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West Virginia Driver’s License Guide

West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

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Page 1: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

West VirginiaDriver’s License Guide

Page 2: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

ContentsTable of

11

Numbers

4

Starting the Journey

Getting Your First West Virginia License

Replacing Your License

Official Forms

Getting an West Virginia ID Card

Starting the Journey

Updating Your License Information

Renewing Your License

Reinstating Your License

Vehicle Safety Tips

3

11

14

16

18

19

21

22

26

DMV Hours and Locations

27

Page 2

Page 3: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Starting the Journey

Welcome to the world of driving in West Virginia! Obtaining your license is one of the most gratifying moments in your life. Our purpose of this guide is to make sure you get to that moment with as little stress or complications as possible. Getting your driver’s license in West Virginia requires preparation and practice, but it can be simple with the right resources. That is where we come in, we are here to help you know exactly what it is you need to prepare and how to prepare it properly.

Before you can obtain your full-fledged license, the state needs to ensure that you know how to drive, know the rules of the road, and have proper identification. Since your license will become your primary form of identification, this means you need to have other forms of identification ready to present to the DMV. No worries, though. Our guide will list all the information you need to apply for your license with the DMV.

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Page 4: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

All Drivers When you begin driving, you not only take on the responsibility for your safety, but you also take on the responsibility of the safety of your passengers and all passengers in the vehicles around you. So, in order to best prepare yourself to take on that responsibility, it is always wise to first obtain your learner’s permit to be able to learn to drive properly. However, it is required for teen drivers to obtain a learner’s permit before they qualify to obtain a license.

To understand how to obtain your learner’s permit, read the steps below:

Provide ONE proof of your Social Security Number, along with your full legal name:

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Form

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Visit the DMV office.

Fill out the Application for a Driver’s license or Photo ID Card Form (Form DMV-DS-23P).

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

Pay the fee or additional $10 fee for a REAL ID Card.

After you complete the above steps, you will receive a temporary learner’s permit from the DMV office. Your permanent learner permit should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise contact the DMV office.

Your permit will be valid for 90 days, but you only have to hold onto it for 30 days before you can apply for a driver’s license. During those 30 days, you must be accompanied by a valid driver who is 21 years or older while you drive.

Vision Exam

Getting your vision checked before you obtain your learner’s permit or driver’s license is essential to ensure that you are physically capable of driving. The exam is very straight forward and will only require that you have a minimum vision of 20/40. Otherwise, if you fail your vision exam, you will be required to get corrective lenses. It will state on your license whether you must drive while wearing corrective lenses by having a code representing “corrective lenses” for any officials who see your license.

If you are not able to pass the vision test, even with corrective lenses, you need to have an eye doctor examine you and fill out a Vision Specialist’s Exam Results and Certification (DLAB-II Form) outlining the conditions of

Provide TWO proofs of your West Virginian residency:

• Utility Bills, within the last 60 days

• Rental Documents

Pass the vision test.

Pass the written test.

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Page 5: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

your vision to drive. This statement will then be reviewed by the Driver’s license Advisory Board, whom will then decide what action to take based on your conditions.

If you have any questions regarding the vision screening test, please contact the DMV office or take a look at the West Virginia Driver Licensing Handbook.

Written Exam

When it comes to obtaining your learner’s permit, you need to take a written exam first. At first, it may seem intimidating to take the exam, but once you understand how the process goes, it will be less frightening to you. In order to prepare for the written exam, you will need to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages for those who are not fluent in English and require language assistance. All the information you need to study to prepare for the test can be found in the West Virginia Driver Licensing Handbook.

Windshield wipers

All lights

Tires

Brakes

Windows

Exhaust system

Speedometer

Driving Test

Taking a driving test is necessary in order for the DMV to determine your driving skills level. The first part of the exam involves a safety check which ensures your vehicle measures up to state standards. When you go take your driving test, you are required to provide a vehicle that is both insured and passes the safety requirements. You will also need to make an appointment with the DMV office in order to take the driving test.

Continue to read the points below to understand better what will happen during your test from start to finish! This the first part of the driving test in which the examiner will inspect and make sure that all of the necessary parts of your vehicle function properly and are not a risk to you or any passengers both in the car and on the road. Things that must work on the car include:

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Page 6: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Afterwards, the examiner will ask you to showcase some basic vehicle control skills by doing the following:

Mirrors

Horn

Defroster

Safety belts

Check for traffic properly

Left and right side parallel park

Forward and reverse two-point turnabout

Three-point turnabout

Use the correct turn signals

Once the road test begins, the examiner will judge and grade you based on your ability to obey instructions and perform the tasks, such as:

Keeping proper driving posture

Checking traffic

Changing lanes

Entering an intersection

Backing up

Proper steering

Obeying traffic signs

Breaking properly

Starting and stopping the vehicle

Any other instructions the examiner gives you during the test

Overall, the driving test will take up to an hour depending on the weather conditions and how well-prepared you are to take the test. You won’t be required to know anything beyond the standard knowledge and skill on how to operate a vehicle.

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Page 7: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Teen Drivers If you’re a teenager on the brink of entering adulthood, then, chances are you’re currently dreaming of obtaining your driver’s license. Well, we are here to help you to make that dream a reality! In each step moving towards obtaining your license, we will outline and help you to better understand each procedure you must complete. As a new driver, it is important that you carefully read through each step and fully understand how everything operates. This is to ensure that you avoid any complications, but also to be sure that you are well prepared to take on your responsibilities on the road.

Step 1: Level 1 License – Learner’s Permit

In order to begin your journey of attaining your license as a teen, you must first obtain your driver’s permit. You must be at least 15 years old before you are eligible to apply for your learner’s permit in West Virginia. Your permit will be valid until you turn 18 years old and you have up to 30 days after your birthday to obtain your intermediate before your permit expires and becomes invalid. If you take longer than the time given, you will be required to obtain your permit from the beginning again. To see what steps you must take to obtain your learner’s permit, please read the steps below:

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

• Pass the vision test.

• Pass the written test.

Visit the DMV office.

Fill out the Application for a Driver’s license or Photo ID Card Form (Form DMV-DS-23P).

Have a parent or legal guardian sign the application.

Provide proof your school enrollment.

Pay the $7.50 fee.

All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

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Page 8: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Step 2: Level 2 License – Intermediate License

After you’ve had your learner’s permit for a time. This license will allow you to continue practicing to drive behind the wheel until you are officially ready to obtain your full driver’s license once you turn 17 years old. This process is fairly simple and will take only a small amount of preparation on your part.

In order to move on to obtain your intermediate driver’s license, you will be required to fulfill the following requirements:

Must be at least 16 years old.

Must have held your learner permit at least six months.

Must have no infractions within the last six months.

Must have completed 50 hours of driver training behind the wheel, including 10 hours at night, certified by a parent, legal guardian, or Driver Education Card.

Follow the steps below to best prepare yourself and obtain your Probationary License:

Visit the DMV office.

Have a parent or legal guardian sign and present your 50 Hour Certification Log for Driver’s license Application under Age 18 Form (Form DMV-10-GDL).

Hand over your learner’s permit.

Provide ONE proof of your school enrollment.

Make an appointment with the DMV office to take the driving test.

Pass the driving test.

Pay the $7.50 fee.

After you complete the above steps, you will receive a temporary driver’s license from the DMV office. Your permanent driver’s license should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise please contact the DMV office.

Step 3: Level 3 License – Full License

You have up to 30 days after you turn 21 to renew your license. To obtain your license though you simply need to make sure you fulfill the necessary criteria which mainly address the time you must wait before applying. These requirements include the following:

Must be at least 17 years old.

Must have held your intermediate license for at least a year.

Must have no infractions within the last year.

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Page 9: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Except for headlamp or improper backing violations.

If you have the above accomplished, then you are ready to apply to obtain your driver’s license. All you have to do is complete the following steps:

Visit the DMV office.

Hand over your intermediate license.

Pay the $2.50 yearly fee plus a $0.50 motor voter fee until you turn 21 years old.

Must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older with who holds a valid license.

Must not have more than two passengers who are non-immediate family members including your adult supervisor.

Must only drive between the hours of 5 A.M. to 10 P.M.

• Must be supervised by an adult 21 years or older with a valid license when driving between the hours of 5 A.M. to 10 P.M.

During the first six months, you must not drive with any passengers younger than 20 years old who are not immediate family members.

After the first six months, you must not have more than one passenger younger than 20 years old who is not an immediate family member.

All passengers must wear seatbelts.

Must not drive while intoxicated.

All points from tickets received will be applied to your license.

Intermediate License Restrictions

Full License Restrictions

After you complete the above steps you will receive a temporary driver’s license from the DMV office. Your per-manent driver’s license should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise please contact the DMV office.

Restrictions

While you hold your learner’s permit, you have certain restrictions on what you can do while driving depending on the level of your driver’s license. These restrictions are meant to keep you and other drivers safe by preventing the possibility of putting you in a situation in which you are unable to handle at your current skill level.

Please read and follow the restrictions below which were set by the DMV:

Learner Permit Restrictions

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Page 10: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Tip Make sure you verify your address on your documents or temporary license/ID before you leave the BMV, and if it is incorrect notify a BMV representative immediately before you leave.

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Page 11: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Congratulations! If you have gone through the steps of getting your Driver’s Permit in West Virginia, then you are now only one step closer to of obtaining your driver’s license.

And I’m sure you are more than ready to finish the process. Well, no need to worry because the process is almost over! Now it’s only a matter of mastering the art of driving to get your license. All that is required now is that you follow the steps below that best fit your situation to officially hold that brand new license.

Getting YourFirst West Virginia License

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Page 12: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Pay the $5 fee plus $0.50 motor voter fee.

Decide if you want your license to state:

• Federal Identification Use – your driver’s license will have a gold star meaning you will be able to use to enter federal buildings and use it as a form of ID for any other type of government related issue. You are going to receive a temporary license valid for 60 days at the DMV office and have your permanent driver’s license arrive in the mail within 15 business days.

• Not for Federal Identification Use – this will mean you have a standard driver’s license which you will receive immediately at the DMV office.

All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

Make an appointment with the DMV office to take the driving test.

Visit the DMV office to take the driving test and bring along:

• Your vehicle with a valid state inspection sticker

• Your vehicle registration

• Your proof insurance

Pass the driving test.

Adult Drivers: Never Had A Driver’s License If you are 18 years old or older, have never had a license and are now looking to obtaining one, you have come to the right place. Getting a license for first-time drivers is a very simple process through the state of West Virginia, but first, you will have to obtain a learner permit and then follow the steps below on how to apply.

Adult Drivers: New Resident If you already hold a license from another state and have become a new resident of West Virginia, you will need to obtain a West Virginia license within 30 days. It is very important to make sure that you obtain a valid driver’s license within this term; let’s begin so you can obtain your West Virginia license as soon as possible!

Visit the DMV office.

Hand over your out of state license.

Attend an alcohol awareness course.

Pass the vision test.

Pass the written and driving test.

Only required if your out-of-state license is expired.

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

Provide ONE proof of your Social Security Number, along with your full legal name:

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Form

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Page 13: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Decide if you want your license to state:

• Federal Identification Use – your driver’s license will have a gold star meaning you will be able to use to enter federal buildings and use it as a form of idea for any other type of government related issue.

• You are going to receive a temporary license valid for 60 days at the DMV office and have your permanent driver’s license arrive in the mail within 15 business days.

• Not for Federal Identification Use – this will mean you have a standard driver’s license which you will receive immediately at the DMV office.

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Provide TWO proofs of your West Virginian residency:

• Utility Bills, within the last 60 days.

• Rental Documents

• Pay the necessary fee.

All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

Fees The standard fee for Class E driver’s licenses is $5.00 per year plus a $0.50 motor vehicle fee.

Tip Making an appointment for any DMV visit is always advised in order to avoid long lines and the stress of waiting.

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Page 14: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

“Oh no, my license has expired!”

That is something no one ever wants to have to say, as it means you no longer hold a legal license to drive. This means a loss of freedom and the risk of getting a ticket, so it is best to renew your license as soon as you notice the expiration date creeping up on you.

If you are younger than 21 years old, your license will expire when you turn 21 years old. It is possible for you to renew your license up to 90 days before the expiration date. You will have up to six months as a grace period to renew your license after it expires if you are over 21 years old, but if you are turning 21 years old, you only have a 30-day grace period to renew your license. If it expires, you are going to be forced to retake the vision, written, and driving test to renew it.

RenewingYour License

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Page 15: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

In order to renew your driver’s license, you must take the following steps if your license states For Federal Identification:

Visit the DMV office.

Fill out the Application for a Driver’s license or Photo ID Card Form (Form DMV-DS-23P).

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

Provide ONE proof of your Social Security Number, along with your full legal name:

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Form

Decide if you want your license to state:

• Federal Identification Use – this will mean your driver’s license will have a gold star meaning you will be able to use to enter federal buildings and use it as a form of idea for any other type of government related issue.

• You are going to receive a temporary license valid for 60 days at the DMV office and have your permanent driver’s license arrive in the mail within 15 business days.

• Not for Federal Identification Use – this will mean you must have a standard driver’s license which you will receive immediately at the DMV office.

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Provide TWO proofs of your West Virginian residency:

• Utility Bills, within the last 60 days.

• Rental Documents

• Pay the $5 fee plus $0.50 motor voter fee.

If your license states Not for Federal Identification you do not have to provide proof of your identity, Social Security number, and you will only have to provide one proof of residency unless you have changed addresses since your last renewal.

All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

Tip If you are temporarily out of state when your driver’s license expires, you can contact the DMV office at 800-642-9066 for information on how to renew your license from out of state until you return.

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Page 16: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Now your life may be coming to a turning point, which can mean changes both as big as changing your name to a subtler change, such as moving neighborhoods.

Either way, this information is essential to your identification, which includes your driver’s license. So, how can you ensure that these changes are made to your driver’s license should you ever need them to be made? Well, you only need to inform the West Virginia DMV. To better understand the process and steps you have to take, you must follow the steps that best fit your situation below.

Changing Your Name Making the decision to change your name is not only a big personal decision, but it will also greatly affect your documents and general information in regards to your identity. If you have officially changed your name, you will surely be required to change your name on all of your identification documents and cards, including your driver’s license. Now, how to do this is very simple, all you must do is follow the steps below that best apply to your situation:

UpdatingYour License Information

Go to the Social Security Administration office.

Change your name on their files.

Wait up to three days.

Visit the MDV office.

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Follow the steps to obtain in the Replacing Your License section to get a new license.

After you complete the above steps, you will receive a temporary driver’s license from the DMV office. Your permanent driver’s license should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise, please contact the DMV office. All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

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Page 17: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Follow the steps to obtain in the Replacing Your License (link page 12) section to get a new license.

Only necessary want your driver’s license to state your new address.

Changing Your AddressIn the case that you may have recently moved to a new address, it is essential that you update the address on your driver’s license. Now simply follow the steps that best apply to you below:

Visit the DMV office.

Fill out the Change of Address Form (DMV098-TRB Form).

Present your driver’s license.

Tip The DMV offices accept payments in cash, checks, as well as a valid credit or debit card such as MasterCard, Visa, or Discover.

After you complete the above steps, your address will be updated on your DMV file. If you choose to obtain a duplicate license, you will receive a temporary driver’s license from the DMV office. Your permanent driver’s license should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise, please contact the DMV office. All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

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Page 18: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Oh my, something’s happened to your license! What can you do now?

Well the West Virginia DMV will help you in obtaining a new driver’s license as soon as possible in the case that your license may have been lost, stolen, destroyed, or if you never even received your license in the first place. In any case, you will be able to effortlessly replace it with a new duplicate license. All it requires of you is to do a few things:

ReplacingYour License

Visit the DMV office.

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

Provide ONE proof of your Social Security Number:

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Form

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Provide TWO proofs of your West Virginian residency:

• Utility Bills, within the last 60 days.

• Rental Documents

Pay the necessary fee.

You will have to pay an additional $10 if your license was Real ID verified.

However, if your license states Not for Federal Identification you do not have to provide proof of your Social Security number, and you will only have to provide one proof of residency unless you have changed addresses since your last renewal.

After you complete the above steps you will receive a temporary driver’s license from the DMV office. Your permanent driver’s license should arrive in the mail within 10 to 15 business days, otherwise, please contact the DMV office. All other acceptable documents to provide can be found here.

Tip If you are temporarily out of state when your driver’s license is lost, stolen, or damaged you can contact the DMV office at 800-642-9066 or email them at [email protected]

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Page 19: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

In order to qualify to reinstate your license, you will have to have completed all of the required time for your restraining order. The DMV department will only reinstate your driver’s license if you complete all of the necessary requirements to remove any restraining orders from your license.

There are many reasons you might have a suspended driver’s license which, therefore, means there are multiple ways to reinstate your driver’s license, it all depends on the situation.

ReinstatingYour License

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Page 20: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Your Original Suspension Notice

Your Driver’s license Number

Mail all transactions to the following address:

P.O. Box 17030 Charleston, WV 25317

When it is time to apply to reinstate your suspended license make sure to remember that you have to include:

The regional offices will not handle your reinstatement process. You can check online to see your license status or obtain your driving record at the DMV official site here. If you need any information or clarification regarding your suspended license or under what condition it falls under, please contact the DMV at 304-558-3900 or 800-642-9066 for more information.

Driving Under The Influence (DUI) Being convicted of a DUI is very serious in the state of West Virginia, which is why if you are 21 years or older with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or under 21 years with a BAC of .02%, you will be convicted of a DUI. An officer can still convict you of a DWI if you appear to be too impaired to drive even if you are below the BAC limit.

Typically, the amount of time you need to wait before being able to drive again is defined by the number of times you have been convicted of a DUI by a judge. In the case in which your BAC result is above .05% you may have your license revoked, while refusing a BAC test will result in an

OR

You can also pay your reinstatement fees online on the DMV site here.

immediate revocation. You can see all the criminal and administrative penalties you face when you are charged with a DUI in West Virginia here.

Tip If you need any information or clarification regarding your suspended license or under what condition it falls under, please contact the DMV at 304-558-3900 or 800-642-9066.

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Page 21: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

If you are not able to or not interested in obtaining a driver’s license, it is then important that you consider getting an ID card instead. An ID card is essential because it is the easiest manner in which someone else can identify you when necessary, whether it be an authority figure, such as the police, or if you simply need to provide one proof of your identity, such as at the DMV office.

In order to obtain, renew, or replace your West Virginia ID card you will have to take the following steps:

Getting an West Virginia ID Card

Visit the DMV office.

Fill out the Application for a Driver’s license or Photo ID Card Form (Form DMV-DS-23P).

Provide ONE proof of your identity:

• U.S. Birth Certificate

• Valid U.S. Passport

Between the Ages of 2 to 15 years old $5 per year

Age 16 $25

Age 17 $20

Age 18 $15

Age 19 $10

Age 20 $5

Provide ONE proof of your Social Security Number, along with your full legal name:

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Form

Provide ONE proof of any name changes, if necessary:

• Marriage Certificate

• Divorce Decree

• Court Order

Provide TWO proofs of your West Virginian residency:

• Utility Bills, within the last 60 days

Fees

Tip Children between the ages two to 14 years old will only be allowed to obtain an ID card if their parent signs their application. Also, be sure to confirm with the DMV office your expiration date if it is not completely clear.

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Page 22: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Before you get behind the wheel, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is safe and prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive. Be sure to regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly and your tires are inflated and not worn out. Have the steering and suspensions checked by a mechanic.

Emergency Kit One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, First Aid items, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, a shovel and extra gloves and socks..

Winter Driving One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area that is prone to ice and snowfall. Consider the tips below to drive safely during the winter.

Vehicle Safety Tips

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Page 23: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Don’t Rush!

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after snowfall. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for your appointment.

Don’t Panic If You Skid or Slip

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while you are driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Check Your Vehicle

Before you leave your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving. This prevents the snow from blocking your view while you drive or flying off and hitting someone while the vehicle is in motion.

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Page 24: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Things to AvoidDrinking and Driving

Every year, thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These unfortunate events can be prevented if drivers plan ahead of time and take certain steps.

Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, it is important that you take a taxi. Never allow someone drunk to drive. Instead, take away their keys and call for alternative transportation.

If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – call 9-1-1 and contact authorities immediately. Make sure to avoid them on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean you pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.

Using Your Phone

Driving while using your cell phone is one of the most dangerous actions you can perform. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Make sure to avoid texting, using the internet on your phone or receiving calls while you drive.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving and drivers should both be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as tailgating, verbally or physically harassing another driver or preventing another driver from merging or passing.

If you are an aggressive driver, you are putting others at risk every time you engage in any of the above behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe and continue moving.

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Page 25: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

Wasting Gas

If you drive often, you can start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the pump. Some of the ways that you can start saving gas are by turning off the air conditioning, not leaving your engine running and avoiding speeding. These things are preventable and not necessary for you to drive. Therefore, you can quickly reduce the amount of gas you waste.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated and your engine is properly tuned.

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Page 26: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

OfficialForms

Application for a Driver’s license or Photo ID Card Form (Form DMV-DS-23P)

50 Hour Certification Log for Driver’s license Application under Age 18 Form (Form DMV-10-GDL)

Vision Specialist’s Exam Results and Certification (DLAB-II Form)

Change of Address Form (DMV 98-TRB Form)

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Page 27: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages

DMV

Hours and Locations

The DMV has offices conveniently located across the state. Click here to learn more about DMV office locations, schedules, and waiting times.

Have you ever visited the DMV and realized that you forgot a document? Now you can avoid that and save the trip by using the online services. You will be able to:

Check Your License Status

Request Your Driving Record

Pay Your Reinstatement Fee

If you have any questions, you can call the DMV toll free at 1-800-642-9066 or the main office at 304-558-3900. Their offices hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for:

For general inquiries, you may contact customer service by email at: [email protected]

Kanawha City Regional Office

• 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Friday

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday

Martinsburg Regional Office

• 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday

• 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday

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Page 28: West Virginia Driver’s License Guide · to review all information regarding driver safety, traffic laws, and all West Virginia laws. The exam is available in multiple languages