How to Get a West Virginia DMV Appointment

Welcome to the West Virginia DMV guide. The most important rule in West Virginia is that appointments are mandatory for almost all in-person services. The old system of walking in and waiting in line is no longer an option at any of the 25 regional offices.

The good news is that the WV DMV has two excellent online systems that can save you a trip:

1. The “Self-Service Portal” for tasks you can do 100% online (like renewing your license).
2. The “Appointment Wizard” for tasks that must be done in person (like getting your first permit).

This guide will show you how to “skip the trip” with online services, and how to correctly book your in-person appointment for everything else.

Can You “Skip the Trip”? (Check Online Services First)

The best appointment is no appointment. Before you book, check if you can do your task on the DMV Self-Service Portal.

Go to: https://apps.wv.gov/DMV/selfservice

You can use this portal to:

• Renew Your Driver’s License or ID Card
• Change Your Address
• Renew Your Vehicle Registration
• Check Your License Status
• Take the Online Knowledge (Permit) Test (for eligible drivers)

If your task is on this list, you can likely complete it from home.

How to Schedule Your In-Person WV DMV Appointment

If you must visit an office (e.g., for a new license, road test, or REAL ID), you must have an appointment.

1. Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the WV DMV Appointment Wizard:[https://apps.wv.gov/Appt/DMV/AppointmentWizard]
2. Select Your Service Category: This is the most important step. Choose the exact category you need.
   • For a Permit/Written Test: Select “Knowledge Testing.”
   • For a Driving Test: Select “Driver’s Skill Test” or “Motorcycle Skill Test.”
   • For a New License, Renewal, or REAL ID: Select “DL or ID Transactions.”
   • For Vehicle Registration/Titles: Select “Vehicle Services (Title, Registration, etc.).”
3. Select Your Location: Choose your preferred DMV Regional Office from the list.
4. Pick a Date and Time: A calendar will show you all available slots. (Note: These often fill up weeks in advance).
5. Enter Your Details: Fill in your name, email, and phone number.
6. Confirm & Save: You will receive a confirmation email. You must save this email, as it contains the link to cancel or reschedule.

The Learner’s Permit & Written Test: What You MUST Know

This is the first step for all new drivers. You must be at least 15 years old.

(This section uses the helpful, correct details from your original article)

• The Test: The written knowledge test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. You must get at least 19 questions correct (76%) to pass. All questions come from the WV Driver’s Licensing Handbook.
• The Fees: You will pay a $5.00 fee for the knowledge test and $7.50 for the learner’s permit card.

You have two ways to take the written test:

1. Online at Home (Recommended): You can use the Self-Service Portal to register and take your test online. This is the fastest way.
2. In-Person (By Appointment): If you prefer to take the test at an office, follow the guide in Section 2 and book an appointment for “Knowledge Testing.”

Required Documents for Your Visit (REAL ID)

When you visit the DMV Office for any new permit, license, or REAL ID, you must bring the following original documents.

• 1. Proof of Identity & Legal Status (One required):
  • U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
• 2. Proof of Social Security Number (One required):
  • Social Security Card
  • W-2 or 1099 form (must show full SSN)
• 3. Proofs of West Virginia Residency (TWO required):
  • You must bring TWO recent (within 60 days) documents from different sources with your name and WV address.
  • Examples: Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or paystub.
• 4. Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
  • Certified Marriage Certificate or court order.

FAQs