Where to go for your driver's license in Burlington
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing handles all driver's licenses in the state. In Burlington, you'll visit the Boone County Driver's License Office, located at 2687 Decoursey Pike, Burlington, KY 41005. This is the only place in Burlington where you can get a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged license.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You do not need an appointment — the office operates on a walk-in basis. Arrive early if you can, as wait times tend to be longer in the late morning and early afternoon.
If you cannot reach the Burlington office or want to confirm hours before you go, you can call the Kentucky Driver Licensing customer service line at 502-564-6800. They can also tell you whether the office has any temporary closures or schedule changes.
Key Takeaways
- The Boone County Driver's License Office in Burlington is at 2687 Decoursey Pike and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or proof of it, along with the correct fee.
- A new driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $30 for an eight-year license; renewals and replacements have different fees.
- If you are renewing by mail or online, you must have a valid Kentucky license and meet certain conditions — not all renewals can be done remotely.
- The office does not take appointments, so plan to arrive during a quieter time and bring all required documents to avoid a second trip.
What documents you need to bring
Kentucky requires you to bring specific documents no matter whether you are getting your first license, renewing, or replacing one. You must bring one form of primary identification — a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a certified birth certificate. A school ID, library card, or expired driver's license does not count as primary identification.
You also need proof of residency in Kentucky. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check — all dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. A phone bill or credit card statement does not work. If you live with someone else and are not on the utility bill, you can bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill.
Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or a tax return. If you do not have your card, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration. You will also need to pay the fee in cash or by debit card — the office does not accept credit cards or checks.
Fees and license types
A new driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $30 for an eight-year license. You choose which one you want when you explore. The eight-year license is valid longer but costs more upfront.
If you are renewing a license that has not yet expired, the fee is $20 for a four-year renewal or $30 for an eight-year renewal. If your license has already expired, you pay the same renewal fee, but the office may require you to retake the written test and the road test — this depends on how long it has been expired and whether you have had any violations. If you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the fee is $10.
Senior drivers (age 69 and older) pay a reduced fee of $5 for a four-year license or $10 for an eight-year license. Military members on active duty can renew for free if they have a valid military ID.
Getting your first driver's license
If you do not yet have a Kentucky driver's license, you will need to pass a written test and a road test. The written test covers Kentucky traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Kentucky Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website or in print at the Boone County office.
After you pass the written test, you will receive a learner's permit. With this permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver age 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You must hold the learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test. During this time, you cannot drive between midnight and 5:00 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving.
When you are ready for the road test, return to the Boone County office with your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The examiner will watch you drive and evaluate your ability to handle the vehicle safely. If you pass, you will receive your driver's license on the spot.
Renewing your license by mail or online
You do not have to go to the office in person if your license is still valid and you meet certain conditions. Kentucky allows you to renew by mail if your license has not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions in the past five years. You can also renew online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website if you meet the same conditions and your license was issued after 2009.
To renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal form (available on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website), and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two weeks. To renew online, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website, enter your license number and other information, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
If you have had any violations, suspensions, or medical conditions that might affect your driving, or if your license has expired, you must renew in person at the Boone County office. The same applies if you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot legally drive in Kentucky or most other states. A suspension is temporary — your license will be restored after a set period or after you meet certain conditions, such as paying a fine or completing a defensive driving course. A revocation is permanent unless you go through a formal process to have it reinstated.
If you believe your license has been suspended or revoked, call the Kentucky Driver Licensing customer service line at 502-564-6800 to find out why and what steps you need to take. You may need to contact the court that issued the suspension, pay outstanding fines, or provide proof of insurance. Do not attempt to drive until your license is restored — doing so is a criminal offense in Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it expired more than a year ago?
No. Online and mail renewals are only for licenses that have not yet expired. If your license has been expired for more than a year, you must go to the Boone County office in person and may need to retake the written and road tests. Call 502-564-6800 to ask whether tests will be required based on how long your license has been expired.
What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?
You can use a military ID or a state ID from another state as primary identification. If you have none of these, you can contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet at 502-564-6800 to ask what other documents they will accept. You may need to obtain a certified birth certificate from the state where you were born before you can get a driver's license.
Do I need to bring my vehicle to renew my license?
No, not for a renewal. You only need to bring your vehicle if you are taking the road test for a new license. For a renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency, proof of identity, and the fee.
How long does it take to get a new license after I pass the road test?
You receive your license the same day you pass the road test at the Boone County office. The office will take your photo and print your license while you wait, usually within 15 to 30 minutes.
What if I move out of Kentucky after I get my license?
Your Kentucky license remains valid in other states for the duration of its expiration date. If you move to another state permanently, you will eventually need to get a license from that state. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving there, so check the rules for your new state.