Certifications & licenses in West Virginia
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in WV. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about West Virginia
Licensing landscape in West Virginia
In 2023, West Virginia increased the minimum required massage therapy training hours from 500 to 625.
West Virginia Massage Therapy Licensure Board
As of a 2022 legislative change, West Virginia no longer requires continuing education for the renewal of cosmetology and barber licenses.
West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists
EMT certification in West Virginia requires the completion of a 150-hour course and passing the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
West Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services
To become a journeyman electrician, West Virginia requires 8,000 hours of hands-on experience or completion of a 1,080-hour vocational course.
West Virginia Office of the State Fire Marshal
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in West Virginia
A $50,000 salary in West Virginia has the approximate purchasing power of a $59,000 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
Regional comparison: West Virginia vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs WV |
|---|---|---|
| WV | $36,720 | — |
| PA | $44,590 | +21% vs WV |
| OH | $39,010 | +6% vs WV |
| MD | $43,240 | +18% vs WV |
| VA | $43,200 | +18% vs WV |
| KY | $38,370 | +4% vs WV |
| State | Required training hours | vs WV |
|---|---|---|
| WV | 625 hours | — |
| PA | 600 hours | -25 hours |
| OH | 750 hours | +125 hours |
| MD | 750 hours | +125 hours |
| VA | 500 hours | -125 hours |
| KY | 600 hours | -25 hours |
Healthcare in West Virginia
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $36,720 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $37,960 |
| EMT | Required | $34,360 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $55,360 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $37,180 |
| Medical Coder | No | $47,360 |
| Paramedic | Required | $48,460 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $38,210 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $39,250 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $74,150 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $80,130 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $68,670 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $49,110 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $73,840 |
Skilled Trades in West Virginia
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $49,480 |
| Electrician | Required | $64,810 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $48,850 |
| Plumber | Required | $56,980 |
| Welder | No | $48,810 |
Personal Care & Wellness in West Virginia
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $38,120 |
| Barber | Required | — |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $34,480 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $46,600 |
Professional & Business in West Virginia
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $73,320 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $59,000 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $45,480 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $59,050 |