CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A newly introduced bill in the West Virginia House of Delegates would make it easier for high school students to obtain a driver’s license by allowing them to skip DMV testing under certain conditions.
House Bill 4536, introduced during the 2026 Regular Legislative Session, would allow students who successfully complete an approved high school driver education course to waive the written and road skills exams normally required by the Division of Motor Vehicles.
Under the proposal, certified driver education teachers would administer the written and road tests as part of the course. Upon successful completion, students would receive a High School Driver Education Certificate, which the DMV would accept in place of its own exams for up to six months.
If the certificate expires before the student applies for a license, full testing at the DMV would still be required. The bill also makes clear that minors under 18 who transfer an out-of-state driver’s license would not qualify for the waiver and must complete both written and road exams.
All standard licensing fees would still be paid directly to the DMV, even when testing is waived.
Supporters say the bill would streamline the licensing process, reduce wait times at DMV offices, and recognize the role of certified driver education programs in preparing young drivers.
House Bill 4536 has been referred to the House Committee on Education for further consideration
