West Virginia Drivers Education

West Virginia has a three level Graduated Drivers Licensing Program which you can begin at age 15 and must begin before you are 18. The first level, Instruction Permit Level requires that you pass a written test before obtaining your permit and have your parent or legal guardian sign your application. Your Instruction Permit is valid for 14 months or your 18th birthday (whichever occurs first) and is not renewable. While you hold your permit, you must have a licensed driver 21 years or older in the front seat and you may only drive between 5am and 11pm. You must also be enrolled in school during the time you hold your permit. A valid school enrolment form is required to perform any driver’s license transaction for any person under the age of 18.

 

Level 2 is an Intermediate Driver’s License that you may apply for after you have held your permit for 6 months and you are at least 16 years old. You must not have incurred any driving infractions while you held your permit and you must prove that you have completed 30 hours of driving instruction by your parent, legal guardian or a Driver Education Course. Your level 2 license will expire on your 18th birthday and requires the following:

 

  • May drive without supervising adult between 5:00 am and 11:00 pm.

  • Must have licensed driver 21 or over in front seat between 11:00 pm and 5:00 am

  • All occupants must use safety belts in accord with state law

  • Maximum of 3 passengers under 19 (family members exempt)

  • Zero alcohol tolerance

 

You will be eligible at age 17 to obtain a Class E Full Drivers License provided:

 

Requirements:

  • Must have at least 1 year with Level II

  • Must be infraction free for 1 year (excludes headlamp violation and improper backing violation)
    Expiration date: 21st birthday


 

Restrictions for Level III

  • Zero alcohol tolerance

  • All occupants must use safety belts in accordance with state law

 

Helpful Documents:

Documents for Issuance of a Permit/GDL/ License/ Identification Card

Residency Requirements

School Enrollment Form

Social Security/ Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

First Time Applicants

Driver's Handbook