U.S. STATE · DRIVER LICENSE
West Virginia Driver License Photo Requirements
Find out whether you need to make a photo, where the state takes it, and what is known about online renewal and photo upload.
Sources reviewed: October 14, 2026 · photo law reviewed: October 18, 2026
Do you need to make a photo?
Do not prepare a separate photo unless the state agency or your transaction instructions specifically ask for one. The agency procedure below describes where a photo is captured and what is known about remote renewal.
This page covers a driver license. It does not automatically apply to learner permits, state identification cards, commercial endorsements, or every exception.
Photo law and requirements
W. Va. Code § 17B-2-8(a) requires each driver license to include a color photograph of the licensee. Under § 17B-2-12a(c)(2), a renewing applicant must obtain a new color photograph from the Division, except as provided in subsection (b); subsection (b) lets the Commissioner offer a web-based renewal process, but requires the applicant's digital photo to be updated at least once every sixteen years. The statutes reviewed do not say who takes the photo beyond requiring it to be obtained from the Division. The controlling photo statutes were reviewed; the Division's legislative rules (91 CSR) have not been reviewed.
Where the photo is taken
WV DMV directs customers completing renewal and identity verification at a regional office to bring the renewal notice and identity documents. The public material reviewed does not explicitly say whether every in-person renewal captures a new portrait. A substantial appearance change may require an office visit to update the image on file.
Online renewal, photo reuse, and upload
Eligible customers can renew online using the PIN mailed with the renewal notice. The online renewal page does not describe a portrait upload or establish whether the stored credential photo is reused. A selfie used to enroll in WV Mobile ID is for identity verification, not a stated driver-license portrait submission.
New photo upload: Only treat upload as allowed when the linked official instructions explicitly say so.
Scope and limitations
The photo method for remote renewal remains unresolved in the public instructions reviewed. Do not treat a Mobile ID selfie as a credential photo.
Official laws, rules, and agency sources
- WV DMV — Driver's licenses and ID cards
- WV DMV — Photo testing schedule and renewal instructions
- WV DMV — Online renewal portal
- W. Va. Code § 17B-2-8 — issuance and contents of licenses, color photograph (official code)
- W. Va. Code § 17B-2-12a — renewal, new photograph, online renewal 16-year photo update (official code)
Check your exact application
Renewal eligibility and photo handling can depend on your record and transaction.
Open the interactive photo checker