West Virginia Learner's Permit Test

Getting a West Virginia Learners Permit

Who needs a learners permit?

All new drivers between the ages of 15 and 17 years old will need to begin the graduated licensing program with a level 1 learner’s permit . New drivers over the age of 18 must obtain a regular Class E learners permit for practice before a license will be issued.

Requirements for getting a learners permit

All teen drivers wishing to obtain a level 1 permit must have a Drivers eligibility Certificate issued by your current school in order to apply. If you have already graduated or received an alternative such as a GED, you must bring documentation proving successful completion. In addition, each new driver applying for a learners permit must pass a vision screening and written knowledge test in order to qualify. Addition documentations required for all new permit applicants include:

• Written consent form signed by a parent or guardian if under 18.
• Proper documents for proof of identity- these must include your full legal name and date of birth.
• A social security card or approved equivalent. If you do not yet have a social security number you must bring proof of legal presence in the US.
• Proof of name change if applicable.
• Two proofs of residency in the state. Minors may use their school driver’s eligibility certificate as one proof.

All minor drivers using a level 1 permit or graduated license that have not graduated from school must continue schooling. If the minor does not continue to attend without receiving an alternative such as a GED, the permit or license will be revoked.

Driving with a WV learners permit

New permit drivers are permitted to drive between the hours of 5am and 10pm with a licensed driver over the age of 21 in the front seat at all times during practice. You will be required to fulfill the minimum of 50 hours practice time while driving, 10 of which must be at night. These hours must be recorded in a drivers log and signed by a parent or guardian and can be completed in manner during the 6 months the new driver holds a learners permit.

Drivers with a level 1 learner’s permit that successfully complete an approved drivers education course do not have to meet the 50 hours requirement. However, practicing as must as possible will assure a passing grade on the road skills test.

New adult drivers over the age of 18 are not required to fulfill the 50 hours of driving practice; however it is recommended that you practice as must as possible. The permit must be held for at least 30 days before you are eligible for license testing. In addition adult drivers must also have a licensed supervisor over the age of 21 with them at all times. Practicing often will help you to pass the road skills test required for a driver’s license.

During practice times new drivers must not receive any moving violations or be the cause of an accident. In addition it is against the law to operate any form of electronic device such as a cell phone while driving. The state has a zero tolerance policy for use of electronic devices and drinking and driving. Any violation of these may result in serious consequences.

Cost of a learners permit

New drivers must pay the $5 written testing fee allowing them two attempts and a $5 permit fee.

Steps to getting a West Virginia learners permit

To receive a driver’s permit you must visit your DMV branch office and submit an application. You will follow these steps in the process:

• Submit your application and proofs of residency, identity and social security number or legal presence to the clerk for approval.
• Once documents and have been approved and entered for verification, you will take a vision screening and a photograph.
• The written test will be administered and you must pass with 19 out of 25 questions answered correctly.
• Pay your $5 permit fee and $5 testing fees with a check, cash or money order to complete the process and receive your permit.