TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Pen packets play a vital role in ensuring clear, consistent communication between county offices and correctional facilities. TDCJ is committed to making reception of inmates from your county as easy as possible within the guidelines of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures. The following information and links will help county officials accurately submit the pen packet.

The Pen Packet Document Checklist is required by Article 42.09, Section 8, of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure with each set of pen packets received for a defendant. The Document Checklist is a streamlined, single document that is amenable to use for prison sentenced, State Jail, or Substance Abuse defendants. Detailed guidelines for completion of the form have been created and made available for your convenience.

In addition to the Document Checklist, Article 42.09, Section 8, requires that all counties submit a judgment completed on a standardized felony judgment form for each commitment. These forms are available through the Office of Court Administration website through the link provided below.

Pen Packet Document Checklist (PDF)
Pen Packet Document Checklist - Time Served (PDF)
Guidelines for Completing the Pen Packet Document Checklist (PDF)
Pen Packet Document Checklist Instructions for Counties (PDF)
County Reimbursement Form (PDF)
County Transportation Requisition Form for County Reimbursement (PDF)
2026 Sheriff's Letter (PDF)
Jail Conduct Report and Authorization to Transfer Form
Transfer of Inmates to TDCJ/Other Jails (PDF)