Applying for a New License

This section aids those applying for a driver’s license for the first time. However, teen drivers and new residents can find more detailed information in other sections on our site. This includes those who have just hit adolescence, out-of-state students, or non-U.S. citizens.

The state of Kentucky consults the National Driver Register for all new applicants, meaning that if your license from another state was revoked or suspended, you will not be eligible for a KY license until the previous issue is resolved.

First-Time Applicants

In order to get your Kentucky driver license or permit you must be at least age 16; if you are under the age of 18 a parent or legal guardian must sign for you.

When you apply for your driver license, you'll also have the chance to register to vote or sign up to become a donor, and males between the ages of 18 and 26 can register for Selective Service.

All licenses are issued at your local Circuit Court Clerk's office. Take your birth certificate, Social Security card, and the appropriate fees.

Note that the name on your driver license or permit needs to be your legal name. You'll need to take any court documents, marriage licenses, or divorce decrees as proof of any name changes. If the name on your Social Security card doesn't match the name on your license or permit, you'll need to make the necessary changes with the Social Security Administration.

Learn the Rules

It's a good idea to make sure you know the Kentucky rules of the road before taking your written and driving tests.

Even if you don't have to retake the tests (if you're transferring from another state, for instance), it's a good idea to make sure you know this state's laws.

Refresh your memory or learn the basics in the Kentucky Drivers Manual.

Instruction Permit

The first step in getting your driver license is to obtain your permit, and you must be at least 16 to do so. Go to your local Circuit Court Clerk's office to take the written knowledge and vision tests.

You'll need to bring your birth certificate, Social Security card, and a parent or legal guardian (who must sign the application for you).

If you fail the permit test, you may take it again the next day. If you pass―congratulations! You've earned your permit. You'll now be allowed to drive between 6 a.m. and midnight, as long as you are always accompanied by a driver age 21 or over.

Note that if you are at least age 16 and already hold a permit from another state, you must transfer your permit and be issued a Kentucky permit before you can obtain a KY driver license.

Permits are valid for one year.

Driver License

After you've had your permit for at least 180 days you can call your Circuit Court Clerk's office to make an appointment for the driving skills test.

You'll need to bring a vehicle that is registered and one you are comfortable driving. Also make sure you have proof of insurance.

If you fail the driving skills test, you may take it again in one week. If you pass―congratulations! You've earned your provisional driver license.

The provisional phase will last until you turn 18, at which point you will have adult driving privileges (with the exception of the Zero Tolerance law).

Your provisional license also means you will be in danger of losing your license if you accumulate more than seven points for traffic violations. This seven-point rule is stricter than the 12-point rule for adults 18 and over.

Required Testing

New applicants will need to pass a skills test, written test, and vision test. The Kentucky State Police will perform all driving skills tests, and you can make an appointment with your Circuit Court Clerk's office.

Special Testing Circumstances

If you're a new resident and have a valid license, you won't be required to take the tests again.

Drivers who have had their licenses suspended for less than one year won't have to take any tests to reinstate their licenses. However, those who have had their licenses suspended for more than one year will be required to pass both the vision and written tests.

Drivers who have had their licenses suspended for five years or more will have to start the application process all over as a new driver, including retaking all tests.

Driving Privileges for Non-Citizens

If you're visiting Kentucky and are currently licensed in another country, you may drive in the state for up to one year.

Make sure you also get an International Driver Permit, issued from your home country. The permit basically translates your license to make it understandable to U.S. officials. Carry both your license and permit with you whenever you're driving.

If you're interested in applying for a Kentucky license, the path you'll take differs according to a variety of factors, including your legal status and your home country. The state provides direction about the specific steps you'll need to take for your situation.

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