Suspended License

Driving Privilege or Right

Driving isn't a right―it's a privilege. If you fail to treat it as such, you risk having your driver license suspended or revoked.

Check Your Driver's License Status

Whenever you need or want to check the status of your driver’s license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver’s license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what’s on record at the DDL. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.

Causes for Suspension or Revocation

There's more than one way to lose your license.

• 12 points within two years (or seven points if you're under 18), according to the Kentucky Driver Point System

• Driving under the influence (DUI)

• Three convictions of reckless driving in 12 months

• Stealing gas

• Leaving the scene of an accident (including failing to give your identity and aid)

• Driving without a license

• Driving without liability insurance

• Stealing a motor vehicle or any part of a motor vehicle

• Failing to satisfy court requirements (citations, summons, etc.)

• Failing to pay child support

• Failing to enroll in or complete State Traffic School if ordered by the court

• Failing to complete the Graduated License education course within one year of obtaining your driver license

• Illegally using your, or another's, driver license to purchase alcohol

• Fleeing/evading police

• Refusing a chemical test

• Violating the restrictions set by the Transportation Cabinet regarding motor vehicle operation

• Giving false information to the Transportation Cabinet

• Felony involving a motor vehicle

• Manslaughter involving a motor vehicle

Canceled Driving Privileges

Teens under the age of 18 can have their driving privileges canceled if their parents or legal guardians withdraw responsibility. Your local Circuit Court Clerk's office handles all withdrawn responsibility cases.

If your parents or legal guardians have withdrawn responsibility and/or your driving privileges have been canceled, you must wait until you're 18 to obtain your permit and license.

Hardship Licenses

A hardship license grants you the right to drive to and from specified locations even though your regular driver license has been suspended or revoked.

Once you receive a court order authorizing issuance, you can apply for a hardship license with your local Circuit Clerk's office for a $5 fee.

For more information about hardship licenses, including eligibility, replacements, and cancellation, check out the Kentucky Administrative Regulations.

License Reinstatement

Depending on the reason your license was suspended, you'll receive a set of requirements to resolve the issue and comply with Kentucky laws.

Once you're able to reinstate your license under the terms and conditions of your suspension or revocation, you'll need to pay a $40 reinstatement fee to your local Circuit Court Clerk's office or driver licensing field office. Checks must be made payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer.

Check out these FAQs for more information on reinstatement.