West Virginia Driving Theory Test FAQ
The questions learners ask most before and around test day — process and logistics, not rules. Have a more general question that isn't specific to West Virginia? Check the general FAQ instead.
Looking for the rules likely to be on the actual test?Read the West Virginia cheat sheet →How many questions are on the West Virginia knowledge test, and what score do I need to pass?
West Virginia's knowledge exam has at least 25 questions, and you need to answer 19 correctly (76%) to pass.
What's the minimum age to get a Level 1 GDL Instruction Permit in West Virginia?
You must be at least 15, pass a vision screening and knowledge test, and have written parental or guardian consent on form DMV-DS-23P.
How many supervised driving hours do I need for a West Virginia Level 2 GDL Intermediate License?
A parent or guardian-certified log of 50 hours behind the wheel, including at least 10 at night, or completion of an approved driver's education course.
Can I drive at night on a West Virginia Level 1 GDL Instruction Permit?
Only between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the right front seat.
What happens if I get two convictions on my West Virginia Level 1 GDL Instruction Permit?
Your permit is revoked for 90 days, and you'll need to reapply and retest once the revocation ends.
Do I have to get a Level 3 GDL license once I qualify for it in West Virginia?
No -- it's optional. You can apply for it, or simply keep following your Level 2 license's restrictions until you turn 18.
How much does the West Virginia knowledge test cost?
$7.50 per attempt, and a Level 1 GDL Instruction Permit itself costs a separate $7.50.
What documents do I need for a West Virginia GDL permit application?
A certified birth certificate, a Social Security card signed by you, and -- if you're under 18 applying for a Level 1 GDL permit -- parental or guardian consent on form DMV-DS-23P.
What's West Virginia's minimum liability insurance requirement?
$25,000 for one death or injury, $50,000 for two or more, and $25,000 for property damage.
Can I check my West Virginia driving record or points online?
Yes -- DMV Online Services (go.wv.gov/selfservice) lets you check your license status and points, and view or purchase a driving record for $12.50.
What happens if I fail the West Virginia permit test?
You can retake it, but each attempt needs a new $7.50 fee. The manual doesn't set a retry limit or waiting period for the knowledge test.
Sources
- West Virginia Driver's Licensing Handbook (WV Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles, Revised 07/2022) — download our hosted copy (PDF)
- West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) — official website
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Rules, fees, and requirements change — always confirm current details withWV DMV before your exam. FAQ v1.0, last checked 2026-08-04.