Kentucky driver's licenses are issued by the Department of Transportation at regional offices across the state, not by local county clerks or police departments

You cannot get a Kentucky driver's license online or by mail. You must visit a Regional Driver Licensing Office in person with your documents and pass a written test, vision test, and driving test. The state operates offices in most counties, though some rural areas require a drive to the nearest regional hub. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website.

The process takes one visit if you already have a valid out-of-state license (you skip the written and driving tests). If you are getting your first Kentucky license or yours has expired for more than three years, you will need to pass all three tests, which typically takes 30 to 45 minutes total. Bring the documents listed below — missing even one will send you home without a license.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit a Regional Driver Licensing Office in person; the state does not issue licenses by mail or online.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or documentation proving you do not have one.
  • If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you skip the written and driving tests and only take the vision test.
  • If you are getting your first license or yours expired more than three years ago, you must pass the written test, vision test, and road test.
  • Offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours; some locations have limited Saturday hours.

What documents you need to bring

Kentucky requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a state ID from another state, or a tribal ID. A school ID or work ID does not count. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with your Kentucky address. A bank statement or insurance bill also works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full number.

If you are under 18, bring the same documents plus written consent from a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian does not need to be present, but their signature must be notarized or witnessed by a Regional Driver Licensing Office employee.

Finding and visiting a Regional Driver Licensing Office

Kentucky has Regional Driver Licensing Offices in most counties. The main office is in Frankfort, but you can visit any regional office regardless of where you live. To find the office nearest you, go to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website, select "Driver Licensing," and enter your county or city. The site lists the office address, phone number, and hours of operation.

Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Some locations offer limited Saturday hours — check the website for your specific office. Arrive early if possible; offices do not take appointments, and wait times vary. During peak hours (late morning and early afternoon), you may wait 30 minutes to an hour. If you call ahead, staff can tell you whether the office is unusually busy that day.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. You will also need to fill out an process form when you arrive; staff can provide one or you can read it from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website before you go.

Taking the written test and vision test

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you skip the written test. If you are getting your first Kentucky license or your previous license expired more than three years ago, you must pass the written test before you can take the road test.

The written test covers Kentucky traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You can take the test on a computer at the office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost, though you may have to wait. Study materials are available free on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website.

Everyone takes a vision test, regardless of whether they hold an out-of-state license. The test checks your visual acuity and color vision. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you cannot proceed that day; you will need to see an eye doctor and return with proof of correction.

Taking the road test and what happens after

If you pass the written and vision tests (or skip the written because you have an out-of-state license), you schedule a road test. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes and covers a short route near the office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A friend or family member can drive you to the office, but you must be the one behind the wheel for the test.

If you pass the road test, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you may have to wait a few days or schedule another appointment. Check with the office about their retesting policy.

Fees and payment methods

A Kentucky driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license. The fee is the same whether you are getting your first license or renewing. Most offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. Ask when you call or arrive, as payment methods can vary by location.

If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the fee is the same. If you need to change your name or address on your license, you can do so at the same office without paying an additional fee — bring proof of the change (marriage certificate, court order, or utility bill with your new address).

If you cannot visit an office in person

Kentucky does not offer remote testing or mail-in licensing. If you are unable to visit an office due to disability or medical condition, contact the Regional Driver Licensing Office directly to discuss your situation. Some offices may be able to arrange accommodations, such as a curbside test or a test at a medical facility, but this is handled case-by-case and requires advance notice.

If you are moving out of Kentucky or need a license from another state, that state's DMV or transportation department will have its own process. Your Kentucky license does not transfer; you will need to get a new license in your new state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Kentucky license online?

No. You must visit a Regional Driver Licensing Office in person to renew. However, if your license is still valid and you only need to change your address, you can update it by mail by sending your license, a completed process form, and proof of your new address to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Check the website for the current mailing address.

What if I have an out-of-state license that is expired?

If your out-of-state license expired more than three years ago, Kentucky treats it as if you have never held a license. You must pass the written test, vision test, and road test. If it expired less than three years ago, you may only need the vision test — call your nearest Regional Driver Licensing Office to confirm.

Do I need an appointment?

No. Regional Driver Licensing Offices do not take appointments. You walk in during business hours and wait your turn. Arriving early in the day typically means shorter waits. Some offices may have a waitlist system; ask staff when you arrive.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test, but policies on timing and fees vary by office. Some offices let you retake it the same day; others require you to wait a few days or schedule another appointment. Ask the examiner or office staff about their specific retesting policy before you leave.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present to take the tests and receive your temporary license. Once your permanent license arrives by mail, anyone can open that envelope, but you must be the one to complete the testing process in person.