West Virginia permit test
Test requirements, handbook sources, and practice for West Virginia.
Test and permit facts
Read the scope and exceptions alongside each fact. Requirements still awaiting review are omitted; their absence does not mean the agency has no rule.
| Fact | West Virginia | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Agency | West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles | Official source · PDF page 65 |
| Test name | knowledge examination | Official source · PDF page 34 |
| Test format details | The handbook says the examination has at least 25 questions, then requires 19 correct out of 25. It describes a time limit without specifying minutes; unanswered questions count as incorrect. | Official source · PDF page 34 |
| Test options and applicant conditions | Automated testing at all locations. An audio version is available for applicants with reading impairments, using headphones and the same content and rules as the printed exam. DMV staff cannot read or reword questions or add explanations; limited headsets can mean a wait. | Official source · PDF page 34 |
| Correct answers to pass | 19 | Official source · PDF page 34 |
| Online testing | The agency offers online written testing through its linked partner. A passing certificate must be taken to DMV for processing and does not authorize driving. | |
| Minimum permit age | 15 | |
| Permit fee | $7.50 for each Level 1 knowledge-test attempt. | |
| Permit validity | The Level 1 permit expires on the 18th birthday with a 30-day grace period; it cannot be renewed. | |
| Retest rules | After a knowledge or road-skills test failure, at least one week must separate test attempts. | Official source · PDF page 36 |
| Handbook | Driver's Licensing Handbook | |
| Handbook edition | Revised 07/2026 | Official source · PDF page 1 |
| Requirements for applicants under 18 | For a Level 1 instruction permit, be age 15 through 17 and take the knowledge test. A parent, custodial single parent, or legal guardian must sign before testing. A married minor may instead present a certified marriage certificate. Once issued, a licensed adult age 21 or older must sit in front; driving is limited to 5 a.m.–10 p.m., all occupants use belts, no alcohol or phone use, and no more than two additional nonfamily passengers besides the supervising adult. | |
| Documents to bring | Bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of physical residence. If ineligible for a Social Security number, supply the SSA denial letter. Use the agency’s acceptable-document lists; provide documents linking legal name changes when applicable. | |
| Agency offices and appointments | Apply for an instruction permit at a DMV regional office. Check the agency website or call 1-800-642-9066 for testing times before visiting; online test completion still requires DMV processing. | Official source 1 · PDF page 3 |
Start with the handbook
Study the federal road-sign catalog.
Free permit practice
Try 20 independently checked questions with explanations and handbook citations. This practice set does not reproduce the official exam format.
Start 20-question practiceState topics and browser tools
- West Virginia permit fees and documents
- West Virginia teen permit rules
- West Virginia permit test retesting
- West Virginia permit offices and appointments
Check exam simulator availability by state or check reviewed practice mistake limits.