West Virginia DMV Name Change (Driver's License)

Before you visit the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV), you must update Social Security and then wait 24–48 hours for their systems to sync. Most DMVs check your new name against SSA data electronically, so if you go too soon you can be rejected. Start with the free West Virginia SS-5 step.

Bring the following to the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV):

• Certified marriage certificate showing the new legal name
• Original or certified copy of birth certificate (or valid U.S. passport)
• Current/updated Social Security card reflecting the new name
• Current WV driver's license or ID card to be replaced
• Two documents proving current WV residency (utility bill, voter registration card, rental agreement, etc.)

REAL ID note: WV DMV requires in-person application for any legal name change on a license/ID (no mail or online option). Bring proof of name change plus standard identity/residency documents; REAL ID upgrades need additional proof-of-residency documents per the DMV's Acceptable Documents list.

West Virginia fee: No online fee schedule confirmed; standard WV license fee is roughly $5/year of validity plus a $0.50 surcharge (e.g., ~$23.50 for a 5-year credential). Call 1-800-642-9066 to confirm current fee for your renewal cycle. This change generally must be done in person. You can confirm the current requirements on the official West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) page. To see how West Virginia compares with every other state, use our name change fee table.

Booking ahead can save you a wait at many West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) locations: West Virginia appointment options.