Learner’s Permit Restrictions and Regulations in West Virginia

1. What is the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


The minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit in West Virginia is 15 and 6 months.

2. How many hours of supervised driving must be completed before applying for a driver’s license in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, applicants must complete at least 45 hours of supervised driving before applying for a driver’s license. Of those 45 hours, 15 must be completed at night.

3. Does West Virginia require a vision test for a learner’s permit?


Yes, West Virginia requires a vision test for a learner’s permit.

4. How long is a learner’s permit valid for in West Virginia?


A learner’s permit in West Virginia is valid for 12 months.

5. Are there any restrictions on nighttime driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes. A person with a learner’s permit in West Virginia is not allowed to drive between the hours of midnight and 6:00 a.m.

6. Are there any limitations on passengers when driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes, when driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia, you are limited to carrying only one passenger who is over the age of 21 and who holds a valid driver’s license. Additionally, you may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. or on any interstate highway without an accompanying licensed driver over the age of 21.

7. What documents must be presented to apply for a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


To apply for a learner’s permit in West Virginia, an applicant must present a valid form of identification, such as a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card; proof of West Virginia residency; a completed driver’s license application form; and evidence of completion of the state’s driver education requirements. Additionally, applicants must be at least 15 ½ years old and have a parent or legal guardian present with them at the time of application.

8. Is there an additional fee for a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes. In West Virginia, applicants for a learner’s permit must pay a $5 fee.

9. What is the process to renew a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


To renew a learner’s permit in West Virginia, the applicant must be at least 16 years of age, have held the learner’s permit for at least 6 months, and have completed 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night). The applicant must then pass the knowledge test and obtain a vision test clearance from an authorized vision tester. The applicant must then present the required documents and fees to their local West Virginia DMV office.

10. What are the requirements for taking the written exam when applying for a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, applicants must be at least 15 ½ to apply for a learner’s permit. The applicant must provide proof of their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, West Virginia residence address, and proof of school attendance or graduation. The applicant must pass a vision test and a written exam which covers West Virginia’s traffic laws and safe driving practices.

11. Are there any restrictions on cell phone use while driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes. All drivers under the age of 18 in West Virginia are prohibited from using cell phones while driving, even if they are in possession of a learner’s permit.

12. Are there any restrictions on seatbelt usage while driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes, in West Virginia, all vehicle occupants, regardless of age, must wear a seatbelt while the vehicle is in motion. This applies to all drivers and passengers, including those with a learner’s permit.

13. How long is an applicant required to hold a learner’s permit before applying for a driver’s license in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, an applicant is required to hold a learner’s permit for at least sixty days before applying for a driver’s license.

14. Does West Virginia offer any type of driver education courses to help applicants prepare for a learner’s permit exam?


Yes, West Virginia offers a driver education course to help applicants prepare for the learner’s permit exam. The course is available online or in-person through a licensed Driver Education School.

15. What are the rules regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs while driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, it is illegal for any person, regardless of age, to possess or consume any alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, or prescription medications while operating a motor vehicle. This includes if a person has a learner’s permit. Additionally, a person driving with a learner’s permit must also be accompanied by a qualified adult aged 21 or older. If caught driving under the influence, a person with a learner’s permit may face suspension of their license and other penalties.

16. Does West Virginia require applicants to take an actual driving test before being issued a driver’s license?


Yes, West Virginia requires applicants to take an actual driving test before being issued a driver’s license.

17. Is insurance required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


No, insurance is not required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in West Virginia.

18. Are there any special requirements when applying for a learner’s permit if the applicant is under 18 years old in West Virginia?


Yes. In West Virginia, applicants who are under 18 years old must provide proof of enrollment in a driver education program and have a parent or legal guardian sign the application as consent. Applicants must also pass a vision screening and knowledge test to receive a learner’s permit.

19. Is formal driver training required before applying for a driver’s license in West Virginia?


Yes, formal driver training is required in West Virginia before applying for a driver’s license. All applicants must complete a Driver Education Program or attend a driver safety class approved by the West Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

20. Is there an age restriction on digital device use while driving with a learner’s permit in West Virginia?


Yes, drivers with a learner’s permit in West Virginia are not allowed to use any type of digital device, including cell phones and tablets, while operating a motor vehicle.