How to Schedule a Visit with an Inmate at LA County Sheriff's Department Facilities

Book your visit through the LASD's online system or by phone before you arrive at the facility

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) requires visitors to schedule appointments in advance. You cannot show up without a reservation — facilities will turn you away. The easiest route is the LASD's online visitation booking system, which lets you pick your date and time slot immediately. If you do not have internet access or prefer to book by phone, you can call the specific facility where the inmate is housed.

Scheduling takes about 10 minutes online. You will need the inmate's full name, booking number (also called the inmate number), and the facility name. If you do not know the booking number, the LASD inmate locator tool on their website will find it for you. Once you submit your request, you will receive a confirmation with your appointment time and any rules specific to that facility.

Key Takeaways

• Book your visit through lasd.org or by calling the facility directly — walk-ins are not permitted at any LASD location.
• You will need the inmate's full name and booking number, which you can find using the LASD inmate locator if you do not have it.
• Visiting hours and availability vary by facility, so check the specific location where the inmate is held before you book.
• Bring a valid government-issued photo ID to every visit — without it, you will not be allowed inside.
• Certain items are banned in all facilities, including weapons, drugs, recording devices, and outside food; check the facility rules before you arrive.

Finding the inmate's location and booking number

Before you can book a visit, you need to know which LASD facility holds the inmate. The county operates multiple locations, and inmates move between them. Use the LASD inmate locator at lasd.org — enter the person's first and last name, and the system will show you which facility they are in and their booking number.

If the search returns no results, the person may have been released, transferred to another county or state, or booked under a different name. Call the facility directly if you are unsure. The main LASD inmate information line can also help you locate someone, though wait times can be long during peak hours.

How to book through the LASD website

Go to lasd.org and look for the visitation or inmate services section. You will see a link to the online booking system. Select the facility where the inmate is housed — this is important, as each location has its own schedule and rules. Enter the inmate's booking number and your own information, then choose your preferred date and time from available slots.

The system will show you which days and times that facility allows visits. Some locations offer visits only on certain days of the week, and some have morning and afternoon sessions. Once you confirm your appointment, you will receive a confirmation number via email or text. Save this number — you may need it at check-in.

Booking by phone if you cannot use the website

If you do not have internet access or the online system is not working, call the specific facility where the inmate is held. The LASD website lists phone numbers for each location. When you call, have the inmate's full name and booking number ready. The staff member will tell you available visiting times and book your appointment over the phone.

Phone lines are busiest in the early morning and late afternoon. If you get a busy signal or long hold time, try calling during mid-day hours. Some facilities also accept appointment requests by email — check the facility's page on lasd.org to see if that option is listed.

What to bring and what is not allowed

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Without it, you will not be permitted to enter. Wear appropriate clothing: no gang-affiliated colors or symbols, no clothing that resembles inmate uniforms, and no overly revealing outfits. Rules vary slightly by facility, so check the specific location's dress code before you go.

Do not bring weapons, drugs, alcohol, recording devices, cameras, or outside food. Many facilities also ban items like excessive cash, jewelry, or certain types of bags. Some locations allow clear plastic bags only. Check the facility's rules on lasd.org or ask when you book your appointment. Violating these rules can result in being denied entry and may affect the inmate's housing status or privileges.

What happens when you arrive for your visit

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Check in at the visitor entrance and provide your confirmation number and ID. Security staff will scan your ID, search your belongings, and may conduct a metal detector screening. This process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Keep your phone and keys in a locker or with the security desk — most facilities do not allow visitors to carry these items into the visitation area.

Once cleared, you will be directed to the visitation room or booth. Some facilities have contact visits where you sit at a table with the inmate; others use video visitation or phone booths with glass barriers. The facility will tell you which type applies when you book. Visits typically last 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the location. A staff member will notify you when time is up.

If your appointment is cancelled or you need to reschedule

If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it through the online system or by calling the facility as soon as possible. This frees up the time slot for other visitors. To reschedule, book a new appointment through the same system. Some facilities have a waiting list if you cancel close to your visit date, so plan ahead when you can.

If the facility cancels your visit — for example, due to a lockdown or the inmate being transferred — you will be notified by phone or email. You can then reschedule at no penalty. If you miss an appointment without cancelling, some facilities may restrict your future booking privileges, so contact them if an emergency prevents you from attending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book a visit every time, or is one appointment good for multiple visits?

You must book a separate appointment for each visit. There is no standing or recurring visitation schedule. Each time you want to visit, go through the booking process again — online or by phone — to reserve your slot.

Can I bring my children to visit an inmate?

Yes, minors can visit, but they must be supervised by an adult at all times. Some facilities have age restrictions or require that children be listed on the inmate's approved visitor list. Call the facility to ask about their specific rules for minors before you book.

What if the inmate is in the hospital or has been transferred while I am trying to book?

The inmate locator will show their current location. If they have been transferred, you will need to book at the new facility. If they are in a hospital or special unit, call the facility directly — some locations do not allow standard visitation for inmates in medical or psychiatric care.

Is there a cost to visit an inmate at LASD facilities?

Visitation itself is free. However, some facilities may charge for video visitation if you use their system to visit remotely instead of in person. Check with your specific facility about any fees.

What should I do if I was denied entry or turned away at a visit?

Ask the staff member why you were denied — common reasons include missing ID, prohibited clothing, or items in your bag. If you believe the decision was unfair, ask for a supervisor. You can also contact the facility's main line the next business day to discuss what happened and how to prepare for your next visit.