What time inmates are released and how long it takes
What time do they release when its your day to get out and how long does it generally take to get out
Shannon Millsaps
Most inmates are released early in the morning, often sometime between midnight and 8 AM, depending on the facility.
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Most inmates are released early in the morning, often sometime between midnight and 8 AM, depending on the facility.
How long the process takes:
- The actual release processing usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour
- This includes paperwork, returning property, and final checks
What can affect timing:
- The facility’s schedule and staffing
- How many inmates are being released that day
- Final administrative checks
Some inmates are released right at midnight, while others may be processed later in the morning.
Best advice:
If you are picking someone up, it is smart to:
- Check with the facility ahead of time
- Be prepared for a small window of uncertainty
Even though the process itself is fairly quick, the exact release time can vary slightly from one facility to another.
https://www.inmateaid.com/ask-the-inmate/what-time-inmates-are-released-and-how-long-it-takes#answer
Accepted Answer Date Created: November 04,2014
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About this answer:
This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice.
Last reviewed April 2026.