Renew your West Virginia driver's license in person at the DMV or by mail if you meet certain conditions
West Virginia allows you to renew your driver's license through the mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions or violations on your record. If your license is already expired, you have medical conditions listed on it, or you want to change information, you must renew in person at a DMV office. The in-person process takes about 30 minutes; mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your materials.
You will need your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and a completed process form. If you are renewing by mail, you will also need to include a check or money order — West Virginia does not accept credit cards by mail. The renewal fee is $21.50 for a four-year license or $43 for an eight-year license.
Key Takeaways
- Mail renewal is only available if your license is current, you have no medical restrictions, and your record shows no violations or suspensions.
- In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license has expired, includes medical conditions, or if you need to update your name, address, or other information.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and a completed process form for either method.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks; in-person renewal is usually completed the same day you visit the office.
- The renewal fee is $21.50 for four years or $43 for eight years, paid by check or money order if renewing by mail.
Renewing by mail: what you need and where to send it
To renew by mail, read or request the process for Operator's License or Instruction Permit (Form DMV-14) from the West Virginia DMV website. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any changes to your name or other information. Sign and date the form — an unsigned process will be returned to you.
Include your current driver's license, a copy of your proof of residency, and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Do not send cash. Mail the packet to the address listed on the DMV website for your county or region. The DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. If you are moving, update your address on the process so your new license arrives at the correct location.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your materials. If you need your license sooner, you must renew in person instead.
Renewing in person at a DMV office
Visit any West Virginia DMV office with your current driver's license, proof of residency, and a completed process for Operator's License or Instruction Permit (Form DMV-14). You can read the form before you go or fill it out at the office. Bring your check or money order for the renewal fee, or bring a debit or credit card — the DMV accepts cards in person but not by mail.
Arrive during regular business hours. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some locations may ask you to schedule one, especially during peak times. Check the DMV website for your local office's hours and whether appointments are needed. The process usually takes 30 minutes or less. You will receive your new license the same day if everything is in order.
If you need to change your address, name, or other information on your license, tell the DMV staff when you arrive. You may need to bring additional documents to support a name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
When you must renew in person instead of by mail
You cannot use mail renewal if your current license has expired. Once your license is no longer valid, West Virginia requires you to renew in person at a DMV office. You also cannot renew by mail if your license includes medical restrictions or conditions — for example, if you wear corrective lenses or have a condition that requires periodic review. The DMV must verify these restrictions in person.
If your record shows any suspensions, revocations, or violations, you must renew in person. The same applies if you want to change your name, address, or other information on your license. In-person renewal allows the DMV to update your record and verify the changes before issuing your new license.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than a few months ago, you will need to renew in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test. West Virginia's rules on expired licenses vary depending on how long ago the license expired and whether you have held a valid license before. Contact your local DMV office or check the website to find out what tests you will need to take.
Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee. The DMV staff will tell you what additional steps are required when you arrive.
Finding your local DMV office and checking hours
The West Virginia DMV website lists all regional offices with their addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Search for the office closest to you or the one most convenient for your schedule. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you plan your visit.
If you cannot visit an office in person and your license is not yet expired, mail renewal is your best option. If your license has expired and you cannot visit an office, contact the DMV directly to ask about your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my West Virginia license online?
No, West Virginia does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is current and has no medical restrictions, or you can renew in person at any DMV office. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks; in-person renewal is usually completed the same day.
What if I moved to a different state?
You cannot renew a West Virginia license if you no longer live in the state. You will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state instead. Contact your new state's DMV for information about how to transfer your license or obtain a new one.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Most West Virginia DMV offices do not require appointments, but some locations may ask you to schedule one during busy times. Check the website for your local office or call ahead to confirm whether an appointment is needed.
What if I lost my current license?
If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person and report the loss. The DMV will issue a replacement license, which counts as your renewal.
Can I renew my license if I have a suspension or violation on my record?
No, you must renew in person if your record shows any suspensions, revocations, or violations. The DMV will review your record and may require you to take additional tests or complete other steps before issuing your new license.