Where to renew and what you'll need
You can renew your Kentucky driver's license in person at any Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Driver Licensing office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
If you're renewing online, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You'll also need to upload a new photo using your phone or computer camera.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less, but only works if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Licensing office requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.
- Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you renew in person, or 5 to 7 business days after online renewal.
- Kentucky driver's licenses are valid for four years, and you can renew up to one year before your license expires.
Renewing online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
The online renewal process happens on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website. You'll log in with your driver's license number and personal information, answer questions about any changes to your address or medical conditions, upload a new photo, and pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card.
Online renewal costs $27.50 and takes about 10 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If you need your license sooner — for example, if you're traveling — you cannot use the online option; you'll need to renew in person and request expedited processing at the office.
Renewing in person at a Driver Licensing office
Walk into any Kentucky Driver Licensing office with your documents and take a number. Wait times vary by location and time of day; offices are typically less busy on weekday mornings and more crowded on Fridays and Saturdays. You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website.
At the counter, a staff member will check your documents, take a new photo, and process your renewal. The fee for a four-year license is $27.50. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use when ready, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If you need your license faster, ask about expedited processing when you arrive. Some offices offer it for an additional fee, though availability depends on the location.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it — you must reissue it instead, which means starting over with a new process. Reissue requires an in-person visit, a written test, and a driving test in some cases. You'll also need to bring additional documents, including proof of residency and proof of legal presence in the United States.
If your license expired fewer than 12 months ago, you can still renew it using the same process as an active license. Bring the same documents and follow the same steps, whether online or in person.
Renewing if you have medical restrictions or a CDL
If your license has medical restrictions noted on it — such as corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only — you must renew in person. The online option is not available for restricted licenses. Bring all the same documents plus any medical certification your restriction requires (for example, a vision test report if you wear corrective lenses).
If you hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), you cannot renew online under any circumstances. CDL renewals always require an in-person visit, a written test, and a medical examination. Schedule an appointment at your local Driver Licensing office before you go, because CDL renewals take longer and some offices require advance notice.
Timeline and what to expect after you renew
After you renew in person, you'll walk out with a temporary paper license valid when ready. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. During that time, the paper license is your proof of a valid driver's license and is accepted by police, employers, and banks.
After you renew online, your temporary license is sent by email and is valid when ready for most purposes, though some employers or agencies may not accept a digital copy. Your permanent plastic license arrives in 5 to 7 business days.
If your permanent license doesn't arrive within the stated timeframe, contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to report it. They can check the status of your renewal and reissue the license if it was lost in the mail.
Changing your address or name during renewal
If your address has changed, you can update it during renewal — either online or in person. Online, you'll enter your new address before you pay. In person, tell the staff member at the counter before they take your photo.
If your name has changed since your last license, you must renew in person and bring the document proving the change. Online renewal does not allow name changes. The document can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. Bring the original or a certified copy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I don't have a proof of address?
No. You must bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address — typically a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. If you don't have one, contact your utility company or bank to request a statement, or ask a family member whose name is on the lease or bill to provide a copy.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring a W-2, 1099, or other tax document showing your Social Security number instead. You do not need the card itself, only proof of the number. If you don't have any of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number.
Do I have to take a new photo when I renew?
Yes. Kentucky requires a new photo every time you renew your license. If you're renewing online, you'll take the photo yourself using your phone or computer camera. If you're renewing in person, the Driver Licensing office will take it for you.
How much does it cost to renew?
A four-year Kentucky driver's license renewal costs $27.50, whether you renew online or in person. If you request expedited processing at an office, there may be an additional fee, which varies by location.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must renew in person or online yourself. You cannot authorize another person to renew on your behalf, even a family member or attorney. If you are unable to visit an office, online renewal may be your only option.