What Photo ID is Required for Notarization in Virginia?

Dorothy Hayden
Nov 11, 2025
4 min read

When you need a document notarized in Virginia, one of the most important steps is proving your identity. Notaries must verify the signer’s identity before completing notarization to prevent fraud and ensure the document’s validity. But what exactly counts as valid photo ID in Virginia? I’ve gathered clear, practical information to help you prepare for your notarization appointment, whether you visit a traditional notary or use a mobile notary service.

Why Valid Photo ID Matters for Notarization

Notarization is a legal process where a notary public witnesses the signing of important documents. The notary’s job includes confirming the signer’s identity to prevent impersonation or fraud. Without proper identification, the notary cannot proceed.

Virginia law requires the signer to present valid photo identification that clearly shows their name and photograph. This helps the notary confirm the signer is the person named in the document.

Using a mobile notary adds convenience, but the ID requirements remain the same. The notary will ask to see your photo ID in person before notarizing your documents.

What Counts as Valid Photo ID in Virginia?

Virginia’s rules specify the types of photo ID that a notary can accept. The ID must be current or issued within the last five years, contain a photograph, and include the signer’s signature. Here are the most common forms of valid photo ID accepted:

Based on the statute and handbooks, here are acceptable forms of photo ID (must be unexpired, show photo, and preferably signature) for traditional in-person notarizations in Virginia:

A U.S. Passport Book
A U.S. Passport Card
A certificate of U.S. citizenship (with photograph)
A certificate of naturalization (with photograph)
A Foreign passport (with photograph)
An alien registration card with photograph
A state-issued driver’s license (any U.S. state)
A state-issued identification card (with photo)
A U.S. military ID card with photograph and signature

IDs that do not have a photo, such as Social Security cards or birth certificates, are not acceptable for notarization purposes.

How to Prepare Your ID for Notarization

To avoid delays or refusal, make sure your photo ID meets these criteria before your notarization appointment:

The ID must be unexpired or expired within the last five years.
The photo must clearly resemble you.
The name on the ID must match the name on the document you are signing.
The ID must include your signature.

If your ID is expired beyond five years or does not have a photo, the notary will likely refuse to notarize your document. In such cases, you may need to obtain a new ID or use alternative verification methods if allowed.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Valid Photo ID?

If you cannot present valid photo ID, notarization becomes more complicated. Virginia law allows notaries to use credible witnesses to identify the signer, but this requires additional steps:

The credible witness must present their own valid photo ID.
The witness must swear an oath before the notary confirming the signer’s identity.
The notary must record the details of the credible witness in the notarial journal.

This process is less common and may not be accepted for all types of documents, especially those requiring strict identity verification like real estate transactions.

Using CloudSign Notary As Your Mobile Notary in Virginia

As a mobile notary, I travel to your location, which can be very convenient if you have limited mobility or a busy schedule. I will ask to see your valid photo ID in person before notarizing your documents.

Make sure to have your ID ready and in good condition. I carry a digital journal and a paper journal as a best practice. The digital journal allows me to quickly scan your ID, verify it, and add it to my journal of notarizations.

Tips for a Smooth Notarization Experience

To make your notarization process quick and hassle-free, keep these tips in mind:

Check your ID’s expiration date well before your appointment. Renew it if necessary.
Bring the original ID, not a photocopy or digital image.
Match the name on your ID with the document you need notarized. If your name has changed, bring supporting documents like a marriage certificate.
Schedule your appointment with a reputable notary or mobile notary who understands Virginia’s ID requirements.
Ask me in advance if you are not sure, you can always ask me. I keep up to date with Virginia notarial laws.

Summary

Virginia requires anyone signing a document for notarization to present valid photo identification. Acceptable IDs include Virginia driver’s licenses, state ID cards, U.S. passports, military IDs, and certain government employee IDs. The ID must be current or expired within five years, show a clear photo, and include the signer’s signature.

If you lack valid photo ID, notarization may still be possible with credible witnesses, but this adds complexity. There are additional rules for clients who are in long-term care facilities who may be unable to visit the DMV.