The temporary paper permit issued at your WV DMV appointment is also valid ID while waiting for your plastic card. Carry it with you every time you drive or need to show identification.

Credential	What It Means	Federal Use
Standard WV permit marked "Not for Federal Use"	State-issued permit and photo credential for ordinary state uses	Not a REAL ID credential
WV permit issued as "For Federal Use"	REAL ID-compliant permit when the applicant meets the REAL ID document requirements	May be used where a REAL ID-compliant state credential is required
Temporary paper permit / issuance receipt	Temporary proof issued while the permanent card is being mailed	Do not assume every federal agency or private business will accept the paper document; check before relying on it

Where Does a WV Instruction Permit NOT Work as ID?

Several situations specifically require a full driver's license or REAL ID-compliant document - your WV instruction permit won't work.

Domestic Air Travel: TSA requires REAL ID-compliant credentials after federal enforcement deadlines. A standard WV permit marked "Not for Federal Use" won't pass TSA.
Federal Buildings: Access to federal facilities requires REAL ID-compliant documents.
Car Rentals: Rental agencies require a full, valid driver's license - not a permit.
Alcohol Purchases in Some Stores: Certain retailers require a driver's license specifically, not just any photo ID.
Voting: West Virginia's voter ID laws specify acceptable documents - verify your permit qualifies at your county clerk's office.

What Makes a West Virginia Permit Valid for ID Purposes?

Your WV permit is only valid ID when it's current, undamaged, and readable. A damaged permit creates immediate problems.

Check the West Virginia learner's permit guide for current rules, fees, and permit requirements.

The permit must not be expired
The barcode must be readable - a Parkersburg applicant's permit arrived with a damaged, unreadable barcode and had to file for replacement immediately - the WV DMV mails new hard copy cards within 10 to 14 business days
The name on the permit must match your other identifying documents exactly - name transpositions between your BC and SS card that caused WV DMV rejection will create the same mismatch problems when using the permit as ID

Don't drive on a damaged permit. File for replacement before using it as ID or getting behind the wheel.

Using Your WV Permit as ID: Practical Rules to Follow

A West Virginia instruction permit can be issued either as a standard credential marked "Not for Federal Use" or, when the REAL ID document requirements are met, as a "For Federal Use" REAL ID-compliant credential. Do not assume every WV permit is automatically non-REAL-ID.

A few practical rules prevent ID rejection situations.

Carry the plastic card, not a photocopy. Photocopies are not accepted as valid ID anywhere.
If your permit barcode is damaged or unreadable, file for replacement at a WV DMV office immediately. A duplicate permit replacement fee (typically $7.50) applies. Don't wait until you need to use it.
Keep your mailing address current - use the "Change of Address" link under the Driver's License Information section at dmv.wv.gov to ensure your permit reaches the right location. A returned permit card means replacement delays - and no valid ID in the meantime.
If you need REAL ID-compliant identification, you can upgrade to a "For Federal Use" (REAL ID) instruction permit, state ID, or driver's license at the WV DMV. Upgrading requires a $10 REAL ID surc

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