West Virginia CDL Resources
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
This page collects official CDL resources for West Virginia: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official West Virginia government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Official resources to check first
West Virginia CDL resources are managed by WV DMV (transportation.wv.gov/DMV). Verify current requirements at transportation.wv.gov/DMV.
No direct CDL handbook link is listed for West Virginia yet. Visit the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.
CDL licensing through West Virginia DMV
West Virginia CDL applicants apply through the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, which is part of the Department of Transportation. Knowledge tests and CLP issuance are handled at WV DMV offices. The CLP must be held at least 14 days before the CDL skills test. New Class A and Class B applicants must complete ELDT at an FMCSA Training Provider Registry listed provider before the skills test. West Virginia uses both state and authorized third-party CDL examiners. Verify current testing locations, fees, and scheduling at transportation.wv.gov/DMV.
West Virginia CDL and coal/energy transport
West Virginia's coal mining industry — though smaller than its historical peak — continues to generate commercial vehicle activity including coal haul operations. CDL holders in coal transport should be aware that coal haul trucks on certain West Virginia routes may operate under state permit conditions with weight limits different from standard federal limits — verify with WV DOT. CDL holders transporting hazardous materials (coal processing chemicals, mining explosives) require current HazMat endorsement including TSA clearance. West Virginia's mountainous terrain creates significant grade-driving challenges. Verify CDL requirements at transportation.wv.gov/DMV.
Before you apply or renew
These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before beginning the application process.
- Verify your CDL class (A, B, or C) matches the vehicles you intend to operate.
- Check whether you need endorsements (HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, School Bus, Doubles/Triples) and confirm state testing requirements for each.
- Confirm you hold a valid DOT medical certificate (MCSA-5876) and that it is current before applying or renewing.
- If you are a new CDL applicant, confirm whether ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) applies to your situation — see the ELDT overview.
- Gather required documents — identity, residency, and any existing license — before visiting a testing location.
- Confirm current fees and testing appointment availability directly with the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Medical certificate
CDL holders operating in interstate commerce must carry a current DOT medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. West Virginia state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the current procedure.
For West Virginia-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website .
- Learn about medical card requirements: DOT Medical Card Explained
- Track expiration dates: Medical Card Expiration Tracker
ELDT — Entry-Level Driver Training
Federal ELDT requirements apply to new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and to certain endorsements. Training must be completed at a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not administer ELDT — training is completed at a registered provider before you schedule the skills test.
- Find an ELDT provider: FMCSA Training Provider Registry
- See who needs ELDT: Who Needs ELDT?
- ELDT for small fleets and owner-operators: ELDT for Small Fleets
Federal references
Last reviewed: May 29, 2026. Links go to official state agency websites. Verify that your browser shows the official state government domain before submitting any forms or payments.