District of Columbia Inmate Search
Looking for someone in prison in District of Columbia? Start with the state's official inmate locator to find out which facility they're in, then write to them using their inmate ID number. Below you'll also find people from District of Columbia who are looking for pen pals.
Official state search
District of Columbia Inmate Locator
Through VINELink, the system District of Columbia uses
Federal prisons in District of Columbia
Federal Bureau of Prisons Locator
How to find and write to an inmate in District of Columbia
- Open the District of Columbia inmate locator above and search by full name or inmate ID number.
- Write down their inmate ID number and the facility they're housed in.
- Look up the facility's mailing address on the state corrections website.
- Address the envelope with their full name and ID number, and include your return address. Mail without an ID number is often sent back.
- Check the facility's mail rules before you send anything besides a letter. Many facilities limit photos, cards and colored paper.
County jails usually have their own search on the sheriff's website. The state locator covers state prisons.
District of Columbia inmates looking for pen pals
Common questions
How do I find an inmate in District of Columbia?
Use the official District of Columbia inmate locator. Search by full name or inmate ID number to see which facility the person is in. If they're in a federal prison, use the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator instead.
What do I need to write to an inmate in District of Columbia?
Their full name, their inmate ID number, and the facility's mailing address. Put the ID number on the envelope with their name. Mail without an ID number is often returned.
Can I find a pen pal in District of Columbia prisons?
Yes. PenPalsOnly lists incarcerated men and women from District of Columbia and other states who want pen pals. Each profile includes their mailing address, so you can write directly.
Coming home to District of Columbia?
Jobs that hire people with records, training and grants, record sealing, housing and ID help — all in our Fresh Start guides.
Inmate search in other states
The locator links go to official government sites that PenPalsOnly doesn't run. Search results and mail rules are set by each state.