How to Schedule a Visit With an Inmate in Florida

How Florida's inmate visitation system works

Florida's Department of Corrections runs a visitation system where you schedule visits in advance through their online portal or by phone. You cannot simply show up at a facility — every visit requires a confirmed appointment, and the process differs slightly depending on which facility holds the inmate and whether you are a first-time visitor.

The state uses a centralized scheduling system called the Visitation Management System (VMS). Most facilities let you book visits online through the DOC website, though some older or smaller facilities still require phone scheduling. Visits typically happen on weekends and certain weekday evenings, and each facility sets its own available time slots.

Before you can visit, you must be on the inmate's approved visitor list. The inmate submits a form requesting you as a visitor, and the facility approves or denies that request. This step happens before you ever try to schedule an appointment.

Key Takeaways

• You must be on the inmate's approved visitor list before you can schedule any visit — the inmate fills out the request form at their facility.
• Most Florida facilities use the online Visitation Management System to book appointments, though you can call the facility directly if you cannot use the website.
• Visits happen on weekends and select weekday evenings; each facility posts its own available time slots, and you choose from those dates and times.
• You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID to every visit, and the facility will search your belongings before you enter the visitation area.
• Cancellations and no-shows can result in temporary bans from visitation, so contact the facility as soon as you know you cannot attend.

Getting on the inmate's approved visitor list

The inmate must request you as a visitor using the DOC's Visitor Request Form (Form DC 802). They fill this out at their facility and submit it to the visitation coordinator. You cannot request yourself — the inmate initiates the process.

The form asks for your full name, date of birth, relationship to the inmate, and contact information. The facility then runs a background check. Most people are approved, but the DOC can deny visitation rights if you have certain criminal convictions, outstanding warrants, or if you are a victim in the inmate's case. The approval process usually takes one to two weeks.

Once approved, you stay on the list indefinitely unless you are removed for violating visitation rules. You do not need to reapply each time you visit.

Scheduling your visit through the online system

Go to the Florida Department of Corrections website and find the Visitation Management System link. You will need the inmate's name and DOC number (a unique identifier assigned when they entered the system). If you do not have the DOC number, you can search for the inmate using their full name and date of birth.

Log in or create an account using your email address. Select the facility where the inmate is housed, then view the available time slots for upcoming weeks. Each facility displays its visitation schedule — most offer Saturday and Sunday visits, and some offer weekday evening slots. Choose a date and time that works for you and confirm your booking.

You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details. Print this confirmation or save it on your phone to show at the facility entrance. Some facilities require you to check in 15 minutes early.

Scheduling by phone if you cannot use the website

If you do not have internet access or prefer to book by phone, call the visitation office at the facility where the inmate is housed. The main DOC phone line can connect you to the right facility, or you can search the DOC website for the specific facility's visitation phone number.

Have the inmate's full name and DOC number ready when you call. The visitation coordinator will confirm you are on the approved list, tell you what dates and times are open, and book your appointment over the phone. They will give you a confirmation number — write this down in case you need to reference or cancel the visit later.

Phone lines are busiest on weekday mornings. Calling early in the week often means shorter wait times.

What to bring and what to expect on visit day

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The facility will not let you in without it. Do not bring the inmate anything; Florida DOC rules prohibit passing items directly to inmates during visits. If you need to send the inmate money or property, use the facility's approved mail or commissary system.

Wear appropriate clothing. The DOC has a dress code for visitors: no revealing clothing, no clothing with offensive language or images, no all-black or all-white outfits (reserved for inmates and staff), and no clothing that mimics inmate uniforms. Wear closed-toe shoes.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You will go through a security screening — the facility may search your bag, pat you down, or use a metal detector. Leave your phone, keys, and wallet in your car or a locker if the facility provides one. You will not be allowed to bring these into the visitation area.

Visits typically last one to two hours, depending on the facility. The visitation coordinator will tell you when time is up. Be respectful to staff and follow all posted rules — violations can result in removal from the facility and temporary or permanent bans from future visits.

Canceling or rescheduling your appointment

If you cannot make your scheduled visit, cancel through the Visitation Management System as soon as possible. Log into your account, find the appointment, and select the cancellation option. If you booked by phone, call the facility's visitation office and provide your confirmation number.

Canceling at least 24 hours before your visit shows respect for the inmate's time and the facility's schedule. If you miss a visit without canceling, the facility may place a temporary hold on your visitation rights — usually a few weeks. Repeated no-shows can result in longer bans.

To reschedule, cancel your current appointment first, then book a new one using the same method you used originally.

Rules that can get you banned from visiting

The DOC enforces strict visitation rules. Do not attempt to bring contraband (drugs, weapons, phones, or other prohibited items) into the facility. Do not pass items to the inmate or receive items from them during the visit. Do not engage in sexual contact or excessive physical contact — a brief hug or kiss is allowed, but prolonged physical contact will end your visit.

Do not discuss escape plans, criminal activity, or anything related to the inmate's case in a way that could interfere with their legal proceedings. Do not use profanity or become aggressive with staff or other visitors. Do not take photographs or record video unless the facility explicitly permits it.

Violations result in immediate removal from the facility. A first violation may trigger a temporary ban (30 to 90 days). Serious violations or repeated infractions can result in permanent removal from the visitation list.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved as a visitor?

The background check and approval process usually takes one to two weeks after the inmate submits the Visitor Request Form. Some facilities move faster; others take longer depending on their workload. You can call the facility to check on the status of your request.

Can I visit an inmate if they are in solitary confinement or disciplinary housing?

Visitation privileges are usually suspended while an inmate is in disciplinary segregation. Contact the facility to find out when the inmate will return to general population and visitation will resume. Some facilities allow phone calls during this time instead.

What if the facility does not have any open time slots when I want to visit?

Visitation slots fill up, especially on weekends. Check the online system several days in advance and book as early as possible. If your preferred time is full, choose an alternative date or call the facility to ask about cancellations. Some visitors cancel last-minute, and slots may open up.

Can I bring my children to visit an inmate?

Yes, children can visit if they are on the inmate's approved visitor list. The same dress code and behavior rules apply to children. Young children must be supervised at all times during the visit. Some facilities have separate visitation areas for families with children.

What happens if I show up without a scheduled appointment?

The facility will not let you in. Visitation is by appointment only in Florida. You must schedule in advance through the online system or by phone. Walk-ups are not permitted.