Kentucky driver's license renewal basics
Kentucky allows you to renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a driver's licensing office. The method you choose depends on your license type, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most standard licenses can be renewed up to one year before they expire, which gives you a window to plan ahead.
Your Kentucky license is valid for five years from the date of issue. The expiration date appears on the front of your card. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it—you must retest and explore for a new license instead. If your license expires within the next year, you can begin the renewal process now.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website is the fastest option for most people and takes about 10 minutes if you have a valid email address and Social Security number.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license, a completed form, and a check or money order to the state.
- In-person renewal at a driver's licensing office is necessary if you need a new photo, have a commercial license, or want to change your address on the same day.
- The renewal fee is $20 for a standard five-year license, and you must have a valid Social Security number and proof of Kentucky residency to renew.
Online renewal through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website lets you renew online if your license is not expired and you meet basic requirements. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid email address. The system will verify your identity using information from your license record.
To start, go to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's online renewal portal. You will answer questions about your current address, any name changes, and whether you want to update your information. The system will show you the renewal fee and allow you to pay by debit or credit card. After you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
Online renewal does not include a new photo—your current photo will be used on your renewed license. If you need a new photo or want to change your address and have it printed on your license the same day, you must renew in person.
Mail renewal and what to send
To renew by mail, you will need to complete Form DL 44 (process for Kentucky Driver's License or Permit), which you can read from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website or pick up at any driver's licensing office. Fill out the form with your current information, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license and payment.
The renewal fee is $20, payable by check or money order made out to the Kentucky State Treasurer. Do not send cash. Mail your completed form, license, and payment to the address listed on the form—this is typically the driver's licensing office in Frankfort. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your materials.
Keep a copy of your form and note the date you mail it. If you do not receive your new license within four weeks, contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to check the status. Mail renewal uses your current photo, so you will not have a new one on your renewed license.
In-person renewal at a driver's licensing office
Visit a driver's licensing office if you need a new photo, want to update your address on the license itself, or hold a commercial driver's license. Bring your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of Kentucky residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
You will have your photo taken at the office, answer questions about your driving record and medical history, and pay the $20 renewal fee by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The office will issue you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed. Your new license typically arrives within two weeks.
Driver's licensing offices are located in most Kentucky counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require an appointment. Call ahead or check online to see whether you need to schedule a time.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your Kentucky driver's license has expired, you cannot renew it—you must explore for a new license instead. This means you will need to pass the written test, vision test, and road test again. You will also need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency, just as you would for a first-time process.
Contact your local driver's licensing office to schedule a road test appointment. The written and vision tests can usually be taken the same day. Bring the same documents you would bring for in-person renewal, plus any additional documents required for a new process (such as proof of legal presence if you are not a U.S. citizen).
Address changes and name changes during renewal
If you are renewing online or by mail and your address has changed, you can update it in the system or on the form. However, the new address will not appear on your physical license—it will be updated in the state's records only. Your license will still show your old address until you renew in person.
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Online and mail renewal cannot process name changes. The new name will appear on your renewed license.
Fees and payment methods
The standard renewal fee for a five-year Kentucky driver's license is $20. This fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Payment methods vary by renewal method: online renewal accepts debit or credit card, mail renewal requires check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
If you are renewing a commercial driver's license, the fee may be higher. Check the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website or call your local office for the exact fee for your license type. No refunds are issued if you change your mind after paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Kentucky license if I live out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online if your license is not expired and you meet the identity verification requirements. You will need a Kentucky address on file or proof of residency from when you last renewed. If you have moved out of state permanently, contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to discuss your options.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Online and mail renewals typically take two to three weeks from the date the office processes your request. In-person renewal is faster—you receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent license arrives within two weeks. If you do not receive your license within four weeks, contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
What if I need my license before the renewal arrives?
If you renew in person, you get a temporary paper license valid for 30 days on the same day. If you renew online or by mail, you can print a temporary license from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website after your renewal is processed, or contact your local office to request one.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
Online and mail renewal use your current photo. Only in-person renewal includes a new photo. If you want a new photo but do not need to change your address or name, you can still renew online or by mail and then visit an office later to request a photo update for a separate fee.
What if my Social Security number has changed?
Contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet before you renew. You will need to provide documentation of the number change and may need to renew in person. Call your local driver's licensing office or the main office in Frankfort for instructions.