Whether you are applying for a new job, renewing your auto insurance, or simply verifying your license status, obtaining your West Virginia driving record—officially known as a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)—is a straightforward process. The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides several channels to access this information, ranging from instant online portals to traditional mail-in requests. This guide outlines the specific steps, costs, and requirements for each method to help you secure your record efficiently.
Why You May Need Your West Virginia Driving Record
Your driving record is a comprehensive history of your behavior behind the wheel. It includes your license status, traffic violations, accidents, and accumulated points. Employers, particularly those in the transportation or delivery sectors, often require an MVR as part of a background check. Similarly, insurance companies use this data to determine your risk level and premium rates. Periodically checking your own record is also a proactive way to ensure no errors are affecting your driving privileges or financial standing.
Method 1: Get Your West Virginia Driving Record Online (Fastest Option)
The most convenient way to obtain your personal driving record is through the West Virginia DMV’s online self-service portal. This method provides immediate access and is ideal for individuals who need their information quickly for personal review or non-certified use.
1.Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the WV DMV Driving Record Service.
2.Provide Identification: You will need to enter your driver’s license number, last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
3.Pay the Fee: The standard online processing fee is $7.50.
4.Download and Print: Once the transaction is complete, you can view and print your record directly from your browser.
Note: The online service is strictly for individuals requesting their own records. You cannot purchase a driving record for another person through this portal.
Method 2: Request a West Virginia Driving Record by Mail or Email
If you prefer a physical copy or do not have access to the online system, you can submit a request via mail or email. This method is also necessary if you are a third party (such as an employer) requesting a record for someone else.
Required Documentation
To process a manual request, you must provide:
•Form DMV-101-PS1: A completed Driving Record Request form.
•Identification: A copy of your valid driver’s license or state-issued photo ID.
•Payment: A check or money order made payable to “WV DMV.”
Submission Details
| Method | Contact Information |
| WV DMV, Driving Records Section, PO Box 17020, Charleston, WV 25317 | |
| [email protected] | |
| Fax | (304) 957-7584 |
Method 3: Get a West Virginia Driving Record in Person
For those who need a record immediately but cannot use the online portal, visiting a DMV regional office is the best alternative. You can walk into any WV DMV branch office during business hours. You must bring your physical driver’s license and be prepared to pay the fee via cash, check, or credit card. In-person requests are typically processed while you wait, providing you with a hard copy on the spot.
West Virginia Driving Record Fees Explained
The cost of a West Virginia driving record depends on the information you provide. Providing your driver’s license number streamlines the search and reduces the administrative cost.
| Request Type | Processing Fee |
| Request with Driver’s License Number | $7.50 |
| Request without Driver’s License Number (Requires DOB/SSN) | $8.50 |
| Message Forwarding Service (DMV-102-DL) | $7.50 |
Third-Party and Employer Requests for WV Driving Records
Under the Uniform Motor Vehicles Records Disclosure Act, the DMV restricts who can access your driving history. If an employer or insurance agent needs your record, they must have your explicit written consent. This is handled by completing Form DMV-101-PS2 (Release Authorization) in addition to the standard request form. Employers often use specialized background check services that interface directly with the DMV to pull these records in bulk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Online and in-person requests are instantaneous. Mail and email requests typically take 5 to 10 business days to process, depending on the current volume of requests at the Charleston headquarters.
The record includes your full name, address, license class, expiration date, and status (e.g., Valid, Suspended, Revoked). It also lists all moving violations, accidents reported to the DMV, and any points currently on your license.
Yes. While the online version is an official document, some courts or out-of-state agencies require a “certified” copy with an official seal. These are best obtained in person or by specifically requesting certification on your mail-in form.
In West Virginia, if you accumulate 12 or more points, your driving privileges will be suspended. Monitoring your MVR allows you to see how close you are to this limit and whether you should attend a defensive driving course to reduce your point total.
Conclusion
Once you have your record, review it carefully for any inaccuracies. If you find a mistake, such as a violation that should have been removed or an incorrect accident report, contact the WV DMV Driving Records Section at (304) 926-3952 to initiate a correction. Keeping an accurate record is essential for maintaining low insurance rates and ensuring your eligibility for driving-related employment.
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