Guilford County Jail is a secure detention facility in Greensboro, North Carolina, operated by the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office. It holds individuals awaiting trial, sentencing, or transfer, and those serving short-term sentences. The jail provides essential services including inmate lookup, visitation, commissary, medical care, and rehabilitation programs. Families, legal representatives, and community members rely on accurate, up-to-date information about inmate status, rules, and resources. This page delivers complete, current details on how to find an inmate, visit, send money, understand charges, and access support services—all in one trusted location.
How to Search for an Inmate at Guilford County Jail
Locating an inmate at Guilford County Jail is simple using the official online inmate roster. This tool is updated daily and shows real-time booking status, charges, court dates, and release information. Anyone can search—family, friends, lawyers, or reporters—without needing special access.
Using the Online Inmate Lookup Tool
Go to the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office website and click “Inmate Roster.” Enter the person’s full name or inmate ID number. Results appear instantly and include:
- Full legal name
- Booking date and time
- Current charges and case status
- Bail amount (if set)
- Next court date
- Housing location within the jail
- Expected release date (for sentenced inmates)
If no results appear, double-check the spelling. Try a partial name or known alias. The system does not show inmates recently arrested but not yet processed. Wait 2–4 hours after arrest for updates.
Offline Search Options
If the website is down or you prefer phone help, call the jail’s public information line at (336) 641-3690. Staff can confirm an inmate’s status if you provide their full name and date of birth. You may also visit in person at 201 S Greene St, Greensboro, NC 27401, between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Bring a photo ID and any known booking details.
Guilford County Jail Booking and Release Process
When someone is arrested in Guilford County, they are taken to the jail for booking. This process takes 1–3 hours and includes several steps to ensure safety and record accuracy.
Booking Steps
- Fingerprinting: Prints are taken and checked against state and federal databases.
- Mugshot: A photo is taken for identification and public records.
- Personal Information: Name, address, date of birth, and emergency contact are recorded.
- Health Screening: A nurse checks for injuries, illnesses, or mental health concerns.
- Property Inventory: Personal items are logged and stored securely.
- Classification: Inmates are assigned a risk level to determine housing and supervision needs.
After booking, a judge sets bail at the first court appearance, usually within 24–48 hours. If bail is posted, the inmate is released after paperwork is complete. If not, they remain in custody until their next hearing.
Release Procedures
Inmates are released once their sentence ends, bail is paid, charges are dropped, or they are transferred to another facility. Release times vary but typically occur between 6 AM and 10 PM. Families are not automatically notified—check the inmate roster or call the jail for updates. Released inmates receive their stored property and any remaining commissary funds.
Visitation Rules and Scheduling at Guilford County Jail
Visitation helps inmates stay connected with loved ones. Guilford County Jail offers both in-person and virtual visits. All visits must be scheduled in advance and follow strict rules for safety and order.
In-Person Visitation Guidelines
Visits occur Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Each visit lasts 30 minutes. Only two visitors are allowed per inmate per session. Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
To schedule a visit:
- Go to the jail’s website and click “Visitation.”
- Create an account or log in.
- Select the inmate and available time slot.
- Receive a confirmation email or text.
On the day of the visit:
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
- Bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID).
- Pass through a metal detector and bag check.
- Follow the dress code: no hats, sunglasses, revealing clothes, or clothing with gang symbols.
Physical contact is limited to a brief hug at the start and end. No kissing, hand-holding, or passing of items is allowed.
Virtual Visitation
Video visits are available 7 days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM. They cost $7.50 for 20 minutes and are conducted through a secure platform. To use virtual visitation:
- Sign up on the jail’s approved vendor site.
- Add funds to your account.
- Schedule a session up to 7 days in advance.
- Join the call from a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and internet.
All virtual visits are recorded and may be reviewed by jail staff.
Inmate Communication: Phone Calls and Mail
Inmates can stay in touch with family through phone calls and mail. These services are monitored for security but allow regular contact.
Phone Calls
Inmates can make outgoing calls to pre-approved numbers. Calls are limited to 15 minutes and cost $0.23 per minute. Families pay for calls by adding money to the inmate’s phone account online or at a kiosk in the jail lobby. Incoming calls to inmates are not allowed.
All calls are recorded and may be listened to by staff. Inmates cannot call cell phones without a prepaid account. International calls are blocked.
Mail Policy
Inmates may send and receive letters. All mail is opened and inspected. To send mail:
- Use plain white paper and a standard envelope.
- Write the inmate’s full name and ID number on the envelope.
- Address it to: [Inmate Name], Guilford County Jail, 201 S Greene St, Greensboro, NC 27401.
Do not include:
- Polaroids, stickers, or drawings
- Perfume, powders, or food
- Anything that can hide contraband
Books and magazines must come directly from publishers or approved vendors like Amazon. No used books are allowed.
Sending Money to an Inmate
Family and friends can send money to inmates for commissary, phone calls, and medical co-pays. Funds are held in a secure account and can be used immediately.
Ways to Send Money
- Online: Use the jail’s payment partner website. Deposits post within minutes.
- Kiosk: Visit the jail lobby and use the touchscreen kiosk. Accepts cash, credit, and debit cards.
- Phone: Call (866) 232-1234 to add funds with a card.
- Money Order by Mail: Send a money order made out to the inmate. Include their full name and ID. Do not send cash or personal checks.
There is a $2.95 fee for online and phone deposits. Kiosk deposits cost $3.50. Funds are available within 1 hour for online and kiosk payments.
Commissary and Inmate Purchases
The commissary lets inmates buy snacks, hygiene items, and writing supplies. Orders are placed weekly and delivered on Fridays. Common items include:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Food | Chips, candy, coffee, soda |
| Hygiene | Toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo |
| Clothing | Socks, undershirts, sweatshirts |
| Stationery | Pens, paper, envelopes, stamps |
Inmates receive a commissary form each week. They mark desired items and return the form by Wednesday. Purchases are deducted from their account. Unused funds roll over each week.
Healthcare and Mental Health Services
Guilford County Jail provides medical and mental health care to all inmates. A licensed medical team is on-site 24/7. Upon intake, each inmate gets a health screening. Serious conditions are treated immediately.
Medical Care
- Routine check-ups and prescription refills
- Emergency treatment for injuries or illness
- Dental care for pain or infection
- Vision exams and basic glasses
- Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension)
Mental Health Support
- Individual counseling for anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Group therapy for addiction and anger management
- Crisis intervention for suicidal thoughts
- Medication for psychiatric conditions
Inmates can request medical help at any time by telling staff or submitting a request form. All care is confidential and follows state health standards.
Rehabilitation and Education Programs
Guilford County Jail offers programs to help inmates prepare for life after release. These reduce recidivism and support successful reentry.
Educational Opportunities
- GED preparation classes
- Adult basic education (reading, math)
- Computer literacy training
Vocational Training
- Carpentry and construction skills
- Plumbing and electrical basics
- Food service and kitchen safety
- Job readiness workshops (résumé writing, interviews)
Programs are free and run by certified instructors. Inmates earn certificates upon completion, which can help with job applications.
Bail and Bond Information
Bail allows an inmate to be released before trial. The amount is set by a judge based on the charge, criminal history, and flight risk.
How to Post Bail
- Call the Booking Office at (336) 641-3696 to confirm the bail amount.
- Pay in cash, credit card, or through a bail bondsman.
- If using a bondsman, you pay 10% of the bail amount (non-refundable).
- Submit payment at the jail or online through the payment portal.
- The inmate is released once paperwork is complete.
Bail is returned if the inmate appears at all court dates. If they fail to appear, the bail is forfeited.
Security and Safety Measures
Guilford County Jail uses strict protocols to protect inmates, staff, and visitors.
- 24/7 video surveillance in all common areas
- Electronic monitoring of inmate movement
- Regular staff training in crisis response
- Inmate classification by risk level
- Emergency drills for fire, medical, and security incidents
All staff undergo background checks and are certified in CPR and first aid. The jail is inspected annually by state officials.
Contact Information and Hours
For questions or assistance, use the following details:
- Address: 201 S Greene St, Greensboro, NC 27401
- Phone: (336) 641-3690
- Website: https://www.guilfordcountync.gov
- Visitation Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
- Emergency Line: 911
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Guilford County Jail are answered below. These cover inmate lookup, visitation, mail, and more. For urgent matters, call the jail directly.
How do I find out if someone is in Guilford County Jail?
Use the inmate lookup tool on the Guilford County Sheriff’s website. Enter the person’s full name or ID number. The roster updates daily and shows current inmates, charges, and court dates. If you can’t find them, call (336) 641-3690. The person may have been recently arrested and not yet processed, or they could be in a different facility. Always confirm with the jail before visiting or sending money.
Can I visit an inmate on weekends?
No, in-person visits are only available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM. Virtual visits are offered seven days a week from 8 AM to 8 PM. Weekend visits are not allowed for security and staffing reasons. Schedule virtual visits in advance through the jail’s online portal. Each session costs $7.50 and lasts 20 minutes. Make sure your device has a working camera and internet connection.
What happens to an inmate’s mail if it’s rejected?
If mail violates the rules—such as containing prohibited items or improper packaging—it is returned to the sender with a note explaining the issue. The inmate does not receive it. Common reasons for rejection include use of colored paper, stickers, or food items. Always use plain white envelopes and standard letter paper. Write the inmate’s full name and ID clearly. If you’re unsure, call the jail for guidance before mailing.
How much does it cost to call an inmate?
Phone calls from inmates cost $0.23 per minute. Families must set up a prepaid account through the jail’s phone service provider. Deposits can be made online, by phone, or at the kiosk in the jail lobby. Each call is limited to 15 minutes. Inmates cannot receive incoming calls. All calls are recorded and may be monitored. Keep conversations brief to manage costs.
Can inmates get books or magazines?
Yes, but only if they are sent directly from a publisher or approved vendor like Amazon. Used books, magazines from stores, or personal copies are not allowed. This rule prevents hidden contraband. Books must be paperback—no hardcovers. Include the inmate’s full name and ID on the package. Delivery may take 1–2 weeks. Check the jail’s website for a current list of approved vendors.
What programs help inmates prepare for release?
Guilford County Jail offers GED classes, vocational training in carpentry and plumbing, and job readiness workshops. Mental health counseling and substance abuse programs are also available. These services aim to reduce repeat offenses and support reintegration. Inmates can sign up through their case manager. Certificates earned may help with employment after release.
How do I get a copy of an inmate’s mugshot?
Mugshots are public records. Request one by contacting the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office Records Division. Submit a written request with the inmate’s name, booking date, and your contact information. A fee may apply. Mugshots are not available online. If charges were dropped or the person was acquitted, they may request removal under North Carolina law, but this requires a court order.