The Complete West Virginia DMV Document Checklist: What to Bring for Your Appointment

There's nothing more frustrating than waiting in line at the DMV, only to be told you're missing a crucial piece of paperwork. A simple mistake like a forgotten document can mean a wasted trip and having to start the process all over again. To ensure your visit to the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles is smooth and successful, it's essential to be thoroughly prepared with all the necessary documentation.

This comprehensive checklist will guide you through exactly what you need to bring to your DMV appointment, whether you're applying for your first learner's permit, transferring an out-of-state license, or getting a REAL ID-compliant card.

The "For Federal Identification" (REAL ID) Standard

West Virginia now issues REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and ID cards, which will be required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights. To obtain a REAL ID-compliant card for the first time, you must provide specific documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and residency.

Even if you are not getting a REAL ID, the document requirements for a standard license are very similar, especially for new applicants. It's always best to be over-prepared.

The Core Four: Essential Documents for All First-Time Applicants

If you are a new applicant, transferring a license from another state, or have a West Virginia license that has been expired for more than three years, you will need to provide the following:

1. One Proof of Identity

This document must show your full legal name and date of birth.

Acceptable Documents:

• Original or certified copy of a U.S.-issued birth certificate. (Hospital birth certificates are not acceptable).
• Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.
• Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship.
• Permanent Resident Card.
• For non-U.S. citizens: Valid, unexpired documents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), such as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or a foreign passport with a valid I-551 stamp.

2. One Proof of Social Security Number

You must provide a document that shows your full Social Security number.

Acceptable Documents:

• Social Security card.
• Original W-2 form (not more than 18 months old).
• 1099 form with your full name and SSN.
• Payroll stub with your employer's name and ID number, and your name and SSN.

3. Two Proofs of West Virginia Residency

You must provide two documents that show your current name and physical West Virginia address. P.O. boxes are not acceptable. Recurring bills, like utility bills, cannot be more than 60 days old. You cannot use two documents from the same company.

Acceptable Documents (List B - you can use two from this list):

• WV utility bills (e.g., water, electric, gas).
• Tax records with a WV street address.
• WV mortgage or lease agreement.
• WV W-2 form (not more than 18 months old).
• Valid WV vehicle registration card.
• WV voter's registration card.

Acceptable Documents (List C - you can use one from this list in combination with one from List B):

• Letter from a college or university showing you are an in-state resident.
• Paycheck stub from a WV employer.
• Proof of WV public assistance.
• Affidavit of West Virginia Residency: This form can be used in certain situations, such as if you are living with a relative and do not have bills in your name.

4. Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable)

If your current legal name is different from the name on your proof of identity document (e.g., your birth certificate), you must provide legal documents to show the name change.

Acceptable Documents:

• Certified marriage certificate.
• Court order for a name change.
• Divorce decree.

Additional Documents for Specific Situations

• Teen Applicants (Under 18):
  • Driver's Eligibility Certificate: You must get this from your county school board.
  • Parent or Guardian Consent: Your parent or legal guardian must be present to sign your application.
• New Residents with an Out-of-State License:
  • Your Out-of-State Driver's License: You will be required to surrender your license from your former state.
• License Renewal:
  • If you are renewing and have no changes to your information, you may only need your current license or the renewal application you received in the mail. However, if you are upgrading to a REAL ID for the first time, you will need to bring all the documents listed above.

Final Tips for a Successful DMV Visit

• Check the Official DMV Website: Before you go, always visit the official WV DMV website to get the most up-to-date information on required documents and fees.
• Bring Originals or Certified Copies: Photocopies are generally not accepted for proof of identity.
• Organize Your Documents: Have all your paperwork organized and ready to present to the DMV employee. This will make the process faster and more efficient.

By using this checklist and being prepared, you can ensure your trip to the West Virginia DMV is a productive one.