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Visit-day checklist: Virginia prisons
What to wear, which ID to bring and what you can carry in, from VADOC's official rules. Pick a prison to add its address, phone and hours. Print it or keep it on your phone.
Before visit day
- ☐ Apply online (about 20-30 minutes, in one sitting). You need the person's name or ID number, a photo ID and your Social Security number. Add children to an adult's application. (official source) (opens in new tab)
- ☐ VADOC says processing takes about 45 days for Virginia residents and 90 days for out-of-state residents. (official source) (opens in new tab)
- ☐ Since June 2023 you no longer need to be on the person's visiting list. You may visit only one person who isn't immediate family. Approvals expire after three years; renew 45 days ahead (90 out of state). (official source) (opens in new tab)
- ☐ Check for lockdowns or cancelled visits: Virginia facility status.
What to wear
- ☐ Attire must cover from the neck to the kneecaps, include appropriate underwear, and footwear must be worn at all times. (official source) (opens in new tab)
ID to bring
- VADOC's ID rule isn't on the official pages we could read. Check the official visiting page (opens in new tab) or call the prison before you go.
What you can bring, what stays in the car
- ☐ No food or drinks will be allowed in the facility, and there will be no access to vending machines. (official source) (opens in new tab)
More from VADOC on visiting
- ☐ Prisons typically allow visiting on Saturdays, Sundays and state holidays, but rules vary and can change; contact the facility before you go and check VADOC's visitation updates. (official source) (opens in new tab)
- ☐ Once approved, schedule visits online with VADOC's Visitation Scheduler. (official source) (opens in new tab)
- ☐ Minors must come with a parent, guardian or approved adult. An adult who isn't the parent or guardian must bring a notarized statement or court order every time. (official source) (opens in new tab)
Rules can differ by prison and change without notice; the prison's posted rules win. Quoted or summarized from official VADOC pages, each linked. Not legal advice. No sponsors or affiliate links. Last checked .
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