Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Police Officer in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
DENTAL EXAMINERS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$54,570 median (28% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet West Virginia eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to DENTAL EXAMINERS and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in West Virginia
With a median salary of $54,570, Police Officers in West Virginia earn 28% below the national median of $76,290. West Virginia ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$54,570Hourly estimate
$26.2428% below national median
Difference: -$21,720
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#46 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $54,570 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $86,350 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $77,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $65,110 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $60,230 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $77,050 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
DENTAL EXAMINERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8779148266
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $49,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $41,500 | Degree required | 18 years |
| Security Guards | $37,220 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 18 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Police Officer in West Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Police Officer salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in West Virginia is $54,570. Salaries range from $39,780 (10th percentile) to $68,080 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Police Officers in West Virginia earn 28% below the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $54,570.
How many Police Officers work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 3,130 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer license to West Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Police Officers in West Virginia?
The licensing agency is DENTAL EXAMINERS. Review agency details at http://www.wvdentalboard.org/.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.