Finding an inmate’s number, also known as an inmate ID or booking number, can be essential for various tasks such as sending mail, depositing funds, or setting up phone calls.

Here are several methods to locate an inmate’s number…

Methods to Find an Inmate Number

• Online Inmate Search Tools
  • State Department of Corrections (DOC) Websites – Most state DOCs have online search tools where you can look up inmates by name, and the search results typically include the inmate’s number.
  • Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate Locator – For federal inmates, use the BOP’s Inmate Locator.
  • Local Jail Websites – Many county jails and city detention centers also have online search tools.
• Third-Party Inmate Locator Websites – Websites like VINELink, InmateAid, and JailExchange provide search tools for finding inmates in various correctional facilities. These sites aggregate information from multiple jurisdictions and can be useful if you’re unsure where the inmate is housed.
• Contacting the Facility
  • Call the Facility – You can call the jail, prison, or detention center where the inmate is housed and ask for the inmate’s number. Be prepared to provide the inmate’s full name and possibly other identifying details like their date of birth.
  • Visit the Facility – If you can visit in person, the facility’s information desk or visitation office can often provide the inmate’s number.
• Court Records – Inmate information may be included in court records, which are often public. You can search for case information on the website of the court where the inmate’s trial was held.
• Family and Friends – If you know family members or friends of the inmate, they may already have the inmate’s number and can share it with you.

Detailed Steps for Each Method

Using State DOC Websites

• Visit the State DOC Website – Search online for the Department of Corrections website for the state where the inmate is incarcerated (e.g., “California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation”).
• Navigate to the Inmate Locator Tool – Look for a link or section labeled “Inmate Locator,” “Inmate Search,” or similar.
• Enter the Required Information – Input the inmate’s full name and any other requested details (e.g., date of birth).
• Find the Inmate Number – Review the search results to find the inmate’s ID number.

Using the Federal BOP Inmate Locator

• Go to the BOP Inmate Locator Website – Visit BOP Inmate Locator.
• Enter the Inmate’s Information – You can search by the inmate’s name or BOP register number.
• Retrieve the Inmate Number – The search results will display the inmate’s number and other relevant information.

Contacting the Facility

• Find the Facility’s Contact Information – Look up the phone number or address of the jail or prison where the inmate is located.
• Call the Facility – Contact the facility’s main line and ask to speak to the records or information department.
• Provide Necessary Details – Give the inmate’s full name and any other identifying information required to locate their record.
• Receive the Inmate Number – The staff should be able to provide the inmate’s number if you provide adequate identification and reasons.

Finding an inmate’s number is straightforward if you use the appropriate resources and provide accurate information. Online tools provided by state DOCs, the Federal BOP, and third-party websites are very effective. Contacting the facility directly or checking court records can also yield the inmate’s number. Always ensure you have the correct spelling of the inmate’s name and other identifying details to streamline the search process.