GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Who needs a Kentucky driver’s license?
Any resident in Kentucky who drives a motor vehicle.
Who can apply for a Kentucky driver’s license?
Any person who is at least 16 years old and whose driving privilege has not been withdrawn in Kentucky or in any other state.
What is the age requirement to obtain a Kentucky learner’s permit?
You must be at least 18 years of age in order to apply for a driver’s license.
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s permit.
Can I apply for a Kentucky driver’s license if I am younger than 18 years old?
You must be at least 16 years old and follow the steps of the Kentucky Graduated Licensing Program.
Which documents do I need to provide to apply for a Kentucky driver’s license?
- Social Security Card;
- Birth Certificate;
- Signature and license/social security number of a parent/legal guardian for applicants under age 18;
- School compliance verification form for applicants under age 18;
- “No Pass/No Drive” form.
Do I have to pass a vision test?
Yes, the KY State Police License Examiner will administer a vision screening test.
Where can I apply for a Kentucky driver’s license?
At your local Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. Find the nearest office at https://drive.ky.gov.
KENTUCKY KNOWLEDGE TEST
How many questions are on the Kentucky written test?
The Kentucky written knowledge test contains 30 questions regarding road rules and 10 questions about road signs.
What is the score required to pass the test?
You must successfully answer 80% of the questions.
What am I required to know to pass the written test?
You must be able to answer questions regarding driving rules, regulations, procedures and highway signs.
How can I prepare for the Kentucky knowledge test?
Study the KY Driver’s Manual and take our
DMV writtent test.
Can I take the Kentucky written test in a language other than English?
Yes, the KY written test is also available in Albanian, Arabic, Bosnian, Cambodian, Chinese, Croatian, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Vietnamese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Persian, Polish, Romanian, Russian and Somali.
I failed my knowledge test. What do I have to do?
You may return the next day that tests are given in your county.
LEARNER’S PERMIT
Can I sign the application for permit?
No, a parent/guardian must sign the application.
Do I have any restriction while I drive with my learner’s permit?
Yes. If you are younger than 18 years old, you may not drive between 12 pm and 6 am and you must drive with a licensed 21 years old or older. Furthermore, only 1 unrelated person under 21 years of age can ride in the car with you.
How long is my permit valid?
You permit is valid for 3 years and may be renewed. If you do not renew it, you will have to repeat the vision and written test.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road skills test?
You must hold your permit for a 30-days instruction period if you are 21 years old or older; you must hold your permit for 180 days if you are younger.
Do I have to practice driving before I take the driving test?
Yes, of course. Your parent/guardian must certify 60 hours practice driving (including 10 at night) before you take the road skills test.
What happens if I commit a moving violation during my instruction period?
Your 180 day waiting period will begin again from the date of the violation.
ROAD SKILLS TEST
When can I take my driving test?
After the 180-day permit period if you are under the age of 21; after the 30-days period if you are at least 21 years old.
How can I take my Kentucky driving test?
You have to check with your local examiner or Circuit Court Clerk regarding the schedule for your county.
Can I drive to the testing site?
No. A licensed driver, who is at least 21 years old, must accompany you.
Do I have to provide a car for the driving test?
Yes. The vehicle must be properly registered and insured.
Can I use a rented car for the road test?
Yes. Be sure that your name is listed as an operator on the rental contract.
What am I expected to know for my driving exam?
You must know how to operate headlight, horn, turn signals, brakes, emergency flashers and dimmer switch.
What will I have to do during my driving exam?
You will drive in traffic and encounter normal situations. You will be required to:
- stop, back and turn the car around;
- stop and start on a hill;
- do a parallel park;
- approach an intersection;
- use the clutch;
- speed and turn;
- use lanes;
- use right-of-way.
I failed my road skills test. What’s next?
You have to wait seven days before taking another test.
I HAVE A DRIVER LICENSE, BUT…
I have a valid Kentucky driver’s license but I changed address/name. Do I have to notify the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office?
Yes, you must obtain a duplicate licence within 10 days. Do not forget to provide an appropriate document stating the changes.
I lost my license. Can I obtain a duplicate?
Yes, you must apply at the local Circuit Clerk’s Office. Find the nearest office at https://drive.ky.gov.