License renewal for seniors in West Virginia follows the “Drive for Five” program with enhanced requirements for those 75 and older, including in-person visits and vision screenings.
Renewal Cycles
Under the Drive for Five system, all licenses expire in years divisible by five after age 18 (e.g., 65, 70, 75). Seniors 75-79 renew in person every five years; those 80+ must renew every three years at a DMV office.
Online or kiosk renewal suits younger drivers without changes, but seniors typically need in-person due to tests.
A 2026 bill proposes formalizing 75+ in-person mandates with vision and functional screenings, though core rules persist.
Required Tests
Every renewal demands a free DMV vision screening (§17B-2-12a); failures require optometrist certification. Ages 80+ face added functional assessments like road signs or mobility checks; mature driver courses (8 hours) waive some for 75+.
Expired over six months? Retake written/road tests as first-timers.
Fees and Process
Base renewal: $26.25; add $5 late fee, $10 REAL ID, $7.50 per retake. Bring ID, proof of address, Social Security, and current license. Kiosks at Kroger/Sheetz handle simple cases 24/7.
| Age Group | Renewal Frequency | In-Person? | Key Tests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 75 | Every 5 years | Optional | Vision |
| 75-79 | Every 5 years | Yes | Vision + possible functional |
| 80+ | Every 3 years | Yes | Vision, functional |
| Course Takers (70+) | N/A | Waiver option | Fee discount $10 |
Practical Tips
Schedule via WV DMV site or call (304) 558-3900—waits shorten mid-week. Courses from AARP or local safety groups count toward waivers. No driving record triggers extra hurdles unless flagged.
Seniors retain independence with compliance; WV prioritizes safety without blanket restrictions.
SOURCES :
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/west-virginia-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://zutobi.com/us/wv-car/driver-guides/west-virginia-drivers-license-renewal
