Get a replacement license by visiting your county clerk's office in person with proof of identity and residency
Kentucky does not issue replacement licenses by mail or online. You must appear in person at your county clerk's office with the right documents, pay the replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes on the day you visit, though you may wait depending on how busy the office is.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot drive legally without a license, so plan your visit before you need to be on the road. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the clerk's office on the same day.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your county clerk's office in person with a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current Kentucky address.
- The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license, and you pay at the time of your visit.
- Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, and you can request a temporary paper license to drive in the meantime.
- If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it to local police first, though this is not required to get a replacement.
What documents you need to bring
Bring one government-issued photo ID — a passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two non-photo documents that prove your identity, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
You also need proof that you live in Kentucky right now. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address will do. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved and your address has not updated on any bills yet, a signed letter from your landlord or a lease agreement counts as proof of residency.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized — you will need it to complete the process. If you have your old license, bring that too, though it is not required.
Finding your county clerk's office and hours
Each Kentucky county has one clerk's office that handles driver's licenses. Search online for "[your county name] Kentucky clerk's office" to find the address, phone number, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some stay open one evening per week.
Call ahead if you can. The clerk's office can tell you how long the wait is and confirm that you have the right documents. Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others let you schedule an appointment online or by phone. Scheduling saves you time if the option is available.
If you live in a rural county far from the main clerk's office, ask whether there is a satellite location or a mobile office that visits your area. Not all counties have these, but some do.
The replacement fee and payment methods
A standard replacement license costs $20. You pay this fee at the clerk's office when you submit your process. Most offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A few smaller offices may accept cash only, so call ahead if you want to confirm.
If you are replacing a license that expired more than three years ago, you may have to pay a reinstatement fee in addition to the replacement fee. The clerk's office will tell you the total cost when you call or arrive.
Getting a temporary license to drive right away
Ask for a temporary paper license when you submit your process at the clerk's office. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and lets you drive legally while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail. You do not pay extra for it.
The temporary license is printed on the spot before you leave the office. Write down the number and keep it with you when you drive. If you are pulled over, show the temporary license along with your proof of identity. Some officers may not be familiar with Kentucky's temporary licenses, so having your receipt from the clerk's office can help explain what it is.
What to do if your license was stolen
If someone stole your license rather than you straightforward losing it, you can report it to your local police department. This creates a record in case the license is used fraudulently. However, reporting it to police is not required to get a replacement — you can go straight to the clerk's office.
If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting one of them. They will notify the other two. A fraud alert makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Replacing your license if you have changed your name
If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that proves the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. The clerk's office will note the name change on your new license.
If you do not have the original document, you can order a certified copy from the county clerk's office where the event was recorded (the county where you were married, divorced, or where the court order was filed). This usually takes a few days and costs $10 to $25. Plan ahead if you need a certified copy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online or by mail?
No. Kentucky requires you to appear in person at your county clerk's office. You cannot complete a replacement through the mail or online, even if you have a valid Kentucky ID or passport.
How long does it take to get my new license after I explore?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, request a temporary paper license at the clerk's office on the day you explore. The temporary is valid for 30 days.
What if I moved out of state — can I still replace my Kentucky license?
No. You must have a current Kentucky address to get a replacement. If you have moved to another state, you will need to get a license from that state instead. Contact your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles for their process.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
It depends on your county. Some clerk's offices accept walk-ins only, while others let you schedule an appointment online or by phone. Call your county clerk's office to find out their policy. Scheduling usually means a shorter wait.
What if I cannot find my Social Security number before I go?
You will need your Social Security number to complete the process. If you do not have it memorized and cannot find it before your visit, call the clerk's office and ask whether you can provide it by phone or mail after your appointment. Some offices will let you do this, though it may delay your license being mailed.