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Getting a REAL ID in West Virginia

The steps in plain English. Each one links to the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.

  1. Know that a 'Not for Federal Identification' card no longer works for air travel.

    Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. Gather one proof of identity, one of Social Security number, two of WV residency and any name-change papers.

    Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. Optionally pre-enroll with REAL ID Headstart to upload documents and get an appointment.

    Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. Visit a regional office; upgrades to REAL ID cannot be done online.

    Source: apps.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Pay the extra $10 fee and use your temporary license until the card arrives in 30–45 days.

    Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.

Related facts

For Federal Identification (REAL ID) vs Not for Federal Identification
WV issues both. Since May 7, 2025, a 'Not for Federal Identification' card is not accepted for air travel or some federal buildings.Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
REAL ID extra fee
$10.00 on top of the license fee.Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
REAL ID Headstart
Online pre-enrollment lets you upload documents before booking your office appointment to upgrade.Source: dmv.wv.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the West Virginia guide

Instruction permitSteps and official links →First licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →Moving to West VirginiaSteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official West Virginia links

Agency home pagedmv.wv.gov ↗Driver handbookdmv.wv.gov ↗Driver handbook (PDF)webapps.transportation.wv.gov ↗Online renewalapps.wv.gov ↗REAL IDdmv.wv.gov ↗Permit and first licensedmv.wv.gov ↗New residentsdmv.wv.gov ↗Feesdmv.wv.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.