How to Get a Driver's License in Pikeville, Kentucky

Where to go for a driver's license in Pikeville

The Pike County Clerk's Office in Pikeville handles driver's licenses for the county. You cannot get a license at the DMV because Kentucky does not have a separate DMV — the county clerk's office issues all licenses and handles renewals. The Pike County Clerk is located at 680 Main Street, Pikeville, KY 41501.

You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call ahead at (606) 432-6247 to confirm current hours before you go, since holiday schedules and staffing changes can affect when the office is open. The office does not take appointments, so you may wait in line depending on how busy they are that day.

If you cannot reach Pikeville, the nearest alternative is the Floyd County Clerk's Office in Prestonsburg, about 20 minutes away. However, you will still need to provide the same documents and pay the same fees no matter which county office you visit.

Key Takeaways

The Pike County Clerk's Office at 680 Main Street in Pikeville issues driver's licenses and handles renewals without appointments.
You will need a Social Security card, proof of residency, proof of identity, and a completed process form to get a new license.
A standard driver's license costs $20 and is valid for four years; a REAL ID license costs $30 and is valid for five years.
The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but you should call (606) 432-6247 to confirm hours before visiting.
If you are under 18, you must bring a parent or guardian and proof of their identity along with your own documents.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your original Social Security card or a certified copy. A photo on your phone or a screenshot will not work — the office needs the physical card or an official document from the Social Security Administration. If you have lost your card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213, though this takes one to two weeks.

You also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Pikeville address dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a bill in your name, a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation letter can work instead.

Bring a valid form of photo identification. An expired passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a birth certificate plus one additional document like a school ID or employee badge. The office will not accept a photocopy of your ID — it must be the original.

The process form and fees

You will fill out Form DL 44 at the Pike County Clerk's Office. You do not need to bring it completed — the staff will give you a blank form when you arrive and can help you fill it out if you have questions. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID.

A standard Kentucky driver's license costs $20 and is valid for four years. A REAL ID license costs $30 and is valid for five years. REAL ID is required if you want to use your license as identification to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you only need your license for driving and state ID purposes, the standard license is sufficient. The office accepts cash, check, and card payments.

You will also take a written test on Kentucky traffic laws and road signs, and a vision test. The office administers both on the spot. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra charge. You do not need to study in advance if you have driven before, but the Kentucky Driver Manual is available free online at transportation.ky.gov if you want to review.

If you are under 18

You must bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They need to bring their own photo ID and sign the process form in front of the clerk. If only one parent has custody, bring the custody paperwork or a court order showing that you have permission to get a license.

Drivers under 18 receive a Graduated Driver License (GDL), which has restrictions on when and how you can drive. For the first six months, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless a parent or guardian is in the car. After six months, you can drive until 1 a.m. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after 12 months of holding the GDL, whichever comes first. You do not pay extra for a GDL — it costs the same as a standard license.

What happens after you pass the test

Once you pass the written and vision tests, the clerk will take your photo and issue your license on the spot. You will walk out with a temporary paper license that day, valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks — the office will give you a mailing address confirmation slip so you can track it.

If your permanent license does not arrive within four weeks, call the Pike County Clerk's Office again. Occasionally mail is delayed, and the office can reissue or investigate. Do not drive without your temporary license once the 30 days expire — you need to show proof of your license if stopped by police.

Renewing your license in Pikeville

If your license is expiring soon, you can renew it at the same Pike County Clerk's Office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (same as above), and the renewal fee — $20 for a standard license or $30 for REAL ID. You do not need to retake the written or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than two years.

Kentucky also allows online renewal for some drivers through the state website at transportation.ky.gov, but only if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address. If you are unsure whether you may have access to for online renewal, the Pike County Clerk's Office can tell you when you call.

If you have a suspended or revoked license

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a new one until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You will need to contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet directly to find out the reason and what steps are required to restore your driving privileges. Call (502) 564-6800 or visit transportation.ky.gov to check your status.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. The process to restore your license varies depending on the reason. Some suspensions are lifted automatically after a set period; others require you to pay fines or complete a defensive driving course first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail from Pikeville?

Kentucky does not offer mail renewal. You must renew in person at the Pike County Clerk's Office or online through the state website if you are may be able to access. If you cannot visit Pikeville, you can renew at any county clerk's office in Kentucky.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra charge, or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. The office recommends reviewing the Kentucky Driver Manual before your next try.

How long does it take to get my permanent license in the mail?

Your plastic license arrives within two to three weeks of the day you pass your test. The office gives you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait. If it does not arrive within four weeks, contact the clerk's office to report it.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly domestically from Kentucky?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, a standard Kentucky driver's license will not be accepted as ID for domestic flights. You will need a REAL ID license, passport, military ID, or other federal ID. A REAL ID license costs $10 more than a standard license and lasts one year longer.

What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot get a replacement in time?

You cannot get a driver's license without a Social Security card or certified copy. Order a replacement from the Social Security Administration at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Standard processing takes one to two weeks. Expedited service is not available, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.