What you need to get a Kentucky driver's license

Kentucky issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation, Division of Driver Licensing. To get your first license or renew an expired one, you'll need to visit a Regional Driver's Licensing Office in person — you cannot complete this entirely by mail or online.

Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test covering Kentucky traffic laws. If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. Kentucky does not require a road test for a standard driver's license, though you may be asked to demonstrate basic vehicle control in some cases.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Regional Driver's Licensing Office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address.
  • Kentucky driver's licenses are valid for five years for adults and four years for drivers under 21.
  • You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal.
  • The written test covers Kentucky traffic laws, speed limits, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices.
  • Fees vary depending on the type of license and whether you are renewing or getting a new license for the first time.

How long a Kentucky driver's license lasts

A standard Kentucky driver's license is valid for five years from the date of issue if you are 21 or older. If you are under 21, your license is valid for four years. Once your license expires, you cannot legally drive — renewal must happen before the expiration date on your card.

Kentucky will send you a renewal notice by mail about 60 days before your license expires. The notice includes your license number and expiration date. Keep this notice; you'll need it if you renew by mail. If you do not receive a notice, you can check your expiration date on your current license or contact your local Regional Driver's Licensing Office.

Renewing by mail versus in person

If your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions listed on your current license, your name and address have not changed, and you are at least 21 years old, you can renew by mail. Complete the renewal form that comes with your notice, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail both to the address shown on the form. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks.

You must renew in person if your license is suspended, if you have medical restrictions, if your name or address has changed, if you are under 21, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL). In-person renewal at a Regional Driver's Licensing Office usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. Bring the same documents you would bring for a new license.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions and covers Kentucky traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is available in English and Spanish.

You can study using the Kentucky Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Department of Transportation website. The manual covers everything on the test. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though some offices may ask you to return another day. There is no additional fee to retake the test.

Driver's license fees in Kentucky

The cost of a new driver's license depends on the type and how long it is valid. A standard five-year license for an adult costs one amount; a four-year license for a driver under 21 costs less. A mail renewal costs less than an in-person renewal. Commercial driver's licenses and endorsements (such as a motorcycle endorsement) have separate fees.

Kentucky accepts cash, check, money order, and debit or credit card at Regional Driver's Licensing Offices. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order. Senior citizens (65 and older) and people with disabilities may be may have access to to reduced fees; ask at your local office or call ahead to confirm.

Finding your nearest Regional Driver's Licensing Office

Kentucky has Regional Driver's Licensing Offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Department of Transportation website by entering your county or city. The website shows the office address, phone number, and hours of operation. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. Hours vary by location.

Call ahead before you go. Many offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some accept appointments. Calling ahead also lets you confirm that the office has the documents you need and can answer questions about your specific situation — for example, if you have a name change or are renewing a commercial license.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

A suspended license means you cannot legally drive for a set period. A revoked license means your driving privilege has been taken away and you must reapply to get a new license. Suspensions and revocations happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, DUI convictions, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or failing to pay child support.

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license until the suspension ends or the revocation is lifted. Contact the Department of Transportation or the court that issued the suspension or revocation to find out what you must do to restore your driving privilege. In some cases, you must pay fines, complete a driver improvement course, or wait out a waiting period. Once the suspension or revocation is resolved, you can renew or reapply in person at a Regional Driver's Licensing Office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Kentucky driver's license online?

No. Kentucky does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if you meet the requirements, or you must visit a Regional Driver's Licensing Office in person. Mail renewal is the closest option to remote renewal and typically takes two to three weeks.

What if I lost my driver's license?

Report the loss to your local police department and get a report number. Then visit a Regional Driver's Licensing Office with your proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. You'll pay a replacement fee, which is less than the cost of a new license. You do not have to retake the written test.

Do I need a road test to get a Kentucky driver's license?

No. Kentucky does not require a road test for a standard driver's license. You must pass the vision test and written knowledge test. A road test is required only for a commercial driver's license (CDL) or certain endorsements.

How do I add a motorcycle endorsement to my Kentucky license?

Visit a Regional Driver's Licensing Office and request the motorcycle endorsement. You'll need to pass a written test on motorcycle safety and operation, and you must pass a road test on a motorcycle. Some people take a motorcycle safety course, which may waive the road test requirement — ask the office whether your course qualifies.

What if my name changed since my last license?

Bring your current license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and your other required documents to a Regional Driver's Licensing Office. You must renew in person; mail renewal is not an option. You'll pay the renewal fee and do not have to retake the written test unless your license has expired.