What you can bring

Cash

$100 per adult / $50 per minor — dollar bills, dollar coins, and quarters only, according to CDCR's statewide visitor-items page. Facility-specific exceptions are not guaranteed; confirm before a long drive.

Allowed without prior approval

• Small clear plastic purse or bag, roughly 6"x8"
• Two keys on a ring, no other attachments
• Valid photo ID
• Non-metallic comb or brush
• A small unopened pack of tissues
• Prescription glasses
• Up to 10 photographs (max 8"x10", no Polaroids) — these stay with you, not the incarcerated person
• Up to 10 pages of documents (max 8.5"x11") — staff will read these

Baby items

Up to 2 sealed formula bottles, 3 sealed baby food containers, 1 plastic spoon, 6 disposable diapers, 1 sealed wipes pack, 1 change of clothes, 1 small blanket, 2 small searchable toys, 1 transparent pacifier, a burp cloth, and a carrier.

Medical items

Life-sustaining medication, mobility devices, and medically necessary items are allowed with documentation from a doctor — name, address, phone, and license number, updated every 2 years.

Religious items and service animals

Religious clothing is allowed even where otherwise restricted, though it may need private inspection first. Service animals are allowed with basic identifying documentation and must clear the metal detector.