Getting a state ID in West Virginia is similar to getting a drivers license in the state. Carrying a DMV ID card allows you to enter premises you cannot get into without identification, verify your identity whenever necessary and access age-restricted events and services.

For many people, getting a driver’s license fills this need, but you do not necessarily need to be able to drive to carry identification. If you are under your state’s driving age or simply do not wish to drive, you can apply to get a state identification card, also known as a non-driver license ID. This document carries important information you would normally find on a driver’s license and gets issued by your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV). Read on to learn what you need to apply for this credential.

West Virginia DMV ID Requirements

West Virginia’s DMV state ID requirements are similar to the requirements that other states use. You can get two kinds of ID cards: the “Not for Federal Use” Card or the “For Federal Use” Card (also known as the REAL ID). Fortunately, West Virginia has similar requirements to get either kind of ID card. The ID card requirements for a “Not for Federal Use” Card or a REAL card are as follows:

  • Be 15 years of age or older.
  • Be a resident of West Virginia.
  • Have a Social Security card.
  • Present other documents that prove your identity.

If you are younger than 15 years of age, you will need to get a different kind of ID card known as a Youth Identification card.

What do you need to get an ID in West Virginia?

There are several documents required for a state ID, regardless of which kind of card you get. In many cases, you can even submit one of several different documents to satisfy the DMV’s requirements.

When you apply for a state ID Card, you must bring:

  • One document proving your identity.
  • One document proving your social Security Number (SSN).
  • Two documents proving your resident in West Virginia.

The document proving your identity can be any one of the following:

  • A birth certificate or current U.S. passport.
  • A current foreign passport with current visa
  • A Certificate of Naturalization or of citizenship
  • A Consular Report of Birth Abroad

The document proving your Social Security Number can any one of the following:

  • A Social Security card
  • A W-2 form
  • A 1099 form
  • A pay stub with your name and SSN on it

The two documents proving your residency can be any combination of two documents issued within the last 60 days. They must display your name and residential address. This includes:

  • Utility bills.
  • Mortgage statements.
  • Insurance documents.
  • Hunting licenses.

You can visit West Virginia’s DMV website to find out more about other proof of residency documents needed for state ID cards.

How to Get an ID in West Virginia

You cannot get an ID online in West Virginia. Instead, you must take submit your application and other documents in person.

To find out where to get your state ID, simply look up the nearest DMV office location. Set up an appointment by phone to apply for an ID and remember to show up slightly early in case of difficulties. Submit your documents and pay your application fee. If you are getting a REAL ID, you should receive a temporary ID card before leaving the DMV offices. The DMV will mail you the finished ID card 10 to 15 business days after you apply for it.

REAL ID Cards in West Virginia

West Virginia issues “Not for Federal Use” card and a “For Federal Use” card, also known as a REAL ID card. The “Not for Federal Use” card gives you many of the same benefits you might get with a driver’s license. However, just like with a regular driver’s license, this ID card is not federally recognized, so you will not be able to enter certain areas or get certain services with it. All state governments are currently implementing plans to change airport ID card requirements by 2020, requiring all air travelers to apply for a REAL ID.

You need the same documents to apply for both kinds of ID cards, so the process of getting a REAL ID card is not more complicated. The only differences are the application cost (you will need to pay an extra $10) and that when you finish applying for a REAL ID Card you will receive a temporary card to use until the finished ID arrives at your address.

How to Renew or Replace a State ID in West Virginia

You will need to get a replacement ID card if yours is lost, stolen or damaged. You will also have to replace it before the expiration date printed on the credential.

You will follow the same process to renew or replace an ID card in West Virginia. If your card is not a REAL ID, simply bring your current card, your renewal notice and one proof of residency.

However, to renew a REAL ID, bring the following:

  • One document proving your identity.
  • One document showing your Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Two documents proving you have a residency in West Virginia.

If you have changed your name since getting your original ID card, you must bring one document proving your name change. You will pay $7.50 to replace your card, but your ID renewal fee will vary depending on your age.

DMV ID Costs in West Virginia

How much does an ID cost? The answer varies on what age you apply for it. If you apply when you are fifteen years of age, you will pay $5 per year that you have the card until you renew it. After age 15, you will pay a one-time fee when you apply for the card:

  • $25 if applying at age 16
  • $20 if applying at age 17
  • $15 if applying at age 18
  • $10 if applying at age 19
  • $5 if applying at age 20

After you reach 21 years of age, you will pay a renewal fee every time your card expires, which follows the same system as when driver’s licenses expire. The renewal fee will total $5 for each year that you had the previous card. You must pay an extra $10 on top of these fees to get a REAL ID card.

The DMV ID price for replacing your ID card is $7.50 regardless of your age.

Last updated on Wednesday, March 4 2020.