(WEST VIRGINIA) Immigrants in West Virginia can get a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card by visiting a regional DMV office in person with documents that prove identity, lawful status, Social Security number (or ineligibility), and two West Virginia residency proofs. REAL ID has been enforced for federal purposes since May 7, 2025, and travelers who show non‑compliant ID face a $45 TSA fee and extra checks starting February 1, 2026.
Asylum seekers with a valid work permit, permanent residents, and other eligible non‑citizens often use a REAL ID to board domestic flights and enter some federal facilities. Undocumented people cannot get any West Virginia driver’s license. Over 63% of West Virginians already hold a REAL ID as of December 15, 2025, so many employers and landlords now expect that gold star card.
Important enforcement note
REAL ID enforced for federal purposes since May 7, 2025.
Travelers showing non‑compliant ID will face a $45 TSA fee and extra checks starting February 1, 2026.
If SSA records don’t match your provided number, the REAL ID check will fail. Fix any SSA mismatch before returning, or the DMV may deny the application and you’ll need a new appointment.
Why the REAL ID process is different for non‑citizens
A standard license and a REAL ID look similar, but the DMV must collect and verify additional documents for a REAL ID.
- For immigrants, this usually means showing a DHS‑issued status document or a passport with a valid U.S. visa and entry record.
- The DMV runs an electronic check on your Social Security number with the Social Security Administration.
The most common reason people get turned away is simple: the paper they brought does not fit the category the DMV requires. Bringing originals matters. DMV staff scan your documents and return them.
Eligibility basics the DMV applies at the counter
West Virginia issues REAL ID cards only to people who can show lawful status under federal rules. That includes many non‑citizens with current permission to be in the United States 🇺🇸 and a status document that has not expired.
- Asylum seekers generally qualify only when they have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD or work permit).
- Appointments are the smoothest path, but the DMV accepts walk‑ins.
You can schedule online at dmv.wv.gov or by calling 304-558-3938. For document questions, the DMV lists (304) 558-3900 as a contact line.
Document checklist that meets REAL ID rules
Plan on four categories. Put the papers in a folder, and bring a few extra residency proofs if you have them.
Use Real ID HeadStart to scan and upload documents before your visit. Bring originals to the DMV, ensure your name matches all papers, and carry two WV residency proofs to avoid delays.
- Proof of identity and lawful status (1 document). Common options include:
- Permanent Resident Card (Form I‑551)
- Employment Authorization Document (Form I‑766)
- Official guidance: Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card and Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document.
- Passport option. A foreign passport works if you also bring:
- a valid U.S. visa, and
- your most recent arrival record (Form I‑94).
Pull I‑94 records at Get Most Recent I-94.
- Social Security number proof (1 document, if eligible).
- Acceptable items: Social Security card, or wage/tax documents like a W‑2 or payroll stub (not a photocopy and under 18 months old).
- If not eligible for an SSN, bring a Social Security denial letter.
- Two proofs of West Virginia residency.
- Each must show your full name and physical address in West Virginia (no P.O. boxes).
- Common examples: utility bills, leases, rental agreements, bank statements.
- The DMV looks for items that recur and are dated within 60 days.
- Name change papers, if documents do not match.
- Examples: marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders linking each name used.
- For name questions, the DMV lists 1-800-642-9066.
A practical example: an asylum seeker with an unexpired EAD, an SSN card, and two current residency proofs usually meets the DMV’s REAL ID list without adding a passport.
Online pre-check: Real ID HeadStart
West Virginia’s Real ID HeadStart program lets you scan and upload documents before your visit so staff can review them early. The state says it can reduce in‑office time by up to 50%.
- Use the HeadStart portal: Real ID HeadStart.
- After upload, still bring the originals to the DMV for in‑person verification.
- Also use the DMV checklist tool at go.wv.gov/realid to confirm each document category before you go.
The in-person DMV visit: what to expect, step by step
Most first‑time REAL ID applicants finish in a single trip if they arrive with complete papers. Mike May, West Virginia’s REAL ID program manager, stresses first‑time applicants need full documents.
- Check that your documents match your legal name. If names differ, bring a name‑change document.
- Arrive with originals and be ready for scanning. Scans are returned; copies usually won’t work for identity or status papers.
- Answer basic questions and pay fees. The state charges an added $10 REAL ID fee on top of standard license/ID fees.
- Take the required photo and finalize your record. Staff confirm your address and submit the REAL ID order.
- Leave with a temporary paper credential that you can use immediately while you wait for the plastic card.
If your Social Security number does not match the SSA record, the DMV’s check will fail. You must fix that mismatch with SSA before returning; the DMV cannot override SSA verification.
Timing, delivery, and how long to plan for
- The DMV issues a temporary paper license or ID the same day.
- Your permanent REAL ID card arrives by mail in 10–15 business days.
- Plan for mail delays during holidays and severe weather, especially in remote parts of West Virginia.
If you must travel soon, book your DMV visit early. VisaVerge.com reports last‑minute applicants often face stress when flights or federal appointments come up fast.
Renewals, duplicates, and changes after you move
Renewals and duplicates usually take less effort when nothing has changed. Bring your current West Virginia license or ID and follow DMV prompts for REAL ID renewal.
Expect to provide full documentation again if any of the following apply:
- Address changed. Bring current proofs that show a physical address (not a mailing address) and dated within 60 days.
- Name changed. Provide marriage certificates, court orders, or other linking documents.
- Immigration/status document replaced or expired. The DMV requires a valid, unexpired DHS document. Renew your EAD or update status before applying.
Federal rules to keep in mind for flights and federal buildings
REAL ID is a federal standard, but states administer applications. The Department of Homeland Security’s official explainer is at dhs.gov/real-id. It lists federal uses for REAL ID and explains alternatives (for example, passports).
For many immigrants, practical choices are:
- Carry a passport everywhere, or
- Get a West Virginia REAL ID and keep the passport stored safely at home.
Either approach works, but the REAL ID path requires a careful document day at the DMV.
Tip: Make two copies of your folder checklist — keep one at home and take one with you to the DMV. That habit saves time for renewals, replacements, or unexpected requests for additional proof.
West Virginia immigrants with lawful status can obtain REAL ID-compliant identification by providing specific federal and residency documentation. With federal enforcement already active, these IDs are essential for domestic air travel and entering federal buildings. The state offers an online pre-check tool to expedite visits. Applicants should expect a $10 fee, an in-person photo, and mail delivery of the permanent card within two weeks.
