Kentucky Driver's License at a Glance
Learner's Permit Age
16
Minimum age
Full License Age
18
Minimum age
License Fee
$43
First license
Renewal Fee
$43
Per renewal
License Valid For
8 yrs
Online Renewal
Available
Supervised Hours
60 hrs
Required for permit (incl. 10 hrs night)
REAL ID
Available
Undocumented Eligible
No
Official DMV: https://drive.ky.gov
How to Get Your Kentucky Driver's License
- 1
Get your learner's permit
In Kentucky, you must be at least 16 years old. Pass a written knowledge test at your local DMV (fee: $15).
- Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Two proofs of state residency
- 2
Complete supervised driving
Log at least 60 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. A licensed adult (typically 21+) must accompany you at all times.
- 3
Wait until you are 16½
After holding your permit for the required practice period, you become eligible for a provisional (restricted) license at 16½ and a full license at 18.
- 4
Pass the road skills test
Schedule and pass a behind-the-wheel driving test at your DMV. Bring your vehicle (or use a DMV vehicle if available), proof of insurance, and your permit.
- 5
Pay and receive your license
Pay the license fee ($43). Your license is typically valid for 8 years before renewal is required.
Documents Checklist (REAL ID Standard)
Proof of Identity
Bring 1 item from this list
Proof of Social Security Number
Bring 1 item from this list
Two Proofs of State Residency
Bring 2 items from this list
Compare with Nearby States
REAL ID status: Kentucky issues REAL ID-compliant licenses. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID is required to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities.
Do I need to retake the driving test when I move to a new state?
Most states require a written knowledge test for out-of-state transfers but waive the road test if your license is current and you have a clean record. A few states waive both tests. Check your new state's DMV website for specifics, as policies vary.
What is a REAL ID and why does it matter?
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID that meets federal security standards established by the REAL ID Act. As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant license (or a passport) to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities. All 50 states and DC now issue REAL ID-compliant licenses.
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in the US?
As of 2025, 19 states plus the District of Columbia allow residents to obtain a driver's license regardless of immigration status. These states issue standard licenses (not REAL ID-compliant) that are valid for driving but cannot be used for federal purposes. States include CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IL, MA, MD, MN, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OR, RI, UT, VA, VT, and WA, plus DC.
Can I renew my driver's license online?
Most states now offer online renewal for eligible drivers, but requirements vary. Common restrictions include needing an in-person visit every other cycle for a new photo, passing a vision test, or having a clean record. Check your state's DMV site to confirm eligibility.
What documents do I need to get my first driver's license?
Standard requirements include proof of identity (US passport or birth certificate), proof of Social Security Number (Social Security card or W-2), and two proofs of state residency (utility bill, bank statement, or lease). REAL ID applications require original documents — photocopies are not accepted.
More Kentucky local info:
Data verified: 2026-05-12. Policy details change — always confirm with your state DMV before applying.
More about Kentucky
Explore other state-specific topics to get the full picture of living in Kentucky.