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Visiting Application and FAQ for Visiting an Arkansas DOC Inmate

When an inmate first arrives at an institution they are informed about the visiting procedures, including the days/hours visitation is allowed, the dress code and identification policy for visitors, as well as what items a visitor may bring with him or her to visitation.  

With everything that goes on during those first few days of being incarcerated, it can be difficult for an inmate to remember the rules and to inform visitors of all the policies, that's why we have put together the basic things that you will need to know when you go to visit an inmate in Arkansas:

  • In order to be eligible to visit an inmate, you must fill out an Arkansas visiting application.
  • The application is not available online, and the Arkansas Department of Correction requires you request the visitor's form directly from the inmate and have them mail it to you.
  • Fill out the application accurately and honestly, a background check will be performed and if they find out that you lied you will be denied visitation.
  • Return the application to the institution by mailing it directly to the inmate.
  • Wait for your visitor's application to be approved or denied.  This process can take anywhere from one to six weeks.
  • Arkansas allows inmates to have up to four visitors during a single visit.  This includes children.
  • The only exception to the maximum number of visitors is if you are the spouse of the inmate, then you can bring as many children as you need, but no other adult can attend the visit.
  • With the warden or visitation supervisor's approval, you may be allowed a special visit during any two days of the week, however, to qualify you must still be an approved visitor and must live over 300 miles from the facility.  Special visits on holidays are not allowed.
  • The institution will leave it up to the inmate to tell you if you have been approved or denied, so you must stay in constant contact with them about your application.
  • Valid photo ID such as a drivers license is required for all visitors, anyone 12 years or older must also provide a photo ID such as a passport or school ID.
  • Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to visit.
  • Visitors under 12 may be required to furnish a birth certificate.

Some additional information you should know if you plan on visiting an inmate in Arkansas:

  • Visiting is always on Saturdays or Sundays
  • If a month has 5 Saturdays or 5 Sundays in it, visiting will not be permitted on those days.
  • Your vehicle and your person can and will both be searched.
  • Arkansas institutions will randomly test visitors for drugs using an Ion scanner.
  • All visitors will pass through a metal detector.
  • Cell phones, cameras, food, snacks, pocketknives are all prohibited from entering the facility.
  • Cigarettes and all other tobacco products are not allowed, leave these items in your car, do not enter the facility with them or you will be banned from visiting.
  • You can bring a small number of coins/small bills for the vending machines at the visitation, don't bring more than $20.
  • If you have a small child/baby you may bring a clear baby bottle, diaper, wipes with you to visitation.

Visitors Dress Code for Arkansas Prisons

Every prison and jail has a dress code that must be followed, or you will not be allowed to visit your inmate.  The dress code is up to the discretion of the guard on duty.   When visiting a correctional facility you should always bring a change of clothes with you and leave them in your car just in case something you thought was alright to wear turns out to be prohibited.  The dress code exists for the safety and security of the visitors, inmates and staff.

  • Camouflage and uniforms are not allowed, this includes scrubs, military uniforms etc.
  • Sleeveless shirts, including halter tops, tank tops, tube tops, and anything that exposes cleavage or excessive skin is prohibited.  No low cut shirts in the front or the back are allowed.
  • No hats/scarves are allowed
  • Shorts, skirts above the knee, skirts with slits above the knee, dresses are prohibited.
  • See through and sheer clothing is not allowed. 
  • Children 10 and under may wear shorts

If you want to share your experience visiting an inmate in Arkansas, want to leave a comment, or have a question about visitation please leave us a comment below.