How to get a Kentucky Driver's License
Find out how to get a new KY driver's license and replace your out-of-state license with this Kentucky DMV guide.
The Rules
Under KT DMV guidelines, you must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Kentucky Drivers License.
All applicants need to be familiar with the Kentucky Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license, you will need to apply for a Kentucky learners permit which requires a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test in addition to vision and hearing tests to receive a KY drivers license.
Applicants under 18 must have held a learners permit for 6 months and log 50 hours of supervised driving time before taking the road skills test.
New KY Residents
New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a Kentucky driver's license within 30 days of establishing a permanent residence in KY. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid out-of-state license to a KY driver's license, however you may need to pass the vision test.
If you have an expired out-of-state license you will be required to must pass the written exam and vision test.
International Drivers
All non U.S. citizens applying for a first time Kentucky license, with the exception of permanent residents, are required to take the written, vision and road tests.
Paperwork
Before you head to the Kentucky DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class D driver's license will be valid for 4 years. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
Kentucky Driver's Manual |
