Documents required for a Kentucky license renewal
To renew your Kentucky driver's license, you need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current license or ID card. The state accepts a limited set of documents for each category — you cannot substitute one document for another, so knowing exactly what counts before you go to the clerk's office saves a trip back home.
Kentucky allows you to renew by mail, online, or in person at your county clerk's office. The documents you bring depend on which method you choose. Mail and online renewals have stricter document rules than in-person visits, because the clerk cannot see you in person to verify your identity.
Key Takeaways
- In-person renewal requires your current license, one proof of identity, and one proof of residency — all originals or certified copies.
- Mail renewal requires your current license plus a notarized signature on the renewal form, because the clerk cannot see you sign it.
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have a valid Social Security number on file with the state.
- Proof of residency must show your current Kentucky address and be dated within 60 days of your visit to the clerk's office.
- You cannot renew if your license has been suspended or revoked, even if the suspension is from another state.
What counts as proof of identity
Kentucky accepts a passport, military ID, or state ID card as proof of identity. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a certified copy of your birth certificate plus one additional document from the residency list below — the combination of the two counts as identity proof.
The document must be an original or a certified copy from the issuing agency. A photocopy of your passport or a photo of your birth certificate does not count. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the country where you were born.
What counts as proof of residency
Kentucky requires one document showing your current address. The document must be dated within 60 days of the date you visit the clerk's office. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy in your name.
Government mail counts — a property tax bill, vehicle registration, or voter registration card all work. A cell phone bill does not count, and neither does mail addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant." If you have recently moved and your documents still show an old address, bring the new document along with a letter from your landlord or mortgage company on letterhead confirming your current address.
Renewing in person at your county clerk's office
Bring your current Kentucky license, one proof of identity, and one proof of residency. All documents must be originals or certified copies. The clerk will take your photo and process your renewal on the spot. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You do not need an appointment at most county clerk's offices, but some accept walk-ins only during certain hours. Call your county clerk before you go to confirm their hours and whether they are currently processing renewals. The clerk's office phone number is on the Kentucky State Police website under your county.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change since your last renewal. You will need your current license, the renewal form (which you can read from the Kentucky State Police website), and a notarized signature on the form.
A notary public must watch you sign the renewal form — you cannot sign it yourself and have it notarized later. Banks, credit unions, and some libraries offer notary services for free or a small fee. Mail the completed form and your current license to the address on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the clerk receives your packet.
Renewing online
Online renewal through the Kentucky State Police website is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online only if your license is not expired, you have a valid Social Security number on file with the state, and you have not had a name change since your last renewal.
You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The state charges a fee for online renewal, which is the same as the in-person fee. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If the online system rejects your information, you will need to renew in person or by mail instead.
What to do if your license is expired or suspended
You cannot renew a license that has been suspended or revoked, even if the suspension is from another state. You must first resolve the suspension with the Kentucky State Police or the state that issued it. Contact the Kentucky State Police at 502-696-6000 to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do to clear it.
If your license expired more than three years ago, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to renewing. Call your county clerk's office to ask whether a test is required before you visit. Some clerks waive the test if you can show you have been driving legally in another state during the time your Kentucky license was expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have changed my name?
No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your name has changed. You must renew in person at your county clerk's office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The clerk will update your name and issue a new license.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can still renew in person or by mail. You will need to bring an original or certified copy of a document showing you do not have a Social Security number, such as a letter from the Social Security Administration. Online renewal is not available without a valid Social Security number on file.
How much does a Kentucky license renewal cost?
The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. Contact your county clerk's office for the current fee, as it may change. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the clerk's office; mail renewals require a check or money order.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No, you must renew in person, by mail with your own notarized signature, or online yourself. The clerk cannot process a renewal if someone else brings your documents or signs your name. If you are unable to visit the clerk's office, mail renewal is your best option.