Last verified: 23/09/2026
Kentucky at a glance
This guide explains Driver's License requirements in Kentucky, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.
Eligibility & Age Rules
<p>Drivers under 18 must complete permit, intermediate and full stages. Permit: 180 days and 60 supervised hours including 10 at night. Intermediate: 180 days plus an approved 4-hour graduated licensing course.</p>
Costs, timing and validity
Instruction permit testing begins at 15. Drivers under 18 follow Kentucky graduated licensing; a full unrestricted license can be issued after the intermediate stage and age 17 requirements.
$21.50 for 4 years or $43 for 8 years standard; REAL ID $24 for 4 years or $48 for 8 years. Permit $15 standard or $18 REAL ID.
$21.50 for 4 years or $43 for 8 years standard; REAL ID $24 or $48.
Standard and REAL ID licenses can be issued for 4 or 8 years when eligible.
Documents and information to prepare
Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.
Proof of identity, Social Security number and Kentucky residency. Under 18 also need school compliance verification and parent/legal guardian signature. REAL ID requires additional residency documentation.
How to apply
Schedule Kentucky State Police testing, complete myDrive pre-application, bring documents, pass required tests and visit a Regional Office.
Testing, Training & Restrictions
<p>Permit applicants take vision and written tests; intermediate applicants take a road skills test. Kentucky State Police administers the tests; written-test passing score is 80%.</p>
Renewal and ongoing requirements
<p>Eligible drivers can renew online through myDrive, by mail or in person. Vision screening is required. REAL ID upgrades must be done in person.</p>
Processing time
Permanent credentials generally arrive by mail within 10β15 business days; a temporary document is issued first.