How to get a West Virginia Driver's License
Find out how to get a new WV driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this West Virginia DMV guide.
The Rules
Under WV DMV guidelines, you must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a West Virginia Drivers License.
All applicants need to be familiar with the West Virginia Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
If you are over 18, you must hold a learner's permit at least 30 days before you can receive a driver's license.
If you are under age 18, you must have held a learners permit for 180 days and your parent or guardian must certify that you received at least 30 hours of driving practice before taking the road skills test.
New WV Residents
New residents with out-of-state license must obtain a West Virginia within 30 days of establishing a permanent residence in WV. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
A vision test and an alcohol awareness course are required to change a valid out-of-state license to a WV driver's license; however the written test is waived if you are over 18.
If your out-of-state driver's license is expired, you will be required to take all examination tests, vision, written and road skills.
International Drivers
Motorists who are residents of other nations and who are bona fide tourists visiting the United States may drive up to 90 days with their own driver license.
If you are a holder of a valid foreign driver license and wish to convert to a West Virginia driver license, you must take and pass all required tests (vision, driver knowledge, road skills).
Paperwork
Before you head to the West Virginia DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class E driver's license will be valid for 5 years. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
West Virginia Driver's Manual |
