Texas Department of Criminal Justice Inmate Search 2026

Recent Arrest Lookup Name + state search
Lookup Active

Worried About a Recent Arrest?

Search by name and state to check available arrest, mugshot, jail, booking, and court report options.

Report availability varies. Not for employment, tenant, credit, or insurance decisions.
Texas state custody · Search, verify and act safely

Locate a Texas State Prison Inmate and Complete the Right Next Step

Find the correct person, current TDCJ unit, sentence and release information before you send money, mail a letter, register a phone or schedule a visit.

This guide also solves missing-result problems, explains parole codes, separates county jail from state and federal custody, and routes urgent medical, safety and family concerns.

Current and previous TDCJ numbers Unit and release verification 2026 mail, phone and visit rules Family problem router
Open current TDCJ offender search Fix a missing result Choose the next service
TEXAS CUSTODY COMMAND CENTER OFFICIAL ROUTE READY
OFFENDER SEARCH CONNECTED
CURRENT UNIT + STATUS
IDENTITY VERIFIED
UNIT + RELEASE ROUTE MATCHED
COUNTY
INTAKE
UNIT
RELEASE
Use official TDCJ information for action—not an old screenshot. Custody, unit assignment, privileges, release processing, parole status and schedules can change. Recheck the official result before sending money, mailing important documents, scheduling a visit or beginning a long drive.
Independent-site notice: Texas-Arrests.org is an independent informational guide. It is not operated, approved or endorsed by TDCJ, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, Texas.gov, Securus, a county sheriff, a court or another government agency.
Best identifier

Use the current TDCJ number exactly as displayed.

Search alternatives

Legal name, SID number or previous TDCJ number.

Recent arrest

Search the county jail before searching state prison.

General locator

936-295-6371 or 800-535-0283.

Travel rule

Call the assigned unit before a visit or pickup trip.

Start in the correct system

Choose the search that matches the person’s custody stage

TDCJ does not contain every person arrested in Texas. First determine whether the person is in a county jail, TDCJ state custody, federal custody, supervision or historical records.

RECENT ARREST County sheriff or jail

Use this for booking, bond, pretrial detention and people who have not entered state custody.

A county booking number normally belongs here.
STATE SENTENCE TDCJ offender search

Use this after the person has been received into Texas state prison or state-jail custody.

Search by current TDCJ number, SID or legal name.
FEDERAL CASE Federal BOP locator

Use the federal locator when the sentence was imposed in United States District Court.

Federal custody is separate from TDCJ.
FORMER INMATE Previous number or records request

Search previous TDCJ numbers or request incarceration history from TDCJ.

Current-custody results may not answer historical questions.
PAROLE / RELEASE TDCJ and BPP resources

Use the offender detail, parole status line and release-processing contacts.

Parole eligibility is not release approval.
Search current TDCJ custody Search federal BOP custody Open the Texas prison search guide

Jump directly to the task you need

Every section explains the official process before sending you to the live portal.

Search with incomplete details

Use TDCJ wildcard searches for partial names and numbers

The current TDCJ portal explains that an asterisk can be used for partial matches. This is useful when you know only part of a name, SID number or previous TDCJ number.

Name begins with letters

Rich* can return names beginning with “Rich.”

Name ends with letters

*son can return names ending with “son.”

Number contains digits

*123* can return identifiers containing “123.”

Do not over-filter too early. Begin with the strongest reliable detail. Adding an incorrect middle name, suffix, date or spelling can remove the correct match.
Try a current-name or SID search Search previous TDCJ numbers
Identity safeguard

Verify the inmate before sending money, mail or personal information

Full legal first and last name match
Middle name, suffix or known alias is consistent
Current TDCJ number matches
SID number matches when known
Age or date of birth is consistent
County of conviction fits the known case
Offense and sentence date fit the timeline
Current unit and custody stage make sense
Minimum safe-verification rule: Match at least two independent identifiers. Never send funds because a person in a message, social-media account or telephone call supplied only a name and claimed an emergency.
Identifier-format warning: Some TDCJ guidance describes a seven-digit TDCJ number, while some newer 2026 online forms display an eight-digit field. Copy the identifier exactly as shown by the official offender result and follow the format requested by the specific official portal. Do not guess or alter the number.
No-result troubleshooting

No TDCJ inmate result found? Follow this decision path

The arrest was recent Search the arresting county’s sheriff or jail roster. Pretrial detainees are normally not in the TDCJ state-prison search.
The person was recently sentenced County transport, intake, identification, medical screening, assessment and classification may still be underway.
The county says “transferred” The county record may close before the TDCJ public result shows the intake or assigned unit. Save the county booking and court cause numbers.
The search uses a nickname Try the legal commitment name, first initial, maiden name, former surname, suffix-free version and spelling variations.
You have an old TDCJ number Use the separate Previous TDCJ Number Search rather than only the current-number search.
You have a county booking number Return to the county jail search. County and TDCJ identifiers are different.
The case was federal Search the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator.
The person was released or discharged Request incarceration history by email or use court and archival records for historical confirmation.
The person may be under supervision Check parole-related information and contact the correct parole status line with the TDCJ number, SID or exact date of birth.
The portal is not loading Try the official current portal, the legacy search link, another browser or a later time. Do not use a paid look-alike search as a substitute.

Use the following order for a recent county-to-TDCJ transfer

Confirm the sentencing county Save the county, legal name, booking number, court, cause number and sentencing date.
Ask whether physical transfer occurred “Transferred” can describe a paperwork or custody-status change. Ask the county whether the person physically left.
Search TDCJ again using the legal name Try the SID number or wildcard search if the result is still missing.
Use TDCJ email or telephone information Provide the exact date of birth when the TDCJ or SID number is unknown.
Escalate urgent health or safety concerns separately Do not wait for a public web result when an immediate medical, PREA or safety concern exists.
Search previous TDCJ numbers Request inmate information by email Check federal custody
Result-field decoder

Understand what each TDCJ search field means

Read the field, avoid the wrong assumption and complete the correct next action
Result field
What it identifies
What it does not guarantee
Useful next step
TDCJ number
The state-custody identifier connected to the inmate.
That a county booking number or old number will work in its place.
Copy it exactly for mail, money, calls, visits and unit questions.
SID number
A Texas state identification number associated with criminal-history records.
That every service accepts it instead of a TDCJ number.
Use it for search verification and parole-status requests.
Current unit
The current TDCJ assignment shown in the public record.
That the inmate will remain there or that it is the release location.
Open the official unit directory and call before travel.
Offense of conviction
The conviction connected to the displayed incarceration information.
A complete explanation of every count, appeal or court event.
Use the trial court and cause number for the controlling judgment.
Sentence
The punishment imposed for a displayed conviction.
A simple release calculation when multiple cases or consecutive sentences exist.
Review every displayed sentence and the official court judgment.
Parole eligibility
When parole consideration may become legally possible.
A vote, favorable decision or release.
Check the review status and BPP process.
Projected release date
TDCJ’s current release projection under applicable sentence rules.
A confirmed pickup date or location.
Wait for scheduled release information and verify before traveling.
Maximum sentence date
The current maximum sentence endpoint shown by TDCJ.
That parole, mandatory supervision or another legal change cannot occur earlier.
Compare it with eligibility, parole and projected-release fields.
Parole review status
The stage or decision information published for parole review.
Immediate release after a favorable vote.
Decode the vote and check post-vote release processing.
Scheduled release date/location
A release event currently scheduled by TDCJ.
That the event cannot change, including on the scheduled day.
Call the release location before leaving home.
Identifier guide

TDCJ number, SID number, booking number and cause number are not interchangeable

Use the correct number for the correct job
Identifier
Created by
Best use
Common mistake
Current TDCJ number
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
TDCJ search, mail, approved services, deposits, calls, visits and unit contacts.
Replacing it with a county booking number.
Previous TDCJ number
TDCJ during an earlier incarceration
Historical matching through the previous-number search.
Assuming it is the current service identifier.
SID number
Texas criminal-justice identification process
Identity matching, TDCJ search and parole-status requests.
Assuming every payment or mail form accepts it.
County booking number
County sheriff or local jail
County booking, bond, jail mail and pretrial services.
Using it after the person enters TDCJ.
Court cause number
Trial court or clerk
Judgments, filings, appeals, hearings and certified court records.
Treating it as an inmate ID.
County-to-state transition

What happens during TDCJ intake and classification

TDCJ’s May 2026 family guide explains that intake includes identification, health examinations, testing, interviews and classification decisions. These steps help determine housing, security supervision, job assignment and treatment needs.

County commitment and transport The sentencing county completes commitment records and coordinates transfer into state custody.
Identity processing TDCJ documents identity through photographs, fingerprinting and other identification procedures.
Health and needs screening Medical, dental, vision, mental-health and special-needs screening may occur during intake.
Education and background assessment Interviews and testing collect information about education, employment, family, substance use, military history and institutional experience.
Classification decision Assessment results help determine security level, housing, work, program and treatment assignments.
Initial unit assignment The person may move from intake to a permanent or program-specific unit. Later transfers remain possible.
Why families see a temporary “gap”: The county may stop showing the person after transfer while TDCJ intake and data publication are still being completed. Keep both county and court identifiers until the TDCJ record appears.
Read the May 2026 TDCJ family guide
Unit verification

Find the correct TDCJ unit address and telephone number

Copy the current unit name exactly Do not rely on memory. Several units have similar names, nearby locations or historical names.
Open the official TDCJ Unit Directory The directory identifies unit name, unit code, operator, gender, facility type, region, city and county. Open the official TDCJ Unit Directory
Open the individual unit page Verify the physical location, official phone, mailing information and facility type.
Separate the unit from service addresses The digital-mail processing center, Inmate Trust Fund and TDCJ headquarters are not visitation or inmate-pickup locations.
Check visitation status and privileges A current unit assignment does not automatically mean the inmate can receive a visit that day.
Call before a long trip Confirm the inmate remains at the unit and ask whether visitation or release plans changed.
Never mail ordinary personal correspondence to a unit without checking the current mail category. Most family letters, greeting cards and photographs go to the Digital Mail Processing Center. Legal mail and specified official or publisher correspondence use different routes.
Human assistance

Request TDCJ inmate information by email or telephone

Email request

TDCJ states that the public may request specific inmate information without a fee.

  • Include the inmate’s full legal name.
  • Include the current TDCJ number when known.
  • When unknown, provide the exact date of birth.
  • If the birth date is unknown, provide approximate age and county of conviction.
  • State exactly what information you need.
  • Put the inmate’s name in the email subject line.

pia@tdcj.texas.gov

Read the official email-request instructions

Telephone request

Prepare the TDCJ number, SID number or exact date of birth before calling.

  • General locator: 936-295-6371.
  • Toll-free locator: 800-535-0283.
  • Use published weekday business hours.
  • Write down the representative’s instructions.
  • Ask which office controls the next issue.

Read the official telephone-request page

Copy-ready inmate-information email
Subject: Inmate information request — [full legal name]Hello,I am requesting the following public inmate information for [full legal name], TDCJ number [number] and SID number [number, if known].Information requested: [current location / offense of conviction / current incarceration details / incarceration history / projected release information]If the TDCJ number is unavailable, the inmate’s exact date of birth is [date], approximate age is [age], and county of conviction is [county].Thank you.
After locating the inmate

Choose the correct next action from the verified result

Need the unit?

Copy the unit name and open the official Unit Directory.

Follow the unit workflow
Need to send money?

Verify approved-sender status and choose a TDCJ-authorized deposit route.

Review money options
Need to send a letter?

Use the Digital Mail Processing Center for ordinary personal correspondence.

Check the mail format
Need to receive calls?

Register the real telephone owner and use the exact TDCJ identifier.

Set up inmate calls
Need to visit?

Confirm the visitor list, relationship approval, unit schedule and visit type.

Schedule a visit
Need parole status?

Separate pre-vote review from post-vote release processing.

Read the parole workflow
Need release pickup?

Wait for scheduled release information and call the release location.

Use the release checklist
Urgent concern?

Use the medical, PREA, safety, OIG or Ombudsman route that fits the issue.

Open the urgent router
Trust Fund

Send money to a TDCJ inmate without using the wrong address or person

Approved-sender requirement: TDCJ states that only senders on the inmate’s approved visitor list or approved inmate telephone list may deposit money. Being on either approved list can qualify a sender.
TDCJ-published trust-fund deposit routes
Deposit route
Best for
Important preparation
Safety step
eCommDirect
Online deposit, direct commissary purchase or both.
Approved-sender name, inmate last name and TDCJ number.
Use only the Texas.gov TDCJ portal and save the receipt.
Money order or cashier’s check
Mail-based trust-fund deposit.
Official deposit slip and correct payable wording.
Do not send it to the inmate’s assigned unit or digital-mail address.
Monthly ACH debit
Recurring monthly deposit from a checking account.
Current TDCJ ACH authorization form.
Keep a copy and use the stop/change form when needed.
Access Corrections
Approved electronic vendor deposit.
Vendor account and correct inmate details.
Review the current vendor fee before submitting.
ACE Cash Express
An approved retail or vendor route.
Correct TDCJ and sender information.
Use TDCJ’s linked vendor instructions.
JPay or TouchPay
Other TDCJ-approved electronic deposit options.
Vendor account, inmate number and payment details.
Verify the inmate before confirming payment.
Mail deposit address:
Inmate Trust Fund
PO Box 60
Huntsville, TX 77342-0060
Telephone: 936-438-8990
Money orders or cashier’s checks require the official deposit slip. TDCJ states that cash and personal checks are not accepted. Deposits of $500 or more and specified check types may be held before inmate access is authorized.
Do not send a trust-fund deposit to: the inmate’s assigned unit, the Dallas digital-mail PO box, another inmate, a social-media contact or a person claiming they can secure release.
Review official Trust Fund options Open Trust Fund FAQ Open deposit instructions PDF
eCommDirect

Deposit money or purchase commissary items through eCommDirect

Confirm that you are an approved sender Your name must match the approved-sender information. The inmate must place you on the approved visitor list, or you must register on the approved telephone list.
Open the official Texas.gov portal Do not enter payment information on a copycat domain. Open official eCommDirect
Enter the sender and inmate details exactly Use your first and last name, the inmate’s last name and the requested TDCJ identifier.
Choose purchase, deposit or both A direct item purchase and a trust-fund deposit are different transactions. Read the cart carefully.
Check eligibility and remaining spend Custody status, commissary restriction, medical status, unit lockdown, recent intake and other rules can block direct purchases.
Review the current fee before paying The official TDCJ FAQ currently publishes transaction fees, but the checkout screen should control your final decision.
Print or screenshot the receipt Save the confirmation number, amount, date, inmate name, TDCJ number and payment method.

Published eCommDirect item-purchase limits

January–March

Up to $70 in eligible direct purchases.

April–June

Up to $70 in eligible direct purchases.

July–September

Up to $70 in eligible direct purchases.

October–December

Up to $95 for the holiday spending period.

These are combined inmate limits for eligible direct merchandise purchases during each quarter—not a separate limit for every sender. Deposits into the trust fund are different from direct merchandise spending.

Why an eCommDirect order may be blocked

Newly received inmate TDCJ states that a newly received inmate may not become eligible for direct purchases until the next calendar quarter.
Commissary restriction The inmate cannot receive a direct purchase while the restriction remains active.
Unit lockdown A full or partial lockdown can interrupt purchase eligibility and delivery.
Custody or housing status Certain custody, restrictive-housing, death-row and medical statuses are not eligible.
One-purchase-per-day rule Another person may already have completed a purchase for the inmate that day.
Browser lockout or timeout Using the back button or exceeding the portal time limit can temporarily block another purchase attempt.
eCommDirect help:
Telephone: 936-438-8990
Email: ecommdirect@tdcj.texas.gov
Open official eCommDirect Read official eCommDirect FAQ
Digital personal mail

Address ordinary TDCJ personal mail correctly

TDCJ uses a Digital Mail Processing Center for most personal correspondence. Mail is sorted, scanned and uploaded to the inmate’s secure tablet. An inmate without a tablet receives black-and-white printed copies.

Personal mail address

Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Inmate’s Full First and Last Name + TDCJ Number
PO Box 660400
Dallas, TX 75266-0400
Use the inmate’s complete first and last name
Copy the correct TDCJ number clearly
Use one inmate per envelope
Include the sender’s full return address
Use ordinary paper and a simple envelope
Keep a photograph of important outgoing mail
Do not include money or payment instruments
Check the current correspondence rules before unusual content
Copy-ready envelope format
Texas Department of Criminal Justice [Inmate's Full First and Last Name] [TDCJ Number] PO Box 660400 Dallas, TX 75266-0400

Mail that can be rejected or delayed

Missing identity

Incomplete inmate name or incorrect TDCJ number can prevent delivery.

Money or prohibited contents

Do not place cash, checks, gift cards, money orders or unauthorized items in personal mail.

Wrong destination

Do not send legal mail, publisher shipments or packages to the personal digital-mail address without checking the category.

Digital-mail customer service questions may be directed to Securus at 800-844-6591.
Verify the current digital-mail address Read the digital-mail FAQ
Mail-category router

Personal mail, legal mail, books, business documents and packages follow different routes

Confirm the category before placing anything in the mail
Mail type
Published route
What to verify
Frequent mistake
Family and friend letter
Digital Mail Processing Center
Full name, TDCJ number and Dallas PO box.
Sending it to an old unit address.
Greeting card or photograph
Digital Mail Processing Center
Current content, size and correspondence restrictions.
Adding prohibited material or missing the inmate number.
Legal mail
Assigned unit
Current unit, legal-mail status and complete professional return information.
Sending legal mail to the personal digital-mail PO box.
Document needing inmate signature
Unit law library under the published process
Current unit and document-handling instructions first.
Treating it as an ordinary family letter.
Media or special mail
Assigned unit
Whether the sender qualifies for the protected category.
Merely labeling an ordinary letter “legal” or “media.”
Business or agency correspondence
Assigned unit when it fits TDCJ’s published category
Organization identity, unit and correspondence purpose.
Using a unit address for ordinary personal correspondence.
Books, magazines or newspapers
Unit through a qualifying publisher, supplier, bookstore or online bookseller
New-condition, softback and content requirements.
Mailing a personal used book or personal package.
Personal package
Generally not permitted unless part of an approved program
The exact official program before purchasing.
Using an unapproved package vendor.
TDCJ’s 2026 family guide states that new softback publications and newspapers may be sent directly only by qualifying publishers, publication suppliers, bookstores or online booksellers, subject to review. Personal packages are not permitted merely because an online retailer accepts the order.
Do not operate a social-media account as though it is personally maintained by the inmate. TDCJ’s family guide distinguishes third-party discussion about an inmate from helping an inmate maintain or appear to maintain an active social-media account.
Calls, tablets and messages

Register for TDCJ inmate calls and solve common communication problems

Confirm the inmate’s TDCJ number Search and verify the person before registering your number.
Register the telephone number Use the official Texas inmate telephone enrollment site or call the registration line. Open Texas Prison Phone registration
Use the actual phone owner’s information The registrant’s identification and phone ownership details must meet the published verification rules.
Choose the applicable payment arrangement TDCJ publishes collect calls, friends-and-family prepaid accounts and inmate telephone prepaid debit accounts.
Follow the call-use rules Do not forward calls, make a three-way call or allow an unapproved adult to participate.
Check account, approval and unit status when calls stop A balance, registration, calling-list, custody, disciplinary, equipment or unit issue may be responsible.
Registration telephone

866-806-7804

TDCJ Inmate Technology

offenderphones@tdcj.texas.gov

Securus general support

800-844-6591

Current TDCJ telephone rules worth knowing

Eligible calls are limited to 30 minutes
A warning is provided shortly before disconnection
Calls may be available during published daily hours unless conditions change
Calls except attorney-of-record calls are subject to monitoring and recording
The registered person must be at least 18
Three-way calling and forwarding are prohibited
Internet services, businesses, pay phones and international numbers are not accepted
Tablet calling hours and inmate eligibility may differ
Assume communications are monitored. Do not discuss disputed facts, witnesses, evidence, passwords, contraband, escape, threats or confidential legal strategy through ordinary prison calls, e-messages, video visits or personal mail.
Written technology complaint address:
TDCJ – Information Technology Division
Inmate Technology Services Contract Manager
PO Box 4016
Huntsville, TX 77342-4016
Open Inmate Technology Services Submit the official technology form
Visitation portal

Get approved and schedule the correct TDCJ visit

The inmate—not the visitor—initiates placement on the approved Visitors List. TDCJ states that the list is generally limited to ten adults. Completing an online account does not automatically place you on the inmate’s list.
Confirm the current unit and visitation privileges Search again before registering or scheduling.
Confirm the inmate has submitted you for the Visitors List The inmate supplies the proposed visitor’s name, address, phone and relationship.
Open the TDCJ Online Visitation Portal TDCJ states that portal use is restricted to residents of the United States, Canada and Mexico. Open the official visitation portal
Create one account using a stable email Check for the TDCJ verification email and copy the access key exactly.
Complete the visitor profile and background questions Use information that matches your identification and visitor-list record.
Add the correct inmate and relationship Use the TDCJ or SID number when possible and select the accurate relationship.
Wait for the unit to approve the relationship “Pending” is not the same as approved. Do not travel until the relationship and visit are confirmed.
Select the correct visit type, date and time Some specialized units, medical facilities, mental-health facilities and death-row visits require direct unit coordination.
Check the portal, unit schedule and cancellations again TDCJ advises visitors to call the unit for final confirmation before travel.
Open visitation scheduling Read account setup instructions Review current visitation rules
Before driving

Use this TDCJ visit-day checklist to avoid a wasted trip

Search the inmate again and confirm the current unit
Confirm the inmate currently has visitation privileges
Confirm you are an approved visitor
Verify the visit date, time and visit type
Check unit-wide cancellations and lockdown status
Call the unit before a long drive
Bring current government-issued photo identification
Wear conservative clothing and keep a backup outfit in the vehicle
Remove prohibited items from your person and vehicle
Arrive early enough for entry and search procedures
Coordinate with other approved visitors because one visit per weekend generally applies
Do not leave children unattended in a vehicle

Clothing and carry-in rules that commonly cause problems

Clothing
  • Shirts and shoes are required.
  • Transparent clothing is not allowed.
  • Sleeveless clothing must cover the shoulders.
  • Shorts and skirts must satisfy the published length rule.
  • Visitors may not wear all white.
  • Offensive words or images are not allowed.
Commonly allowed
  • Small wallet or change purse.
  • No more than $35 in coins.
  • One debit or credit card.
  • Limited infant supplies in a clear bag.
  • Current approved identification.
Leave outside
  • Paper cash.
  • Cell phones and chargers.
  • Smartwatches, laptops and cameras.
  • Tobacco and vaping products.
  • Weapons, drugs and contraband.
  • Purses, toys and unnecessary property.
Visitors who arrive more than 15 minutes after a scheduled visit may not be admitted. All visits end by the published closing time even if a late start is accommodated.
Weekend Ombudsman Visitation Hotline:
844-476-1289
Published hours: Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Visits may be terminated and a visitor may be removed from the Visitors List for improper conduct. TDCJ publishes a 14-day written appeal deadline to the Director’s Review Committee after the removal notice.
Remote connection

Compare TDCJ tablet and Securus remote video visitation

Remote visit options depend on the inmate, unit and current program availability
Visit type
Published duration
Published cost
How to arrange it
Tablet video visitation
60 minutes
No cost where available
Use the TDCJ portal or current unit process for eligible inmates and facilities.
Securus remote video visitation
60 minutes
$10 where applicable
Create the required Securus profile and schedule only after relationship approval.
In-person contact or non-contact visit
Depends on the scheduled visit and unit rules
No admission fee
Use the TDCJ Online Visitation Portal or direct unit instructions.
TDCJ states that eligible tablet and remote video visits are in addition to applicable in-person contact or non-contact visits and do not count against the number of in-person visits.
Remote-video availability is facility-specific and can change. Check the current official unit list rather than relying on an old social-media post or screenshot.
Securus remote-video help: 877-578-3658
Check current remote-video units Review current visit options
Parole review

Separate parole eligibility, review, voting and release processing

Parole eligibility does not mean approval. It identifies when parole consideration may become possible under the offense date, conviction and sentence. The Board has discretion over parole decisions.
Case identification TDCJ Parole Division identifies cases before initial eligibility and later review dates.
Notice and file preparation Trial officials, victims and qualifying victim family members may receive notice. An Institutional Parole Officer prepares a case summary.
Interview and information collection The offender may be interviewed. Support, protest and victim information may be considered under applicable rules.
Three-member panel review A majority of two votes is required for a final decision. A third voter participates when the first two votes differ.
Decision notice A denial normally includes a future review date when another review applies. An approval may contain programs, dates and special conditions.
Release planning and audit A favorable vote is followed by residence, program, certificate, records-audit and release-scheduling work. It is not an immediate gate release.

Before the Board votes

Use the Board of Pardons and Paroles status line.

844-512-0461

Prepare the legal name, TDCJ number, SID number and review information.

After a favorable release vote

Use the TDCJ Parole Division release-status line.

512-406-5202

TDCJ states that a TDCJ number, SID number or date of birth is required.

Read the official parole-review process Open Texas BPP
Vote-code decoder

Understand common Texas parole panel voting codes

Read the complete official vote—not only the first letters
Vote
Plain-English meaning
What may still be required
Next action
FI-1
Release when eligible.
Release certificate, audit, residence and scheduling steps.
Check post-vote release status.
FI-2
Release on a specified future month or date.
Continued eligibility and release processing.
Record the date and monitor for scheduled release details.
FI-3R / FI-4R / FI-6R / FI-7R / FI-9R / FI-18R
Transfer to or complete a specified rehabilitation or treatment program before release.
Program placement, completion, residence approval and audit.
Identify the exact program and earliest applicable release timing.
FI-5 / FI-6
Program-based approval involving therapeutic, DWI or aftercare programming.
Successful completion and approved aftercare plan.
Track program status rather than assuming an immediate release date.
RMS
Release to mandatory supervision.
Release processing and supervision arrangements.
Confirm the scheduled release date and location.
NR
Parole denied and a next review date established.
Wait for the specified review cycle.
Record the month/year and prepare for the next review.
SA
Serve all, subject to any applicable mandatory-supervision consideration.
Sentence and release calculations continue to control.
Review the maximum and projected release fields.
DMS
Mandatory-supervision release denied with another review date.
Future review or sentence discharge.
Record the new mandatory-supervision review date.
The Board states that an approval vote can be withdrawn if new information is received. Always rely on the current official status and scheduled release details.
Open the complete official vote-code list
Release-day planning

Confirm the scheduled release date and pickup location before traveling

A projected release date is not a pickup appointment. Wait until the offender detail shows scheduled release information, then verify it with the releasing location.
Confirm the scheduled release date—not only projected release
Confirm the scheduled release location
Confirm the inmate is still scheduled for release
Ask what identification the person picking up must carry
Ask for the expected release window
Check whether any hold or detainer affects release
Confirm the approved residence or parole plan when applicable
Prepare transportation without entering restricted unit property early
Reconfirm on the day of travel
Have a backup plan for delays or last-minute changes

What TDCJ publishes about transportation and release

Family pickup

A qualifying friend or family member may arrange pickup at the releasing site, subject to contact restrictions and current instructions.

Bus transportation

TDCJ states that many released inmates receive transportation assistance or a bus voucher based on the release arrangement.

Regional release sites

The release location may differ from the inmate’s current housing unit. Use the scheduled release-location field.

TDCJ publishes weekday release operations and warns that scheduled releases may change. Certain inmates, detainer cases and special-supervision cases may be released through designated locations.
Copy-ready release verification call
Hello, I am calling to verify the scheduled release of [full legal name], TDCJ number [number].The public result currently shows a scheduled release date of [date] and release location of [location].Can you confirm: 1. The release is still scheduled; 2. The correct pickup location; 3. The expected release time window; 4. The identification required for pickup; 5. Whether any hold, detainer, transportation or supervision issue could change the plan?
Review official release and family guidance Read release-processing FAQ
Urgent problem router

Use the correct TDCJ contact for medical, safety, PREA or criminal concerns

Immediate danger: Call the inmate’s assigned unit and clearly state that the matter involves an immediate threat to health or safety. Provide the inmate’s full name, TDCJ number, unit, location when known, factual concern and the time the information was received.
Do not send every problem to the same office
Concern
Correct starting route
Useful information to prepare
Official contact
Medical care or medication
Assigned unit and Patient Liaison Program
Name, TDCJ number, unit, condition, symptoms, dates and known treatment issue.
936-437-4271
Medical written inquiry
TDCJ health-services email route
Factual concern without unnecessary public disclosure.
health.services@tdcj.texas.gov
Sexual abuse or sexual harassment
PREA Ombudsman
Inmate, unit, date, people involved, witnesses and immediate risk.
936-437-2133
Non-medical, non-criminal unresolved issue
Unit first, then Independent Ombudsman
Incident facts, grievance number, prior contacts and requested resolution.
833-598-2700
Possible criminal conduct
TDCJ Office of Inspector General
Facts, dates, names, unit, evidence location and immediate safety risk.
oig@tdcj.texas.gov
Unwanted inmate calls or victim safety
Victim Services Division
Phone number, call dates, inmate identity and safety concern.
800-848-4284
PREA Ombudsman
PO Box 99
Huntsville, TX 77342-0099
Telephone: 936-437-2133
Email: prea.ombudsman@tdcj.texas.gov
Submit a PREA concern Submit an Ombudsman request
Problem resolution

Escalate a TDCJ problem in the right order

Document the issue Save dates, unit, names, messages, transaction numbers, mail tracking, visit confirmation and the specific result requested.
Contact the office that owns the service Unit administration handles unit matters; eCommDirect handles its transactions; Inmate Technology handles calls and tablets.
Ask the inmate to use the grievance process when appropriate TDCJ publishes a two-step grievance process: Step 1 at unit level and Step 2 for central administrative review.
Preserve grievance and response numbers The Ombudsman form asks whether a grievance was filed and requests the grievance number when available.
Escalate unresolved non-criminal and non-medical issues Submit a factual inquiry to the Independent Ombudsman after reasonable unit-level resolution efforts, except where imminent safety or rights concerns justify faster escalation.
Use the specialized route for medical, PREA or criminal conduct The Independent Ombudsman does not replace Health Services, the PREA Ombudsman or the Office of Inspector General.
Office of the Independent Ombudsman
PO Box 99
Huntsville, TX 77342-0099
Telephone: 936-437-5620
Toll-free: 833-598-2700
Email: io@tdcj.texas.gov
Copy-ready factual complaint outline
Inmate: [full legal name] TDCJ number: [number] Current unit: [unit] Incident date: [date] Service or department involved: [unit / mail / visitation / technology / classification / other] Prior contacts: [dates, names and responses] Grievance number: [number, if applicable]Factual concern: [Briefly state what occurred in date order.]Current risk or impact: [Explain any health, safety, legal, access or time-sensitive impact.]Requested resolution: [State the specific action or information requested.]Supporting records: [List receipts, screenshots, letters, notices, tracking or other proof.]
Classification and records

Handle time-calculation questions and hardship-transfer requests

Time calculation concern

The inmate may use the official Time Dispute Resolution process when the sentence calculation is believed to be incorrect.

Family or public questions may be directed to:

TDCJ Classification and Records Department
PO Box 99
Huntsville, TX 77342

Telephone: 936-437-6231

Email: classify@tdcj.texas.gov

Hardship transfer request

Special consideration may be requested when an immediate family member on the approved Visitors List has a documented medical inability to travel long distances.

Send the written request and a signed, verifiable medical-provider letter on official letterhead to:

TDCJ Classification and Records Department
Attention: OCIM
PO Box 99
Huntsville, TX 77342
A hardship request does not guarantee transfer. TDCJ assigns inmates based on classification, safety, bed space, medical, treatment, programming, security and operational needs—not only family convenience.
Victim information and safety

Use victim-specific notification services instead of relying only on public search

The public offender search can help verify a person’s identity and status, but statutory victims and eligible family members may need direct registration with TDCJ Victim Services for notices and safety planning.

Notification registration

Ask about letter, email, text or other available notification options for the specific case.

Parole participation

Eligible victims may submit information and request processes available under Texas parole rules.

Safety planning

Victim Services can help with release-related safety concerns and unwanted inmate contact.

TDCJ Victim Services Division
Telephone: 800-848-4284
Email: victim.svc@tdcj.texas.gov
Do not publish a victim’s address, release plan, private contact details or safety information in a public comment, social-media post or inmate message.
Open TDCJ Victim Services Review safety-planning help
Former and historical inmates

Find incarceration history after current TDCJ custody ends

Search the current name and SID number Confirm whether the person still appears in the current offender system.
Search previous TDCJ numbers The official previous-number portal accepts a name or full or partial former TDCJ number. Open previous-number search
Request incarceration history by email TDCJ publishes a no-charge email route for incarceration history, conviction and location information.
Use the sentencing court for the legal outcome A prison record does not replace the judgment, appellate mandate, discharge order or other controlling court document.
Use archival sources for older Texas prison records Texas State Library and Archives Commission resources may be necessary for historical records outside current online systems.
Use a precise public-information request only when needed Identify the record type, date range, inmate, unit and purpose rather than requesting “everything.”
TDCJ states that photographs and Social Security numbers are not provided through the ordinary public inmate-information email service.
Request incarceration information Read the Texas corrections history guide
High-value family tips

Practical habits that prevent the most common TDCJ mistakes

Screenshot carefully

Save a result for your records, but write the verification date on it. Never treat an old image as current custody proof.

Keep addresses separate

Store personal mail, legal mail, Trust Fund and unit addresses as separate contacts.

Use the TDCJ number

Once verified, search and complete services with the official state identifier instead of repeatedly relying on a name.

Save every confirmation

Keep payment, visit, phone, mail and complaint confirmations until the issue is fully resolved.

Bring backup clothing

Leave a conservative backup outfit in the vehicle for visitation dress-code problems.

Coordinate weekend visits

Approved visitors should coordinate because an inmate is generally limited to one visit per weekend.

Do not pay release promises

No private caller can “bond out” a sentenced TDCJ inmate or guarantee parole for a fee.

Ask for the owning office

When an employee cannot solve the issue, ask which department controls the record or service.

Write down every call

Record date, time, number called, office, representative and instruction provided.

Contact directory

Save the TDCJ contact that matches the problem

Inmate Locator / General Information

936-295-6371
800-535-0283

Location and general inmate-information routing.

Public Inmate Information Email

pia@tdcj.texas.gov

Location, conviction, incarceration history and release-information requests.

Pre-Vote Parole Status

844-512-0461

Board review status before a favorable release vote.

Post-Vote Release Status

512-406-5202

Parole Division status after a favorable release vote.

Inmate Trust Fund / eCommDirect

936-438-8990
ecommdirect@tdcj.texas.gov

Deposits, receipts and eCommDirect questions.

Phone Registration

866-806-7804

Registration for eligible inmate telephone calls.

Inmate Technology Services

offenderphones@tdcj.texas.gov

Calls, tablets, e-messaging and vendor-service complaints.

Securus General Support

800-844-6591

Account, digital mail and communication support.

Securus Video Visit Support

877-578-3658

Remote-video technical problems.

Weekend Visitation Hotline

844-476-1289

Basic visit policy, unit liaison and denial-appeal guidance.

Patient Liaison Program

936-437-4271

Family and public health-care inquiries during business hours.

Independent Ombudsman

833-598-2700
io@tdcj.texas.gov

Unresolved non-criminal and non-medical TDCJ concerns.

PREA Ombudsman

936-437-2133
prea.ombudsman@tdcj.texas.gov

Sexual-abuse and sexual-harassment concerns.

Classification and Records

936-437-6231
classify@tdcj.texas.gov

Time-calculation and classification questions.

Victim Services Division

800-848-4284
victim.svc@tdcj.texas.gov

Victim notifications, safety planning and unwanted-contact concerns.

Reentry Hotline

877-887-6151

Reentry resources and employment assistance.

Telephone hours, staffing, forms and routing can change. Confirm the current contact page before sending sensitive documents or relying on a deadline.
Statewide agency reference

Map reference for TDCJ in Huntsville—not an inmate pickup or visitation address

TDCJ is a statewide system with many separate units and release locations. This map is only a general agency-location reference. Use the inmate’s official unit result and Unit Directory for visits, legal mail, unit calls or pickup planning.

Do not travel to this map location to visit or pick up an inmate. Confirm the current unit or scheduled release location first.
Find the assigned TDCJ unit
Related Texas guides

Continue with the guide that matches the record you need

Texas prison inmate search

Compare TDCJ state prison, federal BOP and county-jail searches.

Open Texas prison search guide
Texas Department of Corrections history

Find current, previous and historical Texas corrections records.

Open corrections records guide
Arrests.org verification guide

Learn why a private mugshot or arrest listing must be checked against official jail and court records.

Open arrest-record verification guide
Texas Arrests.org guide

Verify Texas arrest and mugshot information before treating a record as current.

Open the Texas guide
Correction or removal request

Use the site’s process when a Texas-Arrests.org page contains an editorial error or removal concern.

Open removal policy
Site disclaimer

Review the independent-site, public-record and legal-use limitations.

Read the disclaimer
Official action resources

Use these verified official pages for live tasks

Current Offender Search

Search current TDCJ or SID information and view offender details.

Open official search
Previous TDCJ Number Search

Search by name or full or partial previous TDCJ number.

Search previous numbers
Inmate Information Hub

Access TDCJ search, email, phone, mail, family and service information.

Open inmate-information hub
Unit Directory

Verify the current unit’s official city, county, type, code and contact page.

Open unit directory
eCommDirect

Make eligible deposits and direct commissary purchases.

Open eCommDirect
Trust Fund

Review approved deposit options, sender rules and mailing instructions.

Open Trust Fund page
Digital Mail

Verify the current personal-mail address and exceptions.

Open digital-mail page
Inmate Technology Services

Review calls, e-messaging, tablets and video visitation.

Open technology services
Visitation

Verify visitor preparation, ID, clothing and allowed-item rules.

Open visitation page
Online Visitation Portal

Create an account, link the relationship and schedule eligible visits.

Open visitation portal
Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles

Review parole processes, decisions, policies and official contacts.

Open BPP
Independent Ombudsman

Escalate unresolved non-medical and non-criminal TDCJ concerns.

Open Ombudsman page
TDCJ inmate search FAQ

Questions families ask after searching for a Texas inmate

What is the current official TDCJ offender search?

Use the official TDCJ current-offender search at the Texas Integrated Victim Services System. It accepts a legal name, SID number or current TDCJ number and provides a separate route for previous TDCJ numbers.

Why does the old TDCJ inmate-search link sometimes behave differently?

TDCJ has both legacy inmate-information resources and a newer offender-search environment. Use a link reached through the official TDCJ domain, and use the current IVSS search when the older portal does not load.

How quickly does a new TDCJ inmate appear?

The public result is not real-time. County transport, intake, identification, medical screening, classification and data processing can create a gap. Search the county record, save the court identifiers and recheck TDCJ.

Can I search with only part of a name or number?

Yes. The official current portal explains wildcard searching with an asterisk. Examples include Rich*, *son and *123*.

What should I do when I have an old TDCJ number?

Use the separate Previous TDCJ Number Search. It accepts an offender name or a full or partial previous TDCJ number.

Is a SID number the same as a TDCJ number?

No. The SID is a state identification number. The TDCJ number is the corrections identifier used in TDCJ services. Both can be useful for searching, but individual service portals may require the TDCJ number.

Why does one official form ask for seven digits and another ask for eight?

Some TDCJ guidance uses a seven-digit description while certain newer forms display an eight-digit entry field. Copy the number exactly from the official offender record and follow the specific portal’s displayed format rather than guessing.

Can I send a personal letter to the inmate’s unit?

Most ordinary personal letters, greeting cards and photos go to the Digital Mail Processing Center in Dallas. Legal mail, media correspondence, specified business correspondence and verified publisher shipments follow separate unit-routing rules.

Why can I not find an inmate in eCommDirect?

The sender may not be approved, the identifier may be wrong, the inmate may be newly received, ineligible, restricted, on a unit lockdown or already connected to a purchase that day. Save the error message and contact eCommDirect rather than repeatedly paying.

Can a newly received inmate receive an eCommDirect package?

TDCJ’s eCommDirect FAQ states that newly received inmates are not eligible for direct merchandise purchases until the next calendar quarter. Trust-fund deposits and direct purchases are different transactions.

How long does eCommDirect delivery take?

TDCJ states that eligible direct merchandise is generally delivered within five business days after TDCJ receives the transaction details, although security, staffing or unit conditions can override that period.

Can I see the inmate’s Trust Fund balance?

No. TDCJ states that account activity and balance information are confidential and are not released to outside callers. Trust Fund staff may verify a sender’s own deposit.

Can TDCJ inmates receive unlimited telephone calls?

Eligible inmates may have access to the approved telephone system, but calls remain subject to registration, inmate eligibility, unit conditions, monitoring and the published 30-minute call limit.

Are attorney calls recorded?

TDCJ states that ordinary calls are monitored and recorded except calls to the attorney of record. Attorneys should follow the official professional-contact process rather than assuming an ordinary family phone account is confidential.

Can a person visit without being on the approved Visitors List?

Generally no. The inmate must request placement of the visitor on the approved list. The visitor then completes the applicable portal and relationship-approval steps before scheduling.

How many people can visit a TDCJ inmate?

TDCJ’s family guide generally describes two adults for a regular visit, while children under 18 are not counted in that adult number and must be accompanied by an approved adult. Space, child supervision and special approvals can affect the final number.

Can a former inmate visit someone in TDCJ?

TDCJ’s family guide states that previously incarcerated people, unless immediate family, generally cannot visit for 24 months after release. Confirm any exception or approval with the unit.

Does an FI parole vote mean immediate release?

No. An FI vote can require a future date, treatment program, aftercare, approved residence, certificate, records audit and release scheduling. Use the post-vote release-status line and wait for scheduled release details.

What if the inmate’s projected release date looks wrong?

The inmate may use the Time Dispute Resolution process. Family or public questions may be directed to TDCJ Classification and Records with the inmate’s identity, sentence information and specific calculation concern.

Can I request a transfer closer to family?

A documented hardship request may receive special consideration when an immediate family member on the approved Visitors List has a medical inability to travel long distances. Approval is not guaranteed.

Accuracy, legal-use and editorial notice

This guide explains public TDCJ processes in plain language. It is not legal advice, a consumer report, a promise of release, a substitute for an attorney or an official custody record.

Do not use this page or a TDCJ search result to harass, threaten, impersonate, discriminate against or expose private information about an inmate, victim, family member, employee or visitor. Do not use this page as an employment, housing, credit, insurance, licensing or tenant-screening report.

A prison record identifies custody and sentence information; it does not explain every court filing, appeal, disciplinary event, medical condition or release condition. Obtain the controlling official record for consequential decisions.

Official TDCJ, Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, Texas.gov and TDCJ family-guide information reviewed July 18, 2026. Rules, fees, phone hours, addresses, eligibility, facility status and vendor processes may change after publication.