West Virginia DMV Introduces New Driver's License Design Featuring Iconic New River Gorge Bridge

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will begin issuing new driver's licenses and identification cards with a design featuring the state's New River Gorge Bridge. The move is part of the state's tourism branding efforts and was announced by Governor Jim Justice on Tuesday.

The new design includes a background of the New River Gorge Bridge in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and uses the official state branding, "Almost Heaven." The Almost Heaven tourism mark is also included on the back of each card. The brand was introduced by Governor Justice in 2018 and is now widely used in tourism advertising, welcome centers, signage, turnpike booths, and state parks.

Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby said the new design is "another opportunity to promote our great state." Commissioner of the West Virginia DMV, Everett Frazier, added that the new credentials also contain state-of-the-art security features to reduce fraud and identity theft.

West Virginians can apply for a duplicate license or ID card with the new design before their renewal period by visiting the DMV website or any 25 regional DMV offices across the state. Those interested in renewing their driver's license online can do so through the DMV's Online Services Portal. The REAL ID Head Start pre-enrollment program is also available, allowing residents to upload their documentation before visiting a regional office.

For more information, visit the DMV website at dmv.wv.gov.