Motorcycle Laws in West Virginia

This page will answer the most common questions we receive about motorcycle laws and licensing requirements in  West Virginia.

Continue reading to find your answer and follow links to explore some of these topics in greater depth. 

Motorcycle Helmet Law in West Virginia

Motorcycle helmets are required for all riders.

Additional eye protection like a face shield or goggles is not required.

A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment. Wearing one can greatly reduce your chances of being seriously injured or killed if you are involved in a motorcycle crash. 

Read more about motorcycle helmet laws and safety.

West Virginia Motorcycle Noise Restrictions & Exhaust Requirements

A proper muffler is required.

Noise restrictions may be enforced by local law enforcement or during periodic inspections. 

Local jurisdictions may have their own ordinances regarding motorcycle noise limits.

Motorcycle Safety Inspections and Equipment Requirements

Period safety and equipment inspections for motorcycles in West Virginia are performed during each registration period.

Some of the equipment requirements for West Virginia motorcycles include:

• Mirrors.
• Turn signals.
• Handlebars can be no higher than 15” above the seat.

Motorcycle Passenger Laws in West Virginia

There are no passenger restrictions.

Whenever you ride with a passenger:

• Be sure to give them instructions on what they’ll need to do. 
• Make sure they can comfortably reach the passenger handholds and footrests. 
• Make sure that they are wearing all of the necessary motorcycle safety equipment.

Learn more about riding with passengers on your motorcycle.

Requirements for Daytime Running Lights for Motorcycles in West Virginia

Using daytime headlights is required for motorcycles in West Virginia.

Using headlights during the day can help to increase your visibility to other drivers. 

This is a smart thing to do regardless of whether the law requires it. 

West Virginia Lane Splitting Laws

Lane splitting is not specifically mentioned as legal or illegal in West Virginia.

There are some nuances to lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing. 

Learn more about lane splitting.

Motorcycle Title Laws & VIN Verifications

The state of West Virginia issues titles to all motorcycles.

If you buy a motorcycle without a title or are moving from a state that doesn’t issue titles, the registration documents and the Bill of Sale should serve as proof of ownership.

Learn more about motorcycle registration and title requirements in West Virginia.

Find some helpful tips for when you buy a motorcycle.

Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in West Virginia

Motorcycle insurance is required in West Virginia, the minimum coverage limits are:

• $25,000 bodily injury coverage per person.
• $25,000 bodily injury coverage per accident.
• $50,000 property damage coverage per accident. 

Remember, the minimum liability requirements kick in during the event of a collision with another vehicle. If you need more coverage for things like theft, single vehicle collisions, and other types of damage you’ll need to get a policy with comprehensive and collision coverage as well. 

Compare quotes for free, and find cheaper motorcycle insurance. 

Learn more about motorcycle insurance in West Virginia.

Motorcycle Safety Course Requirements & Details

An approved motorcycle safety course is required to get a motorcycle license in West Virginia.

Completing the course will waive the requirements for the skills test.

A motorcycle safety course is a great way to get familiar with the basics of riding, learn about the most important motorcycle laws, and become a safer, smarter rider. No riding experience is necessary to complete a course.  

Learn more about motorcycle safety courses and Basic Rider Training programs.

Is a Driver’s License Required to get a Motorcycle Endorsement in West Virginia?

Before you get a West Virginia motorcycle license, you will not need to already have a standard driver’s license. 

Motorcycle Permit & Licensing Requirements in West Virginia

A motorcycle instruction permit is required first..

If required, you’ll need to hold the learner’s permit and practice riding for at least 7 days before getting an unrestricted motorcycle license. 

In order to get the permit, you’ll need to pass a written test and skills test.

In West Virginia, motorcycle permit restrictions include:

• N0 passengers.
• Daytime riding only.

The permit is valid for up to 90 days, and can be renewed as needed.

Learn how to get a motorcycle license in West Virginia.

West Virginia Motorcycle License Age Requirements

The minimum age to begin the West Virginia motorcycle licensing process is 18 years old.