"For Federal Identification" (REAL ID) Card Requirements

Renewal Applications for a REAL ID / For-Federal Identification driver's license or ID card with no changes are required to provide their current license or ID card OR the renewal application. Any changes in address since the last card will require two proof of WV residency documents with name and physical address. Any change of legal name requires proof of legal name change document(s) and one proof of Social Security number document.

Duplicate Applicants choosing a "For Federal Use" driver's license or ID card are required to provide one proof of identity document, one proof of Social Security number document, two proofs of WV residency documents with name and physical address, and proof of legal name change document(s) if their name has ever changed or is different than the provided proof of identity document.

New Applicants, Transfers, and Expired License Applicants are required to provide one proof of identity, one proof of Social Security number, two proofs of WV residency with name and physical address, and proof of legal name change document(s) if your name has ever changed.

• Applicants who have never held a driver's license or ID card, who are transferring a license from out-of-state, or who have a West Virginia license that has been expired for more than three (3) years are considered first-time applicants.
• Applicants who are applying for a West Virginia driver's license and are transferring a license from another state must also submit their current license from the previous state or present a current certified driving record from their previous state, dated 30 days or less from the date of the application. New residents who want to drive in WV must apply for a WV driver's license within 30 days.

This card is sent to the applicant's address via USPS in 10–15 business days. A temporary license is issued at the time the application is accepted at DMV for use during the production and shipping of this card.

*New –REAL-ID Headstart PreEnrollment Service is now available to West Virginians. The new service from the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles is the easiest and fastest way to upgrade a current "Not for Federal Identification" type WV Driver's License or State ID to a REAL ID. Enter your information, upload your documents, then book your appointment (once approved) — it's that easy! Spend up to 50% less time at the DMV during your in-person appointment!