08 Jan Travel Plans? Check with Your Probation or Parole Officer First!
Is traveling on your list of new year resolutions? Missing family members who live far away? If you are on probation or parole, you might be wondering if you can travel. Unfortunately, travel may be complicated. If you meet all the right criteria, then the answer is “maybe.” If your probation or parole agreement does not allow travel, you had better stay home. Breaking parole or violating probation will only have negative consequences.
Can You Travel While on Probation or Parole?
When you go on parole or probation, you are given an agreement to sign. This document details the conditions of your specific sentence. Oftentimes, it includes detailed conditions for travel—especially travel outside the state or outside the country.
For example, high-risk offenders or those on intensive supervision might be denied travel for all reasons. On the other hand, some agreements can include clauses that allow travel for work or family support.
These documents are normally prepared by the courts or the board of clemency at the time you are sentenced to parole or probation. If you are unsure about the exact terms, consult your exit documents or ask your parole or probation officer (PO).
You Need to Get Permission to Travel from Your PO
My Agreement Says I Can Travel—What’s Next?
While it might be tempting to pack those bags and go visit your family and friends, just wait a moment. Even if your agreement says you may travel, you still need express permission from your parole or probation officer.
Any type of travel, whether it’s a vacation or an emergency, requires the permission of your PO. First, you need to make a formal request. This paperwork can be complicated, and it may be months before it’s approved, so you’ll need to plan far in advance. And even if you submit your request in time, it could still be denied by your PO.
There are several reasons why your PO might deny your request:
- Poor behavior
- Non-compliance
- Substance abuse issues
- Travel destination is near a victim’s residence
- Insufficient reason for travel
If you think that your request might be denied, and decide to travel without permission, you could end up back behind bars.
The Consequences of Traveling Without Permission
Violating the terms of your parole or probation could mean:
- Changes in the conditions of your agreement, like earlier curfews, extra drug testing, and more frequent check-ins
- Revocation of parole or probation
- Return to jail or prison for the remainder of your sentence
- Additional fines and fees
- Mandatory participation in counseling programs or drug and alcohol abuse treatment
Need Permission to Travel? A Certified Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
If you’re on parole or probation in the Phoenix area, you need permission from your PO to travel. Our lawyers can help you file a formal request and expedite the process. We can also advise you on the terms of your agreement so you don’t accidentally break any rules.
With over 25 years of experience in criminal defense, Todd Coolidge and his team are the best of the best. If you are looking for a defense lawyer in Scottsdale or Chandler, contact us to request a consultation today.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (1/6/2026). Photo by Surface on Unsplash.