What Is a REAL ID in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, a REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that complies with federal standards for secure identification. It is issued by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and is marked with a gold star in the upper right corner. This indicates that the cardholder’s identity, legal presence, Social Security number, and residency have been verified through specific federal guidelines.
A REAL ID allows you to use your license for federal purposes such as boarding domestic flights, entering secure government buildings, and accessing military bases. It is an optional upgrade, but for many West Virginians, it provides added convenience and readiness for travel and official needs.
Why Consider Getting a REAL ID?
Although you are not required to get a REAL ID, many residents find it helpful. Without one, you must carry a passport or another federally accepted form of ID when accessing certain federal facilities or flying within the United States.
By upgrading to a REAL ID, you can use your West Virginia driver’s license or ID card as a single, secure, and recognized form of identification for both state and federal purposes. It’s particularly convenient if you prefer not to carry a passport unless absolutely necessary.
What You’ll Need to Apply
To apply for a REAL ID in West Virginia, you must visit a DMV office in person and bring original or certified documents. Photocopies and digital versions will not be accepted.
Here are the required categories of documentation:
Proof of Identity and Legal Presence
– Valid, unexpired U.S. passport, or
– Certified U.S. birth certificate, or
– Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card
Proof of Social Security Number
– Social Security card, or
– W-2 or 1099 form with your full SSN, or
– Recent pay stub showing full SSN
Two Proofs of West Virginia Residency
– Utility bills
– Lease or mortgage documents
– Bank statements
– Government-issued mail addressed to you
Proof of Name Change (if applicable)
– Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for name change
Make sure that all documents are consistent in name and spelling. If you’ve changed your name, you must show documentation that tracks the full change from your original identity to your current legal name.
Where to Apply for a REAL ID in West Virginia
REAL IDs are issued at full-service DMV regional offices throughout the state. Locations include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, Parkersburg, Beckley, Martinsburg, and more. Smaller towns also host DMV offices with REAL ID services.
You can find the closest DMV office and schedule an appointment by visiting the West Virginia DMV website. While many locations accept walk-ins, making an appointment is recommended to avoid long waits and ensure your application can be processed on the spot.
REAL ID Fees in West Virginia
There is no extra fee for getting a REAL ID if you apply during your regular license renewal period. You’ll just pay the standard license or ID fee:
Driver’s license (8 years): $40
Identification card (5 years): $25
Duplicate or mid-cycle REAL ID upgrade: $10–$15
If you're getting a REAL ID outside of your normal renewal period, expect to pay a small duplicate license fee.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth DMV Visit
To avoid frustration or multiple visits, gather all required documents ahead of time and double-check them. Use the West Virginia DMV's online checklist tool to confirm you’ve got what you need.
Bring extra documents if you're unsure about residency proofs or if your name has changed multiple times. It's better to over-prepare than be turned away at the counter. Also, arrive early or at your scheduled appointment time and be patient—verifying documents is thorough but typically doesn’t take long if you’re well prepared.
What If You Don’t Get a REAL ID?
If you choose not to get a REAL ID, you’ll receive a standard West Virginia license marked “Not for Federal Identification.” This card is still valid for driving, banking, and local identification, but it cannot be used to fly domestically or access certain federal facilities on its own.
You would need to carry a passport or another acceptable form of federal ID in those cases. That’s why many residents opt for the REAL ID—so they can carry just one card for all purposes.
Conclusion
Getting a REAL ID in West Virginia is a practical, one-time process that can make your life easier and more flexible in the long run. With just one trip to the DMV and the right paperwork, you can upgrade your license or ID to meet federal standards and ensure it works wherever you go—whether that’s an airport, military base, or federal building.
For residents who want peace of mind and simplicity, the REAL ID is a secure step toward full preparedness.