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How to Get Your West Virginia Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with WV DMV directly.

Under 18 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Apply for a Level 1 instruction permit at 15

    Apply at a DMV office with parent or guardian consent. Pass the 25-question knowledge test (76%, 19 correct) and a vision test. An applicant under 17 must also show school enrollment with satisfactory progress, or compliance with compulsory attendance law.

    • Birth certificate or equivalent
    • Proof of Social Security number and residency
    • Parent or guardian signature
    • Proof of school enrollment (if under 17)

  2. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    A licensed adult must be in the vehicle at all times while operating on a Level 1 permit.

  3. Follow Level 1 restrictions

    Drive only between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. Carry no more than two passengers beyond the supervising adult, unless those passengers are family. No cell phone use except to dial 911.

  4. Hold the permit 6 clean months and log 50 supervised hours

    Hold the Level 1 permit for at least 6 months with a clean driving record, and log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night, before the road test.

  5. Pass the road test and move to Level 2 at 16

    Once eligible, pass the road test to receive a Level 2 intermediate license.

  6. Follow Level 2 restrictions

    No driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. For the first 6 months, no non-family passengers under 20. For the second 6 months, no more than one non-family passenger under 20.

  7. Move to Level 3 at 17

    A Level 3 license removes all hour and passenger restrictions entirely.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for an instruction permit

    Apply at a DMV office; the graduated levels and their restrictions apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 18.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 25-question knowledge test (76%, 19 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your instruction permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • West Virginia's licensing agency is the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), part of the Department of Transportation — a genuine "DMV."
  • West Virginia's 76% permit-test passing score is an unusually specific number compared to the round 80% most states use.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official West Virginia DMV website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-24