New bill would exempt West Virginia residents from having to obtain Real ID

CHARLESTON, W.Va (WDTV) - West Virginia Delegates have introduced a bill that would allow state residents to be exempt from having to obtain a Real ID.

House Bill 5514, introduced by Delegates Anders and Kimble, declares the Real ID Act of 2005 as harmful to West Virginians, stating that it causes residents unnecessary expense and inconvenience. It also claims the Real ID Act violates the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Under House Bill 5514, the Division of Motor Vehicles would have to immediately stop the mandatory implementation of Real ID standards. The DMV would also be required to report any attempts by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to implement Real ID in West Virginia.

Residents may choose to get a Real ID if they still want one.

Since May 2025, Real IDs have been required for domestic air travel and for entry into federal facilities.