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Drivers in the Military in West Virginia
West Virginia is proud of its armed forces members and recognizes that expiration dates are nowhere on your priority list when the time comes to answer the call of duty. Therefore, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers renewal extensions and special orders for drivers in the military.
Active Duty License Renewal
If you're a West Virginia driver in the military and temporarily stationed out of state when your license is due for renewal, the DMV will renew your license upon request. However, renewal request isn't necessary―drivers in the military are allowed to carry their expired licenses for up to six months.
If you wish to renew your license closer to your expiration date, provide the DMV with a copy of your military identification card, a copy of your proof of insurance, and two proofs of residency. Although you won't receive a new driver's license until you return to WV, you will receive a certified driving record that indicates your license has been renewed and shows the next expiration date.
Active Duty Vehicle Registration Renewal
In order to renew your registration while you're stationed out of state, you must contact the DMV with a copy of your old registration card or your renewal notification, a copy of your military identification card, a copy of your proof of insurance, and the $30 fee for your license plate. Note that the new plate will be sent to the address the DMV has on record.
For further information or to request an extension on registration, contact the DMV at:
- West Virginia Department of Transportation
- Division of Motor Vehicles
- Building 3, Room 113
- (304) 558-3900 or (304) 558-3900
Inactive Duty Renewal
If you're honorably separated from active duty, the DMV will extend the expiration of your driver's license for six months from the separation date.
Military License Plates
If you're a veteran or surviving spouse of one, you might be interested in ordering a special veteran or surviving spouse license plate. See our License Plates section for ordering and availability details.
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