California Medical Facility Inmate Search gives families, attorneys, and researchers fast access to real-time custody data for inmates housed at the California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville. This service connects users to the official California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS) portal, maintained by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The system updates every night, offering accurate details like full legal name, CDCR number, birthdate, housing unit, sentencing county, admission date, parole hearing schedules, and disciplinary history. CMF is a medium-security prison that also functions as a state-run medical center, caring for about 1,700 inmates with serious health needs in a 120-bed infirmary, dialysis unit, and specialty clinics.
How California Medical Facility Inmate Search Works
The search tool uses the CIRIS database, which pulls live data from CDCR’s internal offender management system. To use it, enter the inmate’s full name, CDCR number, or known alias. Results show current housing location, medical status, projected release date, and upcoming parole hearings. The system only displays information for individuals currently in CDCR custody. All searches require agreement to CDCR’s terms, which ban commercial use and require secure handling of personal data. No registration is needed, and the service is free for the public.
What Information Is Available Through the Search
Each search returns key details about the inmate’s status. This includes their full legal name, unique CDCR identification number, date of birth, and current housing unit within CMF. The system also shows the county that sentenced them, the date they entered the prison system, and any scheduled Board of Parole Hearings. Previous hearing outcomes and disciplinary records are included when available. Medical inmates may have additional notes about treatment plans or restrictions, especially if they affect visitation or movement within the facility.
California Medical Facility: A Medical Prison in Vacaville
The California Medical Facility (CMF) sits on an 80-acre campus in Vacaville, Solano County. Opened in 1955, it serves as both a medium-security prison and a full-service medical center for incarcerated adults. The facility holds around 2,300 inmates, with roughly 1,700 receiving active medical care. Services include a 120-bed infirmary, a dialysis unit, an on-site pharmacy, and clinics for cardiology, orthopedics, and infectious diseases. Outpatient care is available for less severe cases, and some services are offered to eligible community members through a partnership with the California Department of Public Health.
https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/cmf/ 
Visitation Rules and Inmate Roster Details
Visits at CMF happen on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All visitors must bring a government-issued photo ID and complete electronic check-in. Approval from the inmate’s case manager is required before arrival. The official visitation roster, published by Prisonroster, lists each inmate’s housing unit, admission date, and any medical restrictions that could limit contact. Random security inspections occur during visits to ensure safety. Violations may lead to temporary suspension of visitation rights.
https://prisonroster.com/prisons/california/state/california-medical-facility/
Using StateCourts for Broader California Inmate Data
StateCourts compiles inmate records from all California correctional agencies, including CDCR, county jails, and conservation camps. It shows identifiers, sentencing details, and parole eligibility dates. The site also highlights the state’s 44 conservation-fire camps, where low-risk offenders assist with wildfire suppression and forest management. These camps are run by CDCR’s Conservation Programs Division and offer vocational training. As of 2024, California’s prison system holds about 131,000 people across 35 adult prisons, 58 county jails, and the camp network.
https://www.statecourts.org/inmate-search/california/
CMF Inmate Records on StateCourts
According to StateCourts, CMF opened in 1955 and currently holds about 2,400 inmates, making it the sixth-largest prison in California. Its official capacity is 2,361 beds, based on a 2023 CDCR audit. The facility falls under the Vacaville judicial district, which has no other correctional sites. The latest medical report shows over 4,500 surgical procedures, 12,000 medication administrations, and an average stay of 180 days for medical inmates.
https://www.statecourts.org/inmate-search/california/solano-county/california-medical-facility-cmf/
Step-by-Step: How to Search for an Inmate at CMF
Start by visiting the CMF inmate lookup page. Enter the inmate’s full legal name, CDCR number, or alias into the search fields. Click “Submit” to run the query. The system checks the CDCR database and returns results with housing location, medical status, projected release date, and parole hearing dates. A printable summary appears after the search. Authorized users can request additional records via a secure email link to CDCR’s Records Division.
https://inmate-lookup.org/california/state-prison/california-medical-facility-cmf
Mail and Money Order Guidelines for Other CDCR Facilities
While CMF handles its own inmate search, other facilities like the California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) have specific mail rules. Send general mail to: California Rehabilitation Center, Inmate Name / CDCR Number / Dorm & Bed, P.O. Box 3535, Norco, CA 92860. Money orders go to: CRC, Inmate Name / CDCR Number / Dorm & Bed, P.O. Box 2000, Norco, CA 92860. Funds appear in the inmate’s trust account within 48 hours and can be used for calls, commissary, or legal fees.
https://www.cdcr.ca.gov/facility-locator/crc/
Jail Exchange: Inmate Profiles and Transfer Tracking
Jail Exchange offers detailed profiles for CMF inmates, using data from CDCR records, court filings, and public safety notices. Each profile lists the inmate’s offense, sentence length, and transfer history. If an inmate is convicted of a federal crime, the site notes the transfer to a federal penitentiary and links to the Federal Bureau of Prisons locator. Updates occur weekly to reflect custody changes, parole eligibility, and medical classifications.
https://www.jailexchange.com/state-prisons/california/california-medical-facility/inmatesearch
Inmate Information Center: Phone Support for Families
The Inmate Information Center provides phone support for custody and medical questions. Call (213) 473-6100 for general inquiries about inmate location and housing. For urgent medical concerns, dial (213) 893-5544 to reach the Medical Command Center. This line connects directly to on-site health staff who manage emergency care, medication changes, and specialist referrals for medically fragile inmates.
Monterey County Sheriff’s Office: Jail Operations
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Detention Division runs the Main Jail and Rehabilitation Facility. It handles intake, classification, housing, and release for adult inmates. The Classification Unit uses a scoring system based on criminal history, mental health, and program participation to assign inmates to minimum-security rehab units or the main jail. Combined capacity is 1,200 beds for both sentenced and pretrial individuals.
https://montereysheriff.org/detention/
Phone Communication at CMF
Inmates at CMF cannot receive incoming calls. However, they can make outbound calls using prepaid calling cards, collect call services, or the “Inmate Voice” program. The facility’s main phone number is (707) 448-6841, which connects to the call scheduling desk. All calls are monitored and recorded per CDCR policy. Families should not expect to receive calls without prior arrangement.
https://prisonhandbook.com/8263/california-medical-facility/
Why California Medical Facility Inmate Search Matters
For families and legal professionals, knowing an inmate’s status is critical. Medical inmates often have complex health needs that require regular updates. The search tool ensures transparency and timely access to vital information. It also helps prevent misinformation by relying on official CDCR data. With nightly updates, users can trust the results reflect the most current custody and medical status.
Common Challenges and How to Solve Them
Some users struggle to find inmates if they use nicknames or misspellings. Always use the full legal name or CDCR number when possible. If no results appear, the inmate may be in a county jail, federal prison, or recently transferred. Contact the Inmate Information Center for help. Delays in updates are rare but can happen during system maintenance. Try again the next day if data seems outdated.
Data Privacy and Legal Compliance
CDCR takes data privacy seriously. The CIRIS portal requires users to agree to terms that prohibit sharing or selling inmate information. Personal data must be handled securely, especially when discussing medical conditions. Unauthorized use can result in legal action. Always follow CDCR guidelines when using search results for legal, medical, or family purposes.
How CMF Compares to Other Medical Prisons
CMF is one of the largest medical prisons in the U.S. Unlike general population facilities, it has full-time doctors, surgeons, and specialists on staff. Most medical inmates stay for months due to chronic conditions. Other states have similar units, but California’s system is unique for its size and integration with public health services. CMF also participates in research and training programs with medical schools.
Visiting a Loved One: What to Expect
Visits require advance approval. Arrive early to complete check-in. Bring only approved items—no phones, bags, or food. Dress modestly. Security may inspect visitors and belongings. If the inmate is under medical isolation, visits may be denied or moved to non-contact booths. Always confirm visitation status before traveling.
Reentry and Parole Support
CMF offers reentry programs for inmates nearing release. These include job training, counseling, and housing assistance. Parole hearings are scheduled based on sentence length and behavior. The Board of Parole Hearings reviews medical status when deciding release dates. Inmates with serious health issues may qualify for medical parole under California law.
Emergency Medical Situations
In life-threatening cases, CDCR coordinates with local hospitals. Families should call (213) 893-5544 immediately. Provide the inmate’s CDCR number and describe the emergency. Medical staff will verify identity and take action. Updates may be limited due to privacy laws, but urgent cases are prioritized.
Technology Behind the Search System
The CIRIS portal uses secure servers and encrypted connections. Data is pulled nightly from CDCR’s central offender database. The system is designed for high traffic and includes safeguards against misuse. Search results are cached for speed but refreshed each day to ensure accuracy. No personal login is required, making it accessible to all.
Accuracy and Limitations of Inmate Search Tools
While the system is reliable, errors can occur. Name variations, recent transfers, or data entry mistakes may cause mismatches. Always double-check the CDCR number. If information seems wrong, contact CDCR’s Records Division. The search does not include inmates in private facilities or those released more than 30 days ago.
Resources for Legal Professionals
Attorneys can request certified records through the secure email link on the lookup page. These documents are admissible in court. For discovery requests, use the official CDCR form and include the inmate’s CDCR number. Processing takes 3–5 business days. Urgent requests require a court order.
Public Access and Transparency
California law mandates public access to inmate records. The CIRIS portal fulfills this requirement by offering free, real-time data. This promotes accountability and helps prevent abuse. However, sensitive details like mental health diagnoses are redacted to protect privacy. The balance between transparency and confidentiality is maintained through strict CDCR policies.
Future Improvements to the Search System
CDCR is testing mobile-friendly versions of the search tool. Future updates may include text alerts for custody changes and multilingual support. Feedback from users helps shape these improvements. The goal is to make inmate search faster, clearer, and more accessible for all Californians.
Related Search Terms and Helpful Links
Other useful searches include county jail lookups, federal inmate locators, and background check services. These tools help track individuals across different systems. Always verify which agency holds the person before searching. Misplaced searches waste time and cause confusion.
Hampden County Jail Inmate Search
Docs Orange Beach
Christian Chest Tattoos
Columbus MS Inmate Search
Official Contact Information
California Medical Facility
1000 California Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: (707) 448-6841
Visiting Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Inmate Information Center: (213) 473-6100
Medical Emergency Line: (213) 893-5544
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how to use California Medical Facility Inmate Search, what information is available, and how to contact inmates. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on official CDCR policies and real user experiences.
How often is the California Medical Facility Inmate Search updated?
The CIRIS database refreshes every night using data from CDCR’s internal systems. This means search results reflect the most recent custody status, housing assignments, and parole schedules. Updates occur between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. Pacific Time. If you search in the morning, you’ll see data from the previous night. This nightly cycle ensures accuracy without overloading the system. No manual refresh is needed—results are always current as of the last update.
Can I search for an inmate using only their first and last name?
Yes, but results may include multiple matches if names are common. For best results, use the full legal name or CDCR number. If you only have a partial name, try adding a birth year or sentencing county to narrow results. The system does not support wildcard searches, so spelling must be exact. If no match appears, the person may be in a different facility or recently released.
Why can’t I find an inmate who was recently transferred to CMF?
Transfers between facilities can take 24–48 hours to appear in the search system. During this time, the inmate may show as “in transit” or not listed at all. Check again the next day. If the inmate still doesn’t appear, contact the Inmate Information Center at (213) 473-6100. Provide their CDCR number and last known location for faster assistance.
Are medical records included in the inmate search results?
Basic medical status is shown, such as whether an inmate is in the infirmary or has mobility restrictions. Full medical records are not public due to privacy laws. Only authorized medical staff, attorneys with court orders, or family members with written consent can access detailed health information. For emergencies, call (213) 893-5544.
Can I send money to an inmate at CMF through the search portal?
No, the search tool only provides information. To send money, use JPay or MoneyGram with the inmate’s CDCR number. Mail money orders to the trust account address listed on the CDCR website. Do not send cash. Funds are available within 48 hours. The search portal does not process payments or link to financial services.
What should I do if the search shows incorrect information?
Contact CDCR’s Records Division immediately. Provide the inmate’s CDCR number, your relationship to them, and a description of the error. Include screenshots if possible. CDCR investigates all reports and corrects mistakes within 5 business days. Do not rely on unofficial sites—only CIRIS provides verified data.
Is the California Medical Facility Inmate Search available in other languages?
Currently, the CIRIS portal is only in English. CDCR offers phone interpretation services for non-English speakers. Call the Inmate Information Center and request a translator. Future updates may include Spanish and Vietnamese support based on user demand and state funding.