Phone and Video Calls in Texas (TDCJ)
Phone call rates, video visit options, tablet messaging, and how to set up communication with someone in a TDCJ unit.
Phone Calls
TDCJ’s Inmate Telephone System uses Securus. The incarcerated person initiates the call. Incoming calls to a unit are not available.
Basic phone rules
- Calls are limited to 30 minutes.
- Phones are generally available from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM unless unit conditions change access.
- Calls are recorded and monitored except calls to the attorney of record.
- The system gives a one-minute warning before disconnection.
Receiving calls
The receiving number must be registered before calls can be completed.
- Register the phone number through TexasPrisonPhone.com or by telephone through the vendor.
- Provide the TDCJ number for the incarcerated person.
- Confirm the registrant’s identity and the ownership of the number.
- Wait for the incarcerated person to add or activate the number through unit procedures.
The registered owner of the number must match the identification and telephone records used for verification.
Call Costs
As of March 29, 2026, TDCJ lists standard phone calls at $0.06 per minute.
Cost examples
| Communication type | Posted price | Typical session | Estimated charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone call | $0.06/minute | 15 minutes | $0.90 |
| Phone call | $0.06/minute | 30 minutes | $1.80 |
| Securus remote video | Flat fee | 60 minutes | $10.00 |
| Tablet video | No charge | 60 minutes | $0.00 |
Rate caps and contract structure
- TDCJ currently posts a $0.06 per-minute phone rate.
- Texas Government Code Section 495.027 requires the telephone vendor contract to pay TDCJ a commission of at least 40 percent of gross revenue.
- In practice, that means the vendor retains the remaining share of gross revenue under the contract structure.
- Federal inmate-calling regulations continue to change. New national caps or litigation outcomes can affect future posted rates.
Tablet Messaging and Tablets
TDCJ and Securus use secure tablets for messaging and other services at eligible units.
Tablets
- TDCJ announced the tablet rollout as a no-cost distribution to eligible inmates.
- Tablets are used for educational, vocational, religious, legal, and communication functions.
- Tablets do not provide open internet access.
- Premium media or paid communication features require funds.
Electronic messaging
- Securus eMessaging is available through the tablet system.
- Messages are paid for with electronic stamps.
- Stamp prices vary by facility and message type.
- Attachments such as photos or reply stamps usually require additional stamps.
Video Visitation
Texas uses two remote video systems: Securus remote video and tablet video visitation.
Securus remote video
- Offered only at specific units
- One 60-minute visit per month
- Cost: $10.00
- Registration occurs through the Securus website
Tablet video visitation
- Available at many additional units
- One 60-minute visit per month
- No cost
- TDCJ states that tablet visits do not count against in-person visits
Relationship to in-person visits
- Tablet and video visits are in addition to regular contact or non-contact visits where applicable.
- Availability is unit-specific.
- Not every unit offers both systems.