NCDPS - Central Prison

About NCDPS - Central Prison

NCDPS - Central Prison is a maximum-security state correctional facility operated by the North Carolina Department of Corrections. The facility houses approximately 1000 inmates. Maximum-security prisons house individuals convicted of the most serious crimes under state law, including violent offenses such as murder, assault, and repeat felonies. These inmates have been assessed as requiring the highest level of supervision available in the state system.

Despite the security level, NCDPS - Central Prison offers programming to support inmate rehabilitation and eventual reentry. Available programs may include GED preparation, ESL classes, adult continuing education, college correspondence courses, parenting classes, and vocational training. A Release Preparation Program helps eligible inmates develop practical skills — including job searching, resume writing, budgeting, and housing planning — before their eventual release.

Families can stay connected with loved ones at NCDPS - Central Prison through approved communication channels. All mail, phone calls, and visits at maximum-security facilities are subject to strict monitoring. Review the communication and visitation sections below before contacting an inmate housed here.

Facility Type and Security Level

NCDPS - Central Prison is an adult state facility operating at a maximum level of security. Maximum-security institutions feature reinforced perimeters, armed towers, controlled movement, and heightened supervision protocols. Programming and visitation are available but may be more restricted than at lower-security facilities.

How to Contact an Inmate at NCDPS - Central Prison

Send Mail

Mail letters and greeting cards to:

Phone Calls

NCDPS - Central Prison manages inmate phone calls through Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork. Inmates make outgoing collect calls — they cannot receive incoming calls. Set up a prepaid account with the approved carrier before any calls can be received. All calls are recorded and monitored. Read our inmate phone setup guide for instructions.

How to Send Money

Send money to the inmate's commissary trust account using one of the following state-approved methods:

The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction uses JPay to process inmate trust fund deposits. Money deposited here lets your loved one purchase commissary items, phone time, and other approved products from within the facility.

Read our full inmate money guide for detailed instructions.

Visitation Guide for NCDPS - Central Prison

Visitation at maximum-security facilities is permitted but subject to stricter protocols than lower-security prisons. Review all rules before planning your visit. For the most current hours, contact the facility at 919-733-0800.

Getting Approved

All visitors must be on the inmate's approved visitor list before arriving. A background check fee of $25 applies for most first-time adult visitors. Children under 18 are typically exempt. Submit your application well in advance — approval can take several days to weeks. Download the North Carolina visitor application.

Visitation Rules

• All visitors must present a valid, government-issued photo ID.
• Inmates may have up to 20 people on their approved visitor list.
• A maximum of 6 visitors may be present at one time. Requests for more visitors require written approval at least 30 days in advance.
• All visitors, personal belongings, and vehicles are subject to search.
• No food, beverages, electronic devices, or cameras are permitted in the visiting area.
• Dress code is strictly enforced — no revealing clothing, no gang-affiliated colors, no clothing resembling inmate uniforms.
• Inmates may be photographed with family on designated holidays during specified time periods.
• Non-contact visitation may be required for certain inmates based on their classification.
• The deputy warden may deny or terminate any visit at any time for security reasons.

Visitation Timings

Hours are approximate. Confirm with the facility before traveling.