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What ID Do I Need to Visit Someone at River North? Acceptable Photo IDs Explained

Getting your ID sorted before you head to River North Correctional Center makes the whole visit go smoother. Here's what counts as acceptable photo ID for in-person visits — and what you'll need for video visitation.

• 2 min read • vadoc.virginia.gov
What ID Do I Need to Visit Someone at River North? Acceptable Photo IDs Explained

For in-person visits at River North, bring at least one valid picture ID. It needs to match the information on your visitation application exactly. Staff check your ID to confirm you're the approved visitor - even small mismatches can hold things up or get you turned away.

A valid driver’s license is an acceptable photo ID for visitation. If this is the ID you used on your application, bring that same license with you.

A passport works as photo ID only if you don't live in the United States. U.S. residents should bring another form of government-issued photo ID instead.

Military ID is also accepted. Just make sure the details match what you submitted on your visitation application.

Don't have a driver's license or military ID? Any official picture ID from a federal or state agency works. The key requirements: it must be government-issued, include your photo, and match the information on your application.

What ID Do I Need to Visit Someone at River North? Acceptable Photo IDs Explained

For video visits, the ID rule is simple: anyone 18 or older needs a valid, government-issued picture ID to participate. No valid ID means no visit - even if everything else is set up correctly.

When registering for video visitation, use your legal name. Nicknames or shortened versions can cause approval problems and delays.

  1. Log into the GTL system early - if you’re doing home internet video visitation, be logged in at least 15 minutes before the visit start time.
  1. Arrive early at the Visitor Center - if you’re using an AFOI Visitor Center for your video visit, get there at least 20 minutes before your scheduled visit.

Practical Tips

  • ✓ Bring the same valid picture ID you used on your visitation application.
  • ✓ If you have one, carry a backup option that qualifies as an official picture ID issued by a federal or state agency.
  • ✓ Double-check that your name and other identifying details match what’s on your visitation application.

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More from River North Correctional Center, Va

How to Apply for Visiting Approval at River North Correctional Center (and Keep It Active)

Visiting at River North Correctional Center starts with approval from Virginia DOC's Central Visitation Unit. Know what they check and when renewals are due, and you'll avoid surprise interruptions that could derail your visits.

How to Apply for Visiting Approval at River North Correctional Center (step‑by‑step)

Before you can visit anyone at River North, you need approval through Virginia DOC's online visitor application system. Once you understand which form to use and when renewals are due, the process becomes straightforward.

How to Schedule a Visit at River North Correctional Center (and what to check before you drive)

Once you're approved, you can book an in-person visit through the online Visitation Scheduler. The booking window opens 14 days in advance - enough time to plan, but not so far out that you can schedule months ahead. One limit to keep in mind: you're allowed one visit per weekend. If you're juggling rides, childcare, or multiple family members who want to come, choose your date carefully so you don't accidentally use up your slot.