West Virginia Department of Transportation
(304) 558-3900
Kanawha City Regional Office
140 Kanawha Mall
Charleston, WV 25387
(800) 642-9066
www.wvdot.com

Driver’s License
After establishing residency, new residents who want to drive in WV must apply for a WV driver’s license within 30 days. If you have a valid non-expired out-of -state license, you are eligible to transfer the license. You are required to pass a vision test, complete a brief alcohol awareness course and surrender your out-of state license before a WV license will be issued. A transfer applicant must present all acceptable documents that are required for a first-time applicant.

Vehicle Registration
When a vehicle is registered in West Virginia, the registrant will receive a license plate and registration card, which should be kept in the vehicle with the current insurance certificate at all times. The registration fee for passenger vehicles and pickup trucks weighing 8,000 pounds or less is $30.

Mandatory Insurance
West Virginia law requires all registered vehicles to be insured. The minimum amount of coverage required is $20,000 for one accident, one injury, $40,000 for one accident, two or more injuries, $10,000 for property damage. All vehicle insurance policies must be issued by a company licensed to sell insurance in West Virginia. The Compulsory Insurance Law is designed to protect you and all motorists who operate a vehicle in the state of West Virginia. Motorists are required to carry proof of insurance in the form of a (WV-1) Certificate of Insurance in their vehicle at all times. Law enforcement officers will request this information during any traffic stop or accident.