Tablets are allowed in most U.S. prisons and jails, but only during specific times and under strict rules

Inmates can use tablets during designated recreation hours, in their cells after lockdown, or in common areas like dayrooms — but the exact timing depends on the facility's security level and daily schedule. Maximum-security prisons restrict tablet use far more than minimum-security facilities. Most facilities allow tablets only during evening hours or weekends, and some prisons ban them entirely from certain units or during count times (when guards verify all inmates are accounted for). The device itself must be state-approved, meaning it comes through the prison commissary or an official vendor, not from outside visitors or mail.

Tablets purchased through the prison commissary are pre-loaded with approved content and monitored by the facility. Inmates cannot bring personal tablets into prison, and contraband devices are confiscated when ready. The rules also vary by state — some states allow tablets in all facilities, while others restrict them to specific institutions or programs.

Key Takeaways

  • Tablets can be used during recreation hours, evening hours, or in cells after lockdown, depending on the facility's security level and schedule.
  • Only tablets purchased through the prison commissary are permitted; personal devices brought from outside are contraband.
  • Maximum-security prisons restrict tablet use more than minimum-security facilities, and some ban them from certain units entirely.
  • Tablets cannot be used during count times, meal times, or work assignments, and facilities can suspend tablet privileges for rule violations.
  • Rules vary by state and by individual facility, so the inmate handbook or a staff member can clarify the exact schedule at a specific prison or jail.

How security level affects tablet access

Maximum-security prisons typically allow tablets only in cells during evening hours, if at all. Some maximum-security units ban tablets from the general population entirely and restrict them to inmates in protective custody or special programs. Medium-security facilities usually permit tablet use in dayrooms and recreation areas during afternoon and evening hours. Minimum-security prisons and work camps often have the fewest restrictions, allowing tablets during most non-work hours.

The facility's classification also determines what content is available on the tablet. Maximum-security tablets may have no internet access, only email and educational programs. Medium and minimum-security tablets often include limited web browsing, music, and video streaming through approved platforms. Facilities can also revoke tablet privileges for 30 to 90 days if an inmate violates rules — such as attempting to modify the device, sharing a tablet with another inmate, or using it during prohibited times.

Times when tablets are never allowed

Tablets must be powered off and stored during count times, which typically occur at 6 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., and 9 p.m., though schedules vary by facility. Inmates cannot use tablets during meals, work assignments, medical appointments, or visits with family. Many facilities also prohibit tablets during school or vocational training hours, even if the inmate is not enrolled in those programs.

Lockdown periods — when inmates are confined to cells due to security incidents, weather, or facility maintenance — also ban tablet use. Some facilities extend this ban to the hour before and after lockdown to prevent inmates from hiding or damaging devices. Tablets are also prohibited in bathrooms, showers, and laundry areas, and cannot be taken to the yard or recreation field.

What happens if you bring a personal tablet into prison

Personal tablets, smartphones, or any electronic device brought into prison is classified as contraband and will be confiscated when ready. The inmate may face disciplinary charges, loss of commissary privileges for 30 to 180 days, or placement in segregation (solitary confinement) for 15 to 30 days. A second offense typically results in harsher penalties, including transfer to a higher-security facility.

Visitors who attempt to bring tablets into the facility also face consequences — they may be banned from visiting, and in some cases law enforcement is contacted. The facility's metal detectors and body scanners are designed to catch electronic devices, and staff also conduct random cell searches specifically looking for contraband electronics.

How to purchase a tablet through commissary

Inmates order tablets through the prison commissary using a commissary form or digital kiosk (if the facility has one). The tablet costs between $200 and $400, depending on the model and the state. The inmate's account must have sufficient funds — money from family deposits, work pay, or prior savings. The facility then orders the device from an approved vendor, which typically takes two to four weeks for delivery.

Once the tablet arrives, it is inspected by staff to may support it has not been modified and that all security software is intact. The inmate receives it during a commissary distribution day, usually once or twice per month. The facility loads the approved content onto the device before handing it over, and the inmate cannot add, remove, or modify any programs or files.

Differences between state prison and county jail tablet rules

County jails typically have stricter tablet restrictions than state prisons because inmates stay for shorter periods and security is tighter. Most county jails do not allow tablets at all, or restrict them to inmates in work-release programs or minimum-security pods. Tablets in county jails are usually available only during evening hours in the dayroom, and only if the inmate has no disciplinary violations in the past 30 days.

State prisons, by contrast, often treat tablets as part of the standard commissary system and allow them during most non-work hours. Federal prisons have their own rules — some allow tablets with very limited content, while others ban them entirely. An inmate should check the facility handbook or ask a counselor about the specific rules at their location.

What content and programs are available on prison tablets

Prison tablets come pre-loaded with email, educational courses, legal research databases, music and video streaming through approved platforms, and e-books. Maximum-security tablets typically have no internet access and only email and educational content. Medium and minimum-security tablets may include limited web browsing through a filtered system that blocks social media, dating sites, and news sites with graphic content.

Inmates can purchase additional content through the tablet's app store, which is restricted to educational, entertainment, and legal programs. Games, music, and video streaming services cost between $0.99 and $9.99 per item or subscription. The facility monitors all activity on the tablet and can see what programs are installed, what content is accessed, and how long the inmate uses the device each day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an inmate use a tablet during visitation time?

No. Tablets must be stored in the cell or locker during all visits. Visitors are not allowed to see or use the inmate's tablet, and the inmate cannot show videos or photos to visitors on the device. This rule applies to in-person visits, video calls, and phone calls.

What happens if a tablet breaks or stops working?

The inmate can submit a maintenance request to have the device repaired by facility staff, which usually takes one to two weeks. If the tablet cannot be repaired, the inmate must purchase a replacement through commissary. The facility does not replace damaged tablets for free, even if the damage was accidental.

Can inmates share a tablet with cellmates or other inmates?

No. Each tablet is registered to one inmate, and sharing it is a violation that can result in confiscation and disciplinary charges. The facility tracks which inmate is using the device at all times through login credentials and monitoring software.

Are tablets allowed in segregation or solitary confinement?

Most facilities do not allow tablets in segregation. Inmates in solitary confinement are confined to a cell with minimal privileges, and tablets are considered a privilege that is removed during punishment. Some facilities may allow tablets in administrative segregation (protective custody) if the inmate has no disciplinary violations.

Can family members send money specifically for a tablet purchase?

Yes. Family members can deposit money into the inmate's commissary account through the facility's approved payment system, and the inmate can then order a tablet. The deposit usually takes three to five business days to appear in the account, and the tablet order takes an additional two to four weeks to arrive.