When someone you love transfers from LA County Jail to California state prison, you’re entering a complex system that operates very differently from county facilities.

State prison differs fundamentally from county jail. State prisons house people convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding one year and are managed by CDCR rather than local sheriffs. The transfer process typically takes 4.5-5 months from sentencing to permanent placement, during which communication is limited but available through weekly phone calls.

CDCR operates 34 adult institutions across California, and while family location is considered during classification, inmates can be placed anywhere in the state based on security level, programs, and bed availability. All audio phone calls from state prisons have been free since January 1, 2023, but visiting requires pre-approval through a background check process taking 4-6 weeks.

Finding an inmate in the CDCR system

The first step for any family is locating their loved one within the state prison system. CDCR provides a free online tool called the California Incarcerated Records and Information Search (CIRIS) at ciris.mt.cdcr.ca.gov that allows you to search for inmates using either their last name or CDCR number (the six-digit identification number assigned when entering state custody). For common names, you may need to provide a date of birth to narrow results. The system displays the inmate’s current location, CDCR number, age, admission date, and commitment counties.

CDCR does not notify families of transfers or movements—this is solely the inmate’s responsibility. Check CIRIS regularly to track location changes, especially during the initial reception period when inmates move from the reception center to their permanent institution. For phone assistance, contact the California Inmate Identification Unit at (916) 445-6713, available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Pacific Time.

Note that CIRIS only shows individuals currently in CDCR custody. If you cannot locate someone, they may still be in county jail awaiting transfer, have been released, or transferred to another jurisdiction. For county jail inmates, contact the specific county jail directly.

State prisons commonly housing LA County inmates

Several California state prisons regularly receive inmates from Los Angeles County, with proximity to LA families being a key consideration. These facilities range from 35 minutes to 3.5 hours from downtown Los Angeles.

California Institution for Men (CIM) – Chino

Distance from LA: 34-35 miles (35-45 minutes, up to 1 hour with traffic)

Located in Chino and established in 1941, CIM is California’s fourth state prison and one of the most accessible facilities for LA families. The institution houses approximately 3,500 male inmates across four separate facilities under one warden, with security levels ranging from Level I (minimum) to Medium/Maximum custody.

Facility B serves as a reception center processing inmates from Orange, Riverside, San Diego, and San Bernardino counties, including transfers from Pitchess Detention Center in LA County. Many LA County inmates pass through CIM for initial intake. Facility D houses California’s largest Level I population with approximately 2,000 inmates in open dormitories. Facility C houses many inmates serving life sentences, while Facility A focuses on medium-level programming.

Contact Information:

Main Switchboard: (909) 597-1821
Visiting Sergeant: (909) 597-1821 Ext. 4186
Physical Address: 14901 Central Avenue, Chino, CA 91710

Mailing Addresses (vary by facility):

Facility A (WEST): P.O. Box 368, Chino, CA 91708
Facility B (Reception Center): P.O. Box 441, Chino, CA 91708
Facility C (EAST): P.O. Box 500, Chino, CA 91708
Facility D: P.O. Box 600, Chino, CA 91708

Visiting Hours:

Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:45 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:45 PM
Walk-in visits accepted Friday 2:00-6:00 PM, Saturday/Sunday 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
Maximum 5 visitors per inmate at one time

Schedule visits through the Visitation Scheduling Application (VSA) online or contact the Visiting Sergeant. CIM offers both regular contact visits and extended family visiting (overnight visits approximately 46 consecutive hours for eligible inmates).

Special Programs: CIM houses a groundbreaking Prison Graduation Initiative partnership with Cal State LA, featuring the first on-site college campus at a California state prison. Students can earn Bachelor of Arts degrees in Communication or Liberal Studies, with 50+ BA degrees awarded since 2016. The facility also operates the internationally recognized Leonard Greenstone Marine Technology Training Center providing deep-sea diver training, and maintains extensive substance abuse treatment programs including the Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) program.

California Institution for Women (CIW) – Chino/Corona

Distance from LA: 40-45 miles (approximately 1 hour)

Located at 16756 Chino-Corona Road in Corona (physically in Chino following a 2003 annexation), CIW is California’s primary and oldest women’s prison, opened in 1952 after relocating from Tehachapi following the Kern County earthquake. Until 1987, it was the only women’s prison in California. The facility houses approximately 987 female inmates across all custody levels (primarily Level I and Level III) at 77% of design capacity.

Contact Information:

Main Switchboard: (909) 597-1772
Visiting Desk: (909) 597-1771 ext. 5560
Mailing Address: 16756 Chino-Corona Road, Corona, CA 92880

Visiting Hours:

Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:45 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 2:45 PM
Sunday: 8:30 AM – 2:45 PM
Holidays: New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas (8:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
Walk-in visits currently accepted in addition to scheduled visits

Special Programs: CIW serves as the hub institution for female firefighter training, providing selection and physical fitness preparation for conservation camp placement. The facility offers comprehensive academic programs through partnerships with Chaffey College, Coastline Community College, Palo Verde College, Feather River College (Associate degrees), and Adam’s State University (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees). Additional programs include The Last Mile Coding Program for computer training, cosmetology, the Alpha Faith-Based Re-entry Program, Prison Puppy Program, and Arts-in-Corrections. CIW is accredited by The Joint Commission for Ambulatory Care, Behavioral Health Care, and Nursing Care Center Programs.

California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC) – Lancaster

Distance from LA: 70 miles (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes via CA-14)

Located in Lancaster in the Antelope Valley, LAC is the first and only state prison physically located within Los Angeles County. Opened in 1993, the facility houses approximately 2,700-2,900 male inmates across multiple security levels (Level I minimum, Level III, and Level IV maximum). LAC is not a reception center—it houses classified inmates who have completed the reception process.

Contact Information:

Main Switchboard: (661) 729-2000
Visiting Desk: (661) 729-2000 ext. 5406
Physical Address: 44750 60th Street West, Lancaster, CA 93536-7620

Mailing Addresses (vary by facility):

Facility A & ASU: P.O. Box 4430, Lancaster, CA 93539-4430
Facility B: P.O. Box 4490, Lancaster, CA 93539-4490
Facility C: P.O. Box 4610, Lancaster, CA 93539-4610
Facility D: P.O. Box 4670, Lancaster, CA 93539-4670
Minimum Support Facility: P.O. Box 4730, Lancaster, CA 93539-4730
Money Orders: P.O. Box 8487, Lancaster, CA 93539-8487
Legal Mail: P.O. Box 8457, Lancaster, CA 93539-8457

Visiting Schedule:

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Minimum 2-hour visits
Arrive at least 1 hour prior to scheduled visit time

Schedule through the Visitation Scheduling Application (VSA) online or via email at LACVideoVisiting@cdcr.ca.gov when required by facility. Up to 5 approved visitors per incarcerated person.

Special Characteristics: LAC is built to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and houses inmates meeting Disability Placement Program (DPP) criteria. The facility serves as a medical hub for Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) services and EOP Administrative Segregation healthcare, with a dedicated Correctional Treatment Center. The Progressive Programming Facility on Facility A (established 2000) promotes an environment free from violence, drugs, and disruptive behavior. Notable programs include the Paws-For-Life Dog Training Program, extensive vocational training (computer technologies, plumbing, electronics, masonry), and Prison Industry Authority operations manufacturing soap and cleaning products.

Wasco State Prison – Reception Center (WSP)

Distance from LA: 115 miles (approximately 2 hours)

Located in Wasco between LA and Bakersfield, WSP serves as the primary reception center for 11 Southern California counties, making it the facility where most LA County inmates are initially processed. The facility houses approximately 3,667 male inmates (above design capacity) with a primary mission of short-term housing for processing, classification, and evaluation.

Contact Information:

Main Phone: (661) 758-8400
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 8800, Wasco, CA 93280
Physical Address: 701 Scofield Avenue, Wasco, CA 93280

Visiting Hours:

Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Holidays

Schedule through VPASS online system. Important for LA families: The high volume of LA County inmates during reception/intake means many families will visit this facility during the initial 90-day classification period, though visiting during reception is limited to behind-glass non-contact visits by appointment only.

Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) – San Diego

Distance from LA: 135 miles (approximately 2-2.5 hours via I-5)

Located in San Diego near the Mexico border (1.5 miles from the border), RJD is the only state prison in San Diego County and one of the most accessible facilities for LA families traveling south. The multi-mission institution houses approximately 4,000+ male inmates across all security levels (Level I through IV), including two Sensitive Needs Yards.

Contact Information:

Main Phone: (619) 661-6500
Physical Address: 480 Alta Road, San Diego, CA 92154

Visiting Hours:

Friday: 12:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Schedule through VPASS. The facility’s location in San Diego makes it particularly convenient for families in South LA and Orange County.

Special Characteristics: RJD is designated for inmates with severe mental illness and developmental disabilities. The facility operates a prison bakery serving 6 CDCR facilities (producing 9,760 loaves daily) and a prison shoe factory (producing 1,000 shoes daily for the CDCR system). Five interfaith chapels serve the diverse population.

Additional facilities within reasonable visiting distance

Kern County cluster (Bakersfield area, 150-195 miles)

California State Prison, Corcoran (COR) – Located 195 miles north via I-5 (approximately 3 hours), Corcoran houses approximately 3,424 male inmates in Level III and Level IV (maximum security) facilities. One of California’s largest prisons, it features extensive Prison Industry Authority operations. Main Phone: (559) 992-8800. Visiting: Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM.

Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) – Located 150 miles north in Delano (approximately 2.5 hours), KVSP houses approximately 2,900 male inmates in Level IV (maximum security) facilities. Opened in 2005 as a relatively new facility adjacent to North Kern State Prison. Main Phone: (661) 721-6300.

North Kern State Prison (NKSP) – Also located in Delano at 150 miles from LA, NKSP operates as a medium custody general population facility with minimum support facilities and reception center operations. Main Phone: (661) 721-2345.

Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison, Corcoran (SATF/CSP) – Located in the same area as CSP-Corcoran (195 miles), SATF houses approximately 4,600 male inmates specifically for substance use disorder treatment using a therapeutic community model. Main Phone: (559) 992-7100.

Imperial County cluster (desert region, 165-175 miles)

Centinela State Prison (CEN) – Located 165 miles southeast in Imperial (approximately 2.5-3 hours), Centinela houses approximately 5,000+ male inmates across all security levels (Level I through IV including Sensitive Needs Yard). Main Phone: (760) 337-7900. Visiting: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Calipatria State Prison (CAL) – Located 175 miles southeast in Calipatria (approximately 2.5-3 hours), known as “the lowest prison in the Western Hemisphere” at 184 feet below sea level. Houses over 2,543 male inmates in Level IV (maximum security) and Level I units. Main Phone: (760) 348-7000. Visiting: Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.

Eastern desert

Ironwood State Prison (ISP) – Located 200 miles east in Blythe (approximately 3-3.5 hours via I-10), Ironwood houses approximately 2,464 male inmates in four Level III facilities and one Level I facility. Features The Last Mile computer programming initiative. Main Phone: (760) 921-3000. Visiting: Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM.

Understanding the classification and transfer process

The journey from LA County Jail to permanent state prison placement follows a structured timeline that families should understand to set realistic expectations.

Immediate post-sentencing period

After sentencing to state prison, the individual remains in county jail while the court processes the Abstract of Judgment (sentencing documents) and sends prison packets to CDCR. The timeline varies from days to several weeks based on court processing speed and county jail capacity. During this period, maintain contact through the county jail system as the person has not yet transferred to state custody.

Reception center phase (up to 90 days)

Once CDCR receives the paperwork and bed space becomes available, the individual transfers to a reception center. For LA County inmates, common reception centers include Wasco State Prison, California State Prison Los Angeles County (Lancaster), California Institution for Men (Chino), or other designated facilities. Women transfer to Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla as the primary women’s reception center.

During the reception phase, inmates undergo comprehensive evaluation including medical and mental health assessments, classification interviews, and program needs assessment. The first phone call typically occurs within the first week, followed by one phone call per week thereafter during reception. These weekly calls are your primary communication method during this period, as visiting is extremely limited (behind-glass only, by appointment, for already-approved visitors).

Classification determines security level based on multiple factors: age, crime committed and violence level, prior incarcerations, gang involvement, criminal history, enemies within the system, behavior and disciplinary history, medical and mental health needs, and family location. Family location is considered but never guaranteed—CDCR can place inmates anywhere in California based on operational needs.

The classification score determines security level:

Level I (0-18 points): Minimum security, open dormitories, low security perimeter
Level II (19-35 points): Open dormitories with secure perimeter and armed coverage
Level III (36-59 points): Secure perimeter with armed coverage, cells adjacent to exterior walls
Level IV (60+ points): Maximum security, internal/external armed coverage, cells non-adjacent to exterior

Endorsement and permanent placement (additional 45-60 days)

After classification, the Classification Staff Representative (CSR) must approve “endorsement” to a specific institution. This additional process takes 45-60 days, during which the person waits for available bed space and transportation. Total timeline from sentencing to permanent placement: approximately 4.5-5 months.

Privilege Group U restrictions during reception

During reception, inmates are assigned to Privilege Group U with significantly limited privileges: no family visits (overnight visits), half of maximum monthly canteen draw, one phone call per week, and no personal packages. They can receive limited mail including up to 100 sheets of lined writing paper, 40 envelopes, and 40 stamps. Do not expect regular visiting or full communication until transfer to permanent institution.

Communication blackout periods

The first week typically involves minimal communication as the person processes through intake. After that first week, weekly phone calls resume. CDCR does not notify families of transfers—the incarcerated person must inform you of location changes. Check CIRIS regularly (ciris.mt.cdcr.ca.gov) to track movements, especially during the transition from reception center to permanent institution.

Getting approved to visit: the Form 106 process

Visiting any California state prison requires pre-approval through a background check process that takes 4-6 weeks. Understanding this process and starting early is essential.

Step 1: Receiving the signed visitor questionnaire

The incarcerated person must initiate this process. You cannot obtain CDCR Form 106 (Visitor Questionnaire) yourself. The inmate must request the form from facility staff, sign it (confirming they agree to add you to their visiting list), and mail it to you. Without their signature, your application will not be processed.

Step 2: Completing the questionnaire truthfully and completely

This is the most critical step. CDCR conducts thorough background checks through the California Law Enforcement Telecommunication System. List ALL arrests and convictions without exception, even if charges were dismissed, you were never convicted, or you cannot remember specific details. Any arrest or conviction found during the background check that you did not disclose results in automatic denial.

Provide complete information including full name, contact information, physical description, relationship to the inmate, complete arrest and conviction history, and previous addresses for the past two years. If you cannot remember specific details about past encounters with law enforcement, provide approximate dates and as much detail as possible. Complete honesty is essential—previous charges may or may not preclude visiting, but omitting them guarantees denial.

Step 3: Mailing to the correct address

Mail the completed questionnaire to the Visiting Sergeant and/or Lieutenant at the institution where the inmate is housed. Use the staff address, not the inmate mailing address. Find correct addresses on each institution’s page at cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator. Address to “Attention: Visiting” at the institution.

Step 4: Waiting for background check processing

Processing takes 4-6 weeks but varies by institution based on application volume and staffing levels. CDCR conducts complete criminal history checks, verifies all arrests and convictions, checks for outstanding warrants, and reviews parole or probation status. No notification occurs until the process completes.

Step 5: Receiving approval or denial

If approved: The incarcerated person receives notification (NOT you directly), and they must inform you of the approval. Your name enters the computer system as an approved visitor. Bring valid government-issued photo ID to visits, but you do not need proof of approval. Approval may require renewal after 12 months.

If denied: You receive a letter stating the reason for denial. The incarcerated person receives notice of the denial but not the reason. Common grounds for denial include recent or extensive criminal history (especially crimes sensitive to institutional security), outstanding warrants, current parole or probation without approval, being a former inmate without proper authorization, omissions or falsifications on the questionnaire, or being a victim of the inmate’s crime.

Appeals process

If denied, you have several options: reapply with complete information if denial was due to incomplete details, provide additional documentation if requested (such as proof of discharge from probation), appeal to the Warden in writing (must respond within 15 working days), or appeal to the Director of Division of Adult Institutions at P.O. Box 942883, Sacramento, CA 94283-0001 (must respond within 20 working days). Include copies of previous decisions with appeals.

Special considerations for minors and former inmates

Children visitors must be accompanied by an approved adult visitor (parent or legal guardian) OR have written, notarized permission from parent or legal guardian plus certified birth certificate. Notarized letters must have original notary stamp and be updated each calendar year.

Former inmates or individuals on parole/probation face additional restrictions. Former inmates must have written approval from the Warden if discharged from parole within 12 months, or from their Parole Agent if still on parole. It is a felony to be on prison grounds while on parole or probation without prior written approval.

Visiting rules and procedures

Once approved, understanding visiting rules ensures smooth visits and prevents violations that could result in suspension or permanent exclusion.

Before every visit

Call the visiting hotline at 1-800-374-8474 to verify the facility is not on lockdown and visiting is open. Check the Facility Visiting Status page at cdcr.ca.gov/visitors/visiting-status for current status. Lockdowns, emergencies, or facility-specific situations can cancel visiting without notice, and families who travel without calling risk wasted trips.

Most institutions offer visiting Friday through Sunday plus five major holidays (New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). Verify specific hours for each institution as they vary significantly. Schedule visits through the Visitation Scheduling Application (VSA) online at visitorreservations.cdcr.ca.gov, though some facilities accept walk-in visits during specific hours.

Required identification and dress code

Bring valid government-issued photo ID (state driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID). Children need certified birth certificates or embossed abstracts of birth plus accompanying approved adults or notarized permission from parents.

The dress code is strictly enforced and violations result in denied visits. Do NOT wear clothing resembling inmate clothing (blue denim pants, blue chambray shirts, orange tops with orange bottoms, or red tops at specific facilities). Do NOT wear clothing resembling staff uniforms (forest green pants/bottoms or tan shirts/tops). Avoid camouflage unless you are active/reserve military with ID.

Specific prohibitions include strapless, halter, bare midriff, sheer, or transparent clothing; skirts, dresses, or shorts more than 2 inches above the knee; clothing exposing breast, genitalia, or buttocks; very tight or form-fitting attire; wigs, hairpieces, extensions, or headpieces (except medical reasons with prior approval); hats or gloves (except with approval or inclement weather); shower shoes; and clothing with metal that cannot be removed (underwire bras, metal buttons). Dress conservatively and modestly.

Security procedures and prohibited items

All visitors pass through metal detectors. Remove items that may trigger the detector including hairclips, hairpins, jewelry, belts, and shoes. If you cannot pass the metal detector, your visit may be delayed or denied. Visitors with medical implants or prosthetic devices must bring a notarized statement from their physician on letterhead detailing the device and specific location. Contact the Visiting Officer in advance for special instructions.

Prohibited items in visiting rooms include: weapons of any kind, drugs or alcohol, cell phones or electronic devices, cameras, large bags or purses, food or beverages (unless approved for small children), money (except small amounts for vending machines as allowed), writing materials or books (unless pre-approved), and any other items designated by the Chief of Corrections.

Visiting room conduct

Maintain appropriate behavior as in any public place. Physical contact allowed includes a brief embrace and kiss upon arrival and departure, holding hands during visit, and age-appropriate contact with children. Stay fully clothed at all times. Do not engage in verbal or physical fighting, defiance to staff, use of gang slogans, or sexual contact. Remain in designated visiting areas only.

Violations result in warnings for minor infractions, immediate visit termination, suspension from visiting, or permanent exclusion from the visiting program. The incarcerated person may also face disciplinary action. Serious violations involving drugs, weapons, or sexual contact result in immediate severe consequences including criminal charges.

Visit duration and special visits

Contact visits typically last a minimum of 2 hours with no maximum time limit unless the visiting room reaches capacity. If overcrowded, “first in, first out” rules apply. Visits may be terminated during lockdowns or emergencies. Reception center visits are behind glass only, by appointment, with limited schedules.

Family visits (overnight conjugal visits) are available at select institutions for eligible inmates in Privilege Group A (or Group B once every 6 months). Immediate family members only, including registered domestic partners. Eligibility requires good behavior with no serious rule violations in the past 5 years. Not available during reception or for certain security classifications. Apply separately through the Family Visiting Office at the specific institution. Visits last approximately 46 consecutive hours on weekends (Friday-Sunday) or midweek (Tuesday-Thursday).

Maintaining contact: mail, phone, and electronic communication

Staying connected strengthens relationships and supports successful reentry. California offers multiple communication methods, with significant improvements including free phone calls since January 2023.

Mail correspondence

Mail is always allowed and represents the most reliable communication method, especially during reception when other options are limited. Find the correct mailing address on the institution’s facility page at cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator. Always include the inmate’s full name, CDCR number, facility/housing/cell assignment (if known), and complete P.O. Box address.

Address format:

[Inmate Name, CDCR#]
[Institution Name]
[Facility/Housing/Cell]
[P.O. Box Number]
[City, State ZIP]

All non-legal mail is opened and inspected before delivery to verify no contraband. Legal mail (to/from courts or attorneys) may not be opened without the inmate’s permission and must be clearly marked “Legal Mail” or “Confidential.” Typical delivery takes 5-7 business days but may be longer during lockdowns or holidays.

You can send letters (maximum 10 pages per envelope), cards without embellishments, photographs (limited to 10 per envelope, maximum 8″ x 10″), drawings, children’s schoolwork, and articles cut from newspapers or magazines. Do NOT send cash, packages, books from non-approved sources, or any content presenting security risks (discussion of criminal acts, coded messages, maps of prison area, gang-related content, nudity or sexual content, hate speech).

Books and publications must be soft cover and sent directly from publishers, bookstores, or book distributors (Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble). Inmates can possess a maximum of 10 books at one time. Old books must be donated, sent home at the inmate’s expense, or disposed of when receiving new books.

Phone calls (FREE since January 2023)

All audio telephone calls from CDCR state prisons are completely free as of January 1, 2023, eliminating what was previously a significant financial burden on families. Inmates initiate all calls using either wall phones or tablets. Calls have a 15-minute time limit, and families cannot call inmates directly.

To receive calls, provide your phone number to the incarcerated person in correspondence. The inmate adds the number to their approved phone list, then calls when phone access is available. During reception, expect one call within the first week and one call per week thereafter. After transfer to permanent institution and depending on privilege group, calls become more frequent.

Electronic messages through tablets

CDCR provides tablets at no cost to inmates after transfer to permanent institutions (tablets are NOT available during reception). Inmates can send and receive electronic messages, photos, and e-cards through the GettingOut system, transitioning to Securus Technologies between September 2025 and February 2026.

Incoming messages cost $0.05 each with a 2,000-character maximum per message. Families create free accounts through the GettingOut website or app to send messages to inmates. Inmates can respond using their trust account funds. The platform supports text messages, photo sharing, and e-cards, providing a modern way to stay connected between visits.

Video calls

Inmates receive 15 minutes of free video calls every two weeks through tablets after transfer to permanent institutions. Additional video time is available at per-minute rates with no minimums or connection fees. Inmates initiate on-demand video calls (no scheduling needed) using their tablets, and family members receive calls through the GettingOut Visits mobile app. Families must set up a Friends & Family account funded through ConnectNetwork to accept video calls beyond the free 15 minutes.

Sending money and packages

Financial support helps inmates purchase commissary items, use tablet services, and maintain quality of life while incarcerated. Understanding deposit methods and restrictions ensures your money reaches your loved one efficiently.

Three methods to send money

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) – FASTEST: Deposits post to accounts within 1-3 business days. Service fees vary by deposit amount. Use ConnectNetwork (web.connectnetwork.com) available 24/7 by website or mobile app, accepting credit/debit cards for trust account or restitution deposits. Alternatively, use JPay (jpay.com) for inmate discretionary funds only (NOT for Family Visit or TCL funds), also posting within 1-3 business days with service fees.

JPay Lock Box – NO FEES: Use the Money Order Deposit Form from jpay.com. Make checks or money orders payable to “JPay” (maximum $999.99 per form). Mail to JPay, 2202 South Figueroa St, Box #3001, Los Angeles, CA 90007. Include sender name and address. Personal checks held for 10 business days. Do NOT include letters or notes—they will be discarded. This method involves no service fees but is slower than EFT.

Direct Mail to Institution – NO FEES but SLOWEST: Make checks or money orders payable to “CDCR.” Include inmate name and CDCR number on check plus sender’s name and address. Mail to the institution where the inmate is housed (find address on facility page). All funds have a 30-day hold before posting to account. This method is free but significantly slower.

Critical information about restitution deductions

If the inmate has a restitution fine or direct order, 50% of ALL deposits (or balance owing, whichever is less) is automatically deducted, plus an additional 10% administrative fee (maximum total deduction: 55%). This applies to all trust fund deposits regardless of source. Deducted amounts transfer to the California Victim Compensation Board. Packages purchased directly from approved vendors are NOT subject to restitution deductions, making this the most efficient way to provide goods to inmates who owe restitution.

For questions about restitution, contact CalVCB at (800) 777-9229. Deposits cannot be sent electronically for Family Visiting funds—contact the institution’s Family Visiting Office for instructions.

How inmates use trust account funds

Inmates make commissary purchases at institution canteens for food, clothing, hygiene items, shoes, and approved electronics. They transfer money from trust accounts to tablet accounts for services including messaging (incoming messages cost $0.05 each), video calls (15 minutes free every 2 weeks, additional time charged per minute), music, movies, games, audiobooks, news, podcasts, and educational content. Phone calls are now free, eliminating those charges. Funds also cover medical/dental co-pays when required.

Packages from approved vendors

Families CANNOT send packages directly to inmates. All packages must be ordered through CDCR-approved vendors. Inmates may receive quarterly packages (up to 30 pounds) based on privilege group—typically 4 packages per year for Groups A and B, 1 package per year for Group D (special housing), and NO packages for Group C (refusing work) or Group U (reception).

Primary approved vendors include:

Access Securepak: (800) 546-6283, californiaqp.com or accesscatalog.com, P.O. Box 50028, Sparks, NV 89435-0028

Union Supply Direct: (866) 404-8989 or (562) 361-5711, CaliforniaInmatePackage.com, P.O. Box 619059, Dallas, TX 75261-9059

Walkenhorst’s: (800) 660-9255, walkenhorsts.com, 445 Ingenuity Ave, Sparks, NV 89441

Mike’s Better Shoes: (856) 767-1300, mikesbettershoes.com, 1256 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd, Voorhees, NJ 08043

The Vitamin Outlet: (800) 967-1827, P.O. Box 2073, Sinking Spring, PA 19608

When ordering, provide the inmate’s full name, CDCR number, privilege group, and current housing location. Packages typically deliver within 15 calendar days except during peak seasons (Easter, Thanksgiving through New Year) or lockdowns. Religious items can be ordered from multiple approved vendors—contact m_DAIReligiousPOU@cdcr.ca.gov for information.

Important CDCR policies and resources

Understanding CDCR-specific policies helps families navigate the system successfully and advocate for their loved ones.

Privilege groups and access to services

Inmate privilege groups determine access to programs and services:

Group A (Full privileges): Full-time work/training or medically disabled. Family visits allowed, regular visiting allowed, maximum canteen draw, telephone access, 4 packages per year (30 lbs each).

Group B (Partial privileges): Half-time work or involuntarily unassigned. Family visits once every 6 months, regular visiting allowed, half maximum canteen draw, telephone access, 4 packages per year.

Group C (Restricted): Refuses work assignment. No family visits, no regular family visits, quarter maximum canteen draw, 1 phone call per week, NO packages.

Group D (Special housing): Administrative Segregation, Security Housing Unit, Psychiatric Services Unit. No family visits, no regular family visits, quarter maximum canteen draw, 1 phone call per week, 1 package per year (30 lbs).

Group U (Reception): Under processing at reception center. No family visits, behind-glass visiting only by appointment, half maximum canteen draw, 1 phone call per week, NO packages.

Differences between county jail and state prison

Understanding these differences helps families adjust expectations. County jails house individuals awaiting trial, serving misdemeanor sentences, serving short sentences (typically under 1 year), awaiting transfer to state prison, or held for probation/parole violations. They are run by local county sheriffs or city police, focus on short-term containment, have limited programs, and operate under county-specific rules.

State prisons house individuals convicted of felonies with sentences exceeding 1 year and those convicted of serious or violent crimes requiring long-term incarceration. They are managed by CDCR, focus on long-term rehabilitation, offer extensive educational and vocational programs, and operate under standardized CDCR policies across all 34 adult institutions. Families cannot choose the location—CDCR determines placement based on classification throughout California.

Office of the Ombudsman

The Office of the Ombudsman provides a confidential avenue to address complaints and resolve issues. Contact them at (916) 445-1773, by mail at P.O. Box 942883, Sacramento, CA 94283, or through the online form at cdcr.ca.gov/ombuds/oocontact. The Ombudsman listens, answers questions, explains policies and procedures, and develops options, though they do not conduct formal investigations or change rules.

Family support organizations

Friends Outside operates visitor centers at state prisons (funded by CDCR under legislative mandate) providing comfortable waiting areas, childcare for children up to age 17 during visiting hours, appropriate clothing loans if visitor attire violates rules, transportation between institutions and public transit terminals, information on visiting rules, emergency assistance resources, and the “Write to Me” program for children writing to incarcerated parents. Visit friendsoutside.org for specific locations and hours. Some facilities temporarily lack Friends Outside presence due to staffing; CDCR is working to restore services.

Statewide Inmate Family Council (SIFC) brings together CDCR and family representatives to support connections between incarcerated persons and their families. Visit cdcr.ca.gov/sifc for meeting minutes, policy updates, and advocacy information. Every institution has a Local Inmate Family Council (IFC) where families meet regularly with Wardens to clarify visiting rules, discuss health and education programs, and address concerns. Contact information available through each institution’s Community Resource Manager.

Key contact information and websites

Essential phone numbers:

CDCR Main: (916) 324-7308
Visiting Hotline: 1-800-374-8474
Inmate Identification Unit: (916) 445-6713 (Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM PT)
Office of the Ombudsman: (916) 445-1773

Essential websites:

Inmate Locator (CIRIS): ciris.mt.cdcr.ca.gov
CDCR Main Site: cdcr.ca.gov
Family Resources: cdcr.ca.gov/family-resources
Visiting Information: cdcr.ca.gov/visitors
Facility Visiting Status: cdcr.ca.gov/visitors/visiting-status
Visitation Scheduling (VSA): visitorreservations.cdcr.ca.gov
Send Money (ConnectNetwork): web.connectnetwork.com
Send Money (JPay): jpay.com
Facility Locator: cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator
Statewide Inmate Family Council: cdcr.ca.gov/sifc

Timeline expectations for families

Understanding realistic timelines helps manage expectations during the challenging transition from county jail to state prison:

From sentencing to transfer: Days to several weeks (varies by court processing and jail capacity)

Reception center stay: Up to 90 days for classification

Endorsement process: Additional 45-60 days for institutional approval and bed availability

Total time to permanent placement: Approximately 4.5-5 months

First phone call: Within first week at reception center

Weekly communication: One phone call per week during reception

Visitor approval (Form 106): 4-6 weeks from submission

Regular visiting: After transfer to permanent institution (if pre-approved)

Communication during first week: Minimal during intake processing

These are typical timeframes; actual times vary by facility volume, classification complexity, and bed availability. Always verify current information through official CDCR channels as policies may change.

Practical tips for families

Immediately after sentencing: Note the sentencing date and case number, set up a collect call account with the phone provider, expect 1-2 weeks of silence during initial transfer, and prepare to receive the first call within the first week at reception center.

During reception period: Check CIRIS regularly to track location, have the incarcerated person send Form 106 immediately, complete and submit Form 106 as soon as received, be patient with the 4-6 week processing time, expect only weekly phone calls, write letters frequently (allowed during reception), and do not plan visits until Form 106 approval is confirmed.

After transfer to permanent institution: Verify location on CIRIS, check if Form 106 approval transfers (usually yes), review institution-specific visiting rules, join the Local Inmate Family Council, connect with Friends Outside Visitor Center, set up tablets/email communication accounts, and plan a regular visiting schedule.

General recommendations: Keep all correspondence and documentation, document all phone calls with dates/times/names, take photos of denied letters to track issues, connect with other families through IFC for support, stay informed on policy changes through the SIFC website, save all approval letters and important documents, and memorize your loved one’s CDCR number for all transactions.

Understanding the system makes the journey easier

The California state prison system operates according to established policies designed to balance security, rehabilitation, and family connection. While the initial transfer process requires patience and the classification period limits communication, understanding these procedures helps families maintain realistic expectations and stay connected throughout their loved one’s incarceration.

Start the visiting approval process immediately when you receive Form 106, as the 4-6 week background check timeline means early application ensures you can visit as soon as your loved one reaches their permanent institution. Take advantage of free phone calls, electronic messaging, and video visits to maintain regular contact. Join your local Inmate Family Council to connect with other families, stay informed about policy changes, and advocate for improvements.

Most importantly, check CIRIS regularly to track your loved one’s location, call 1-800-374-8474 before every visit to verify the facility is open, and save all important contact information and CDCR numbers in multiple places. The journey through the state prison system presents challenges, but thousands of California families successfully navigate it every year by staying informed, following procedures, and maintaining consistent communication.

This guide provides comprehensive information current as of October 2025. Always verify current procedures directly with CDCR or specific institutions as policies and procedures are subject to change. For additional help, contact the Office of the Ombudsman at (916) 445-1773 or visit cdcr.ca.gov/family-resources for the most current information and resources.

Published October 3, 2025.