Sci Houtzdale

Visiting at Sci Houtzdale requires advance approval through the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. The process is more involved than most people expect and should be started well before your planned visit date.

Getting Approved

Download the visitor application from the Pennsylvania DOC website (PA DOC) or request one by mail. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and relationship to the inmate. Felony convictions do not automatically disqualify you, but violent felonies or prior smuggling charges make approval less likely. Once approved, your name stays on the list unless the inmate requests removal or you violate visiting rules.

What to Actually Expect

• Dress code is enforced strictly — No denim at many state prisons (it matches inmate clothing). No shorts above the knee, no tank tops, no clothing without undergarments visible. Staff have discretion to deny entry based on attire.
• You will be searched — Expect to pass through a metal detector, possibly an ion scanner (detects drug residue), and a pat-down. Drug residue on clothing from secondhand contact (handling cash, touching surfaces) can trigger a positive and end your visit before it starts.
• Vending machines only for food — No outside food or drink. Bring \$10-\$20 in coins or small bills for vending. This matters more than you think — sharing a meal from the vending machines is the most normal interaction inmates get.
• Photos may be available — Many prisons offer a photo service during visits (Polaroid-style). These cost \$2-\$5 each and are often the only current photos an inmate has of their family. Ask about this when you check in.

For current visiting hours, holiday closures, and lockdown status, call (814) 378-1000 or visit their official website.

The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections operates a free online inmate search tool that covers Sci Houtzdale and all other state facilities.

Search PA DOC Inmate Locator »

What You'll Find

State inmate search tools typically show the current facility, projected release date (also called ERD or earliest release date), custody classification, and sentencing information. The projected release date factors in good-time credits and can change — it is an estimate, not a guarantee.

Parole and Release Dates

The date shown online is usually the earliest possible release date, assuming the inmate earns all available good-time credits. Disciplinary infractions can push this date back. Parole eligibility is often earlier than the projected release date — contact the Pennsylvania Parole Board for parole hearing dates, as these are not always in the inmate search system.

Depositing money to an inmate at Sci Houtzdale goes through the Pennsylvania DOC's designated deposit service. Most states contract with a single provider for all facilities.

How the Money Gets There

• Online deposit (JPay/GTL/Access Corrections) — The fastest option. Create an account on the provider's website, search for the inmate by name or state ID, and deposit using a debit card. Fees range from \$3.50-\$7.95 per transaction depending on the amount. Funds typically post within 24 hours.
• Money order by mail — The cheapest option. Make the money order payable to the state DOC or the specific provider. Include the inmate's full name and state ID number. Mail to the address specified on the DOC website. Processing: 7-14 business days.
• MoneyGram at retail locations — Some state DOCs accept MoneyGram. Check the state's website for the correct receive code.

Commissary Pricing

State prison commissary prices are typically marked up 20-40% above retail. A \$1 ramen packet may cost \$1.40. Hygiene items and snacks carry the highest markups. Most states publish their commissary price list on the DOC website — check before depositing so you know how far the money will go. Spending limits vary by state but are usually \$50-\$100 per week.

Communication options at Sci Houtzdale include postal mail, electronic messaging through a state-contracted provider, and phone calls. State prisons generally offer more communication options than county jails.

Electronic Messaging (JPay/GTL Tablets)

Most state prisons provide tablets that inmates can use for email-style messaging, music, and educational content. The messaging service is run by a contracted provider — usually JPay (owned by Securus) or GTL. Messages are sold in "stamps" or credits, typically costing \$0.25-\$0.50 per message. Photos can be attached for an extra fee. Create a free account on the provider's website to start messaging. Messages are reviewed by staff and may be delayed 24-48 hours before delivery.

Phone Calls

State prison phone rates are capped by the FCC at \$0.12-\$0.14 per minute for in-state calls. Out-of-state calls can cost more. Calls are limited to 15-30 minutes depending on state policy. Inmates call from shared phones during designated times. Set up a prepaid account with the provider to avoid higher collect-call rates. All calls are recorded and monitored except privileged legal calls.

Postal Mail

• Address to — [Full Legal Name, State ID Number], SCI HOUTZDALE, 209 INSTITUTION DR, Houtzdale, PA 16698
• Books — Most state prisons accept books only from approved vendors (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or publisher direct). Used books from home are almost always rejected.
• Photos — Generally allowed but check the state's rules on quantity, size, and content restrictions. Printed photos only — no digital media.

Sci Houtzdale is a prison located in Houtzdale, Pennsylvania. It is situated in Clearfield County, operates under State jurisdiction, is classified as a medium security facility, has a capacity of 2,365 inmates.

The facility currently houses approximately 2,568 inmates.