Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia

1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in West Virginia?


The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) currently offers both Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs). As of January 2021, West Virginia has fully implemented Real ID requirements and is authorized to issue EDLs. To obtain a Real ID or EDL, applicants must present required documentation at a West Virginia DMV office, including proof of identity and proof of West Virginia residency.

2. Is West Virginia compliant with the Real ID Act?


Yes, West Virginia is compliant with the Real ID Act.

3. Does West Virginia offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?


Yes, West Virginia does offer both Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License programs.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in West Virginia?


No, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is not required to obtain a driver’s license in West Virginia.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


The documentation required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia includes: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two documents proving West Virginia residency.

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


The cost of a West Virginia REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is currently the same as a standard driver’s license: $5 plus $2.50 for the issuance fee.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is valid for 8 years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


Yes. In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia, applicants must provide proof of identity, West Virginia residency, Social Security number, and proof of lawful U.S. presence. Acceptable documents may include a passport, birth certificate, valid visa, Permanent Resident Card, or a Military ID.

9. Does West Virginia accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?


Yes. West Virginia accepts both Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


No, only individuals with permanent resident status in West Virginia can obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in West Virginia?


Yes, a person can use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in West Virginia.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


Yes. To renew a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia, you must visit your local West Virginia DMV office and bring:

1. Your current license or ID
2. Proof of identity (e.g. birth certificate, passport, etc.)
3. Proof of Social Security Number (e.g. Social Security card)
4. Proof of West Virginia residency (e.g. utility bill, lease agreement, etc.)
5. Payment for renewal fees (cash, check, or credit card)

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


You can apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia by visiting your local West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles office. You will need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and West Virginia residency. A list of required documents can be found on the WV DMV website: https://transportation.wv.gov/DMV/Documents/Real-ID%20Required%20Documentation.pdf

14. Does West Virginia have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?


Yes. In addition to the standard requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License, West Virginia requires applicants to present a completed form DMV-DS-233P (U.S. Citizenship/Identity Verification for Enhanced Driver License/Identification Card) to prove their legal identity and US citizenship. Additionally, West Virginia requires applicants to present proof of West Virginia residency, such as two documents showing their current West Virginia address.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from West Virginia?


No, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License cannot be used for international travel from West Virginia. You must have a valid U.S. passport to travel internationally.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


Yes. Applicants must be at least 15 years of age at the time of application for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


No, a vision test is not required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


Yes, there is a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia. The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles requires applicants to wait at least 30 days after receiving a driver’s license or ID card before applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia?


In West Virginia, you can pay for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License with cash, check, or credit/debit card.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in West Virginia for military personnel and veterans?


Yes. Military personnel and veterans may be exempt from having to present documents proving their date of birth, name, Social Security number and proof of West Virginia residency. They must present two documents that prove their Social Security number, which can include their U.S. Military ID card. They must also provide two documents to prove West Virginia residency, such as military orders or a lease agreement.