Visiting in California (CDCR)

Getting Approved

Everyone must be approved before a first visit, and the process takes time — usually 4 to 6 weeks, and sometimes longer depending on the facility.

Who Can Visit

Most people can visit. You don’t have to be family — friends can visit too. Everyone goes through a background check.

• Adults (18+) — Apply on their own with CDCR Form 106
• Minors — Must be accompanied by an approved adult
• People with criminal records — Not automatic denial, but you must disclose everything

The Application Process

If You’re Denied

A denial isn’t always permanent. Common reasons include incomplete applications, undisclosed criminal history, or active warrants. You have the right to appeal, and you can reapply after 12 months. The denial letter will tell you the specific reason and your options.

Planning Your Visit

Once approved, visits are scheduled in advance through an online system. Most facilities do not allow walk-ins.

How to Schedule

Use the VSA (Visitation Scheduling Application) online. First-time users need to claim their account using their name and date of birth as listed on the Form 106.

When to Arrive

Arrival should occur before the posted visiting start time. For example, if visiting hours start at 8:00 AM, arrival by 7:00–7:15 AM allows time for processing. Processing includes ID verification, search procedures, and paperwork and can take 30 to 90 minutes. The visit time begins when seated in the visiting room, not upon arrival at the facility.

What to Wear

The dress code is strict, and being turned away over clothing is one of the most common reasons a visit is delayed or denied.

Colors to Avoid

• Blue denim — what incarcerated people wear
• Orange or bright yellow
• Khaki, tan, or beige — staff uniform colors
• Forest or olive green
• Camouflage of any kind

Clothing Rules

Tops: No tank tops, tube tops, spaghetti straps, sheer fabric, or low-cut necklines. Shoulders should be mostly covered.

Bottoms: No blue denim. Skirts and shorts must be within 2 inches of the knee. Leggings alone usually won’t pass — wear them under a skirt or dress.

Shoes: Closed-toe only. No sandals, flip-flops, or shoes without backs.

Underwear: Underwire bras will set off the metal detector. Wear a wireless/sports bra.

What to Bring

You can bring very little inside. Almost everything stays in your car or a locker.

Bring

• Government-issued photo ID — current and matching your application name
• Car key — one or two keys only, no keychains or extra attachments
• Vending machine money — in the amount the institution posts on its visiting page (limits vary by prison; for example, Valley State Prison posts $100 per adult and $50 per minor), in coins and $1 bills, in a clear bag
• Small clear bag — for your money and key

Leave in Your Car

• Cell phone (absolutely cannot come inside)
• Wallet (take out your ID and cash only)
• All electronics, purses, bags
• Food, drinks, medications
• Anything with metal (belt buckles, jewelry, bobby pins)

Search & Entry

All visitors are subject to search procedures. The process is standard.

The Visiting Room

Once inside, staff will direct you to a seat. You’ll sit across from or next to your person, depending on the room setup.

Physical Contact

General population visits usually allow:

• A brief hug and kiss at the start of the visit
• A brief hug and kiss at the end of the visit
• Holding hands during the visit
• Children can sit on laps

What counts as “brief” or “excessive” is up to the officer on duty. Staff interpretation varies day to day.

Vending Machines

Most visiting rooms have vending machines with snacks and drinks. The incarcerated person cannot handle money or operate the machines, so the visitor makes the purchases. Bring coins or $1 bills only, up to the limit the institution posts on its visiting page — the maximums vary by prison.

Photos

Many facilities offer photos during visits, usually for $3–5. Staff takes the photo with an instant camera.

Visiting with Children

Children of all ages may visit. Visiting requires logistical preparation.

Getting Kids Approved

• List children on your CDCR Form 106 application
• Bring their birth certificate to every visit until they turn 18
• The accompanying adult must be specifically approved to bring that child
• If you’re not the child’s parent, you need written authorization from the parent

What to Expect

Some facilities have designated play areas with toys or coloring supplies. Children must remain with approved adults at all times. Processing time increases with children present. The facility environment includes metal detectors, uniformed staff, and security procedures.

When Visits Get Cancelled

Visits may be cancelled for various reasons, including facility operations and security incidents.

Common Reasons

• Lockdowns — security incidents, investigations, or facility-wide counts
• Modified programs — reduced operations due to staffing shortages or incidents
• Medical quarantine — illness outbreaks in a housing unit or facility-wide
• Weather — fog delays transport at some facilities, particularly in the Central Valley
• Your person’s status — rule violations, medical holds, housing transfers

If you traveled a long distance and visits are cancelled, some facilities may attempt to accommodate you with a future slot. Ask staff about rescheduling options, though availability is not guaranteed.

First Visit Timeline

A typical first visit follows this sequence:

What It Actually Costs

There is no fee to visit, but a visit still carries real costs. The list below outlines what a typical visit involves, for budgeting.

For families visiting regularly, these costs recur. Some community and reentry organizations offer travel assistance or gas cards for visiting families.

Verify Before Acting

For the general, nationwide overview of this topic, see the national guide: Visiting Basics.