You can contact the 1538-bed Main Jail Bureau for information on inmates by calling 954-831-5900, 24 hours a day.
Every misdemeanor and felony arrest in this county results in a trip to this facility for booking and processing. If the charges require detention, the inmate stays here until they are bonded out, released on their own recognizance, or held pending the outcome of their trial.
To view who is currently in custody, use the inmate search tool.
Inmates serving a sentence of less than one year stay in this county. Inmates serving longer sentences are sent to the Florida State Prison System or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
This page describes the visitation schedule, how to add money to an inmate’s account, mail an inmate, receive calls, use voicemail, email and text, rent a tablet, post a bail bond, and order commissary.
Save the inmate’s booking number or jail ID, since you’ll need it for communication. If it’s not available online, call Main Jail Bureau at 954-831-5900.
Phone: 954-831-5900
Physical Address:
555 SE 1st Ave.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301
Mailing Address (personal mail):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate's Arrest Number
Central Intake Bureau
PO Box 9356
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310
Mailing Address (legal mail or subscriptions):
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate's Arrest Number
Central Intake Bureau
PO Box 9356
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310
Other Jails and Prisons
Whether you need an inmate’s charges, bond amount, visitation eligibility, or mugshot, you can find it on the Official Jail Inmate Roster for the Main Jail Bureau. The jail can also be reached at 954-831-5900. For warrants, search the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s wanted persons list, which covers Broward County and the rest of the state. For court records, check whether Broward County is among the counties on the online court records portal.
Main Jail Bureau Inmate Search
Most defendants in Broward County have a constitutional right to pretrial release on reasonable conditions, with exceptions for capital and life felonies where the proof is evident and for cases where no conditions would protect the community. Many misdemeanor and traffic arrests end with a notice to appear rather than bail. For other charges, the Florida Supreme Court’s uniform statewide bond schedule sets the minimum bond.
To get an inmate’s bail, call the Main Jail Bureau at 954-831-5900. If you know what they were arrested for, the Florida uniform statewide bond schedule for 2026 can help you estimate it, but local circuits can set higher amounts and the judge at first appearance can change the bond. Cash, surety bonds, and property bonds are accepted, and personal recognizance release is an option.
The Main Jail Bureau is licensed for 1538 inmates, but it often must make room for many more, especially on weekends. Most city and county jails in Florida turn over at least 35-40% of their population monthly, 25-30% more every 90 days, and 15-20% more every six months, and about 8-9% remain six to twelve months. Inmates held longer than twelve months are usually facing serious charges like rape or murder. Because those cases take longer to prepare for trial, offenders arrested in this county remain in custody at one of the Broward County facilities much longer.
Every year, approximately 153,620 offenders are arrested and detained by Broward County law enforcement agencies.
See photos of the jail that we’ve collected over the years.
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Main Jail Bureau is managed by the Broward Sheriff's Office which also oversees four other jails in the County: Joseph V. Conte Facility, North Broward Bureau, Central Intake Bureau, and the Paul Rein Detention Facility. At this jail, inmates are either waiting to be sentenced or they are serving time for one year or less than one year.
The Main Jail Bureau is the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) jail at 555 SE 1st Avenue in downtown Fort Lauderdale, right beside the Broward County Courthouse. It is the starting point for almost everyone arrested in Broward County, because it houses Central Intake, where people are booked, along with classification, an infirmary and the Department of Detention’s administrative offices. The eight-story, maximum-security building opened in 1985 at a cost of $41.6 million. It was designed for 864 people and, after upgrades in 1988 and 1992, can hold 1,538. BSO says it also keeps separate housing for about 65 juveniles whose cases are in adult court. The main number for all BSO jails is (954) 831-5900.
After an arrest anywhere in the county, the person is brought to Central Intake, where BSO records property, does a medical screening, takes fingerprints and a photo, and checks for warrants. Anyone not released on bond goes before a magistrate judge within 24 hours of arrest, weekends included, as Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.130 requires. BSO says these hearings usually start at 8 a.m., and family members can watch them on monitors in the Main Jail lobby. Broward County is its own judicial circuit, the 17th. In misdemeanor cases the judge may accept a plea and release someone on their own recognizance or for time served. Minor misdemeanors often end with a notice to appear.
Under Article I, Section 14 of the Florida Constitution, most people are entitled to pretrial release on reasonable conditions. The exceptions are capital or life felonies where the proof is evident or the presumption great, and cases where no condition can protect the community. Before first appearance, bond amounts come from the Florida Supreme Court’s 2026 uniform bond schedule (AOSC25-69), in effect January 1 through December 31, 2026. The schedule sets minimum amounts. The 17th Circuit’s chief judge can set higher local amounts, and the first appearance judge isn’t bound by the schedule. Some serious charges require seeing a judge before any release (sections 903.011, 903.046 and 907.041, Florida Statutes).
BSO’s bond page says the Cash Bond window takes payments in person from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. every day, with no fee for cash. You can also pay by money order or cashier’s check showing the defendant’s name and arrest number, or by card online through BSO’s e-billexpress portal, which adds a 2.5% fee. The Cash Bond Unit’s numbers are (954) 982-6924 and (954) 982-6925. The information window in the Main Jail lobby is open 24 hours for charge and bond questions. The other option is a licensed bail bond agent, and BSO posts a list of local agents in the Visitor’s Lobby. Florida law requires agents to charge exactly the premium rate filed with and approved by the state (section 648.33), and the premium generally isn’t returned when the case ends.
To find someone, use BSO’s Arrest Search, which updates every 15 minutes and shows the person’s arrest number, location and bond information. For warrants, check the FDLE statewide wanted persons search, but not every active warrant appears there. If you’re worried about one in Broward, call BSO or a defense attorney. BSO’s FAQ gives the Main Jail mailing address as PO Box 9356, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310. Mail rules and deposit methods change, so call before you send letters or money. Property can be released to family once the inmate fills out a property voucher naming you. Pickup is 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily with a government-issued photo ID. Care packs can be ordered through Access SecurePak at (800) 546-6283, limited to one every seven days.
BSO’s facility pages send visitors to an inmate visitation page for days, hours and format. We couldn’t confirm the current schedule, vendor or cost, so call (954) 831-5900 before you plan a visit or set up an account.
The jail is about half a mile south of Broward County Transit’s Broward Central Terminal in downtown Fort Lauderdale, where most BCT routes connect. For the closest stop, use the RideBCT app or call BCT at (954) 357-8400. If you’re waiting through a long booking, there’s a McDonald’s at 27 W Broward Blvd and a Subway at 1600 S Andrews Ave. For gas, there’s a Shell at 1144 S Andrews Ave and another Shell at 817 S Federal Hwy.
Once arrested, the person is taken to Main Jail Bureau for booking, a process that confirms identity, assesses charges, and determines if they will be released on their own recognizance, posted for bail, or held until court.
Staying silent is key during this process, as anything spoken can be used as evidence in court. It’s best to wait for legal counsel before responding to questions.
Steps involved in booking at Main Jail Bureau include:
To check on an offender’s bond amount, contact Main Jail Bureau at 954-831-5900.
After an arrest, individuals are brought to Main Jail Bureau in Ft. Lauderdale for processing. Following this, three possible outcomes exist:
1. The individual may be released without posting bail, with a promise to appear in court.
2. The individual could be held in jail until their court date.
3. Bail or bond can be posted for release; for more information, contact 954-831-5900.
Bail payment can be handled through various means.
To learn more about the bail process in Broward County, Florida, visit the Main Jail Bureau Bail Page.
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How Do You Visit an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau? What is the Schedule?
Schedule Video Visits online with Securus
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| MONDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| MONDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
Video Visitation allows 'approved' friends, family members, attorneys and clergy of an inmate to connect with them using their computer, Securus Video Visitation app, or ‘on-site’ kiosk.
Steps:
Register and/or log in.
Select the facility of your inmate.
Review the days, available hours and the cost of remote and on-site visits.
Schedule your visit.
What is the Cost of a Remote Video Visit?
Costs vary and are subject to change, but generally visits range from $5.00 to $15.00 for a 15 to 30 minute online or on-site video visit.
How do you know if your Inmate will be available during the time you schedule?
The Securus system knows the times that Main Jail Bureau inmates are available for remote video visits.
It will not allow you to schedule a visit with your inmate if they are not available or the video visitation kiosk(s) in the jail are booked already.
Once you schedule a visit with your inmate they will be notified of the date and time of the visit.
Important Tips:
Your entire visit is being monitored and recorded. Do not say or do anything that you would not want being replayed in court.
You should schedule your visit, in advance, at a time that works best for you.
For best sound quality, use earbuds or headsets.
Quick & Easy Access to Important Information & Help:
Phone: 972-734-1111 or 877-578-3658
Video Tutorial on Registering for Securus Video Visits.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Main Jail Bureau Pricing.
Securus Contact Information.
iphone app
Android app
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Inmate Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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Can I Use My Computer or Phone to Have a Remote Video Visit with an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau?
Schedule Video Visits online with Securus
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| MONDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| DAY | TIME |
| SUNDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| MONDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| TUESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| WEDNESDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| THURSDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| FRIDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
| SATURDAY | 7:45AM - 1:45PM 3:45PM - 9:45PM |
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Video Remote Visitation Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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How Do You Deposit Money for an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau?
1. Online - Making a deposit using a verified Visa or Mastercard online, or using their Apple or Android App.
2. By phone - Dial 866.345.1884 to reach their 24/7 Access Corrections domestic call centers.
3. Lobby kiosk - Ask the jail whether it has an Access Corrections kiosk for deposits.
4. By mail - Ask Access Corrections or the jail whether money orders can be mailed, and to what address.
Ask who the money order should be made out to, and include the inmate name and ID number on all money orders.
5. Walk-in Cash Deposits - Ask the Main Jail Bureau whether it accepts cash deposits in person, and where.
Secure Deposits - Frequently Asked Questions
Secure Deposits - Video Tutorial on How it Works
Secure Deposits - Help Pages
Customer Service Contacts:
Phone: 866-345-1884
Email: customerservice@accesscorrections.com
Online Chat - Look for 'bubble' on bottom right of the page linked here.
To send commissary money to an inmate in Main Jail Bureau follow these steps:
For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for Main Jail Bureau.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Inmate Money and Trust Fund Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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How Do I Receive Phone Calls from an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau?
To set up a phone account so that your inmate can call you from Broward County do the following:
1. Enroll in an account with Securus Technologies.
2. Choose one of three account types, Securus Debit, Advance Connect or Direct Bill.
3. Choose Main Jail Bureau, then connect with your inmate.
4. If you have any questions, call Securus: 972-734-1111 or 800-844-6591.
To find out fees, how to's, calling times, limits on phone calls and other systems Securus has do that you can communicate with your Broward County inmate, check out our Inmate Phone Page.
NOTE: All of your inmate's phone calls are recorded and stored. It is advised not to discuss their pending case.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Inmate Phone Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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How do I Mail an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau, and what can I send them?
Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate's Arrest Number
Central Intake Bureau
PO Box 9356
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310
Letters in envelopes are NOT allowed.
** Legal Mail is exempt from this. Incoming and outgoing legal mail can be on letters, and in envelopes.
Unacceptable Postcard forms:
Mailing Address:
Inmate's Full Name & Inmate's Arrest Number
Central Intake Bureau
PO Box 9356
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33310
Letters in envelopes are NOT allowed.
** Legal Mail is exempt from this. Incoming and outgoing legal mail can be on letters, and in envelopes.
Unacceptable Postcard forms:
For full information on exactly what you can mail an inmate in Broward County, and where to send it, check out our Inmate Mail page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Inmate Mail Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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Can I purchase Commissary Online for an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau, and what can I purchase?
Access Securepak's catalog groups items into categories such as:
- Food and Snacks
- Personal Hygiene Products
- Electronics
- Apparel
Registration Process:
1. Register here.
2. Select Florida.
3. Select Main Jail Bureau.
4. Find your Inmate.
5. Deposit Funds.
6. Order Commissary Items.
Once you are logged in, you will receive instructions on how much (and what products) you can send your inmate.
Contact Information:
* If you have any questions, you can call Access Securepak at 800-546-6283.
* You can email My Care Pack at customerservice@securepak.net.
* You can write them at:
Access Securepak
10880 Linpage Place
St. Louis, MO 63132
* You can Live Chat with a Representative online: (bottom left corner of page)
Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m. CST,
and Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. CST.
*Note* Access Securepak will issue a refund for or replace broken, damaged, or missing products reported by Main Jail Bureau staff. They will not honor reports of discrepancies from inmate's families or friends. They have a very good mix of Chips, Snacks, Candy, Meat, Seafood, Hygiene products, Letter writing materials, Electronics and Apparel items for sale on their website.
*NOTE* -- Once you are fully registered and have selected the inmate you wish to send commissary to, you will receive instructions on how much you can deposit, how much (and what) you can purchase for your inmate, and how often you can send commissary.
To send commissary money to an inmate in Main Jail Bureau follow these steps:
For all information on how to Send Money to an inmate's account check out our full money and commissary guide for Main Jail Bureau.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Commissary Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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How Can I Communicate with an Inmate in the Main Jail Bureau using an Online Messaging Service?
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Text and Email Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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Do Inmates in the Main Jail Bureau have Access to Tablets or Computers?
The tablets can be rented on a monthly basis and while not directly connected to the internet, the inmates can use them for the following activities:
Here's how it works:
Questions:
To rent a tablet for an inmate in Broward County follow these instructions:
If you have any questions:
For all Broward County information on Tablet Rentals for your inmate, check out our Tablet Rental Page.
We’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for everything you need to know about Main Jail Bureau’s Tablet Policies, Rules and Guidelines. If you still have questions after reviewing these FAQs, call 954-831-5900 for further assistance.
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What are the other City and County Jails in Broward County?
What are the other Jails in the Neighboring Counties surrounding Broward County?
