're unsure where to go, when to show up, or what check-in involves. Here's the WRDCC-specific info you need before heading out.

• 2 min read • doc.mo.gov
What to Expect During Your First Visit to WRDCC: Weekend Hours, Address, and Check‑In

Western Reception, Diagnostic And Correctional Center (WRDCC) is at 3401 Faraon St, Joseph, MO 64506. Plug the full street address into your GPS exactly as written - you don't want to waste time circling when you're close.

If you need to confirm details before you leave or you run into a day-of issue, call WRDCC at (816) 387-2158.

Visiting hours are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with two sessions each day: 9:30am–1:30pm and 2:30pm–6:30pm. Aim to arrive before your session starts. Check-in and screening take time, and showing up late means less time with your person.

Timing rule: You may arrive in the parking lot no earlier than 30 minutes before visiting starts.

Before making the drive, confirm you're approved to visit. Missouri DOC requires pre-approval - you'll need to complete a visiting application, and they'll run a criminal history check. On visit day, bring valid photo ID. For adults, that's a current driver's license or Department of Revenue ID card. If your ID isn't valid, staff will turn you away at the door - even if you've traveled hours to get there.

Security screening: When you enter prison grounds, you, your packages, your children, and your vehicle are subject to search. Metal detectors are used at all facilities.

What to Expect During Your First Visit to WRDCC: Weekend Hours, Address, and Check‑In

Bags Lockers

  • ✓ Bring only the basics, since you and any items you carry in are subject to search and screening.
  • ✓ Use the small lockers (available at most institutions) to store a purse, wallet, or keys.
  • ✓ Leave extra bags, packages, and anything you don’t truly need secured in your vehicle to keep check-in moving smoothly.

For last-minute questions on the day you plan to visit, you can reach WRDCC at (816) 387-2158.

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