How to Get a Driver's License in Kentucky [2025]

Types of Driver's Licenses in Kentucky

For each license type there's a corresponding type of instruction permit

Class D

It allows you to operate common cars, station wagons, pickup trucks, utility vehicles, and most panel trucks and a trailer, with weights not greater than 26,000 pounds, designed to carry less than 16 passengers including the driver. Read the KY KSP Handbook or take a free KY driving practice test.

Class A/B/C (Commercial)

Class A is for any combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. Class B is for any straight truck with two or more axles and a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more and pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less, and a single vehicle that transports 16 or more passengers including the driver with a GVWR of 26,001 or more. Class C is for any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds transporting hazardous materials or 16 or more passengers. Read the KY CDL Manual or take a free CDL practice test.

Class M/E

Class M is for riding motorcycles, while class E is required for riding mopeds. Read the KY Motorcycle Manual or take a free KY motorcycle practice test.

Pro tip: Venturing through Kentucky's bluegrass regions and metropolitan areas calls for sharp driving acumen. Our step-by-step guides for manual driving and parallel parking will serve you well. Master the techniques for parking in reverse and three-point turns. It's essential to have your mirrors positioned correctly for visibility. Our Online Driving Simulator offers excellent practice, and for international drivers, make sure to understand Kentucky's international driver's license rules.

How to Apply for Your Learner's Permit

All new drivers in Kentucky are required to get the permit before they are eligible for a license. The permit allows you to drive supervised at all times with a licensed driver 21 years of age or older in the front seat. You mustn’t drive between 12:00 A.M. and 6:00 A.M., unless there is a good cause for driving, such as emergencies or school and work related activities. You mustn’t transport more than one unrelated person under 20 years of age. It is also the first step of the Graduated Driver Licensing program for drivers at the age of 16 and 17.

1Apply in person

You should apply at the Circuit Court Clerk's office in your Kentucky county of residence. Note that all non-U.S. citizens (excluding Permanent Residents and Resident Aliens) must first apply at a Division of Driver Licensing Regional Field Office.

2Bring documentation required

Social Security card
An original or certified copy of your birth certificate
Proof of residence (e.g., a utility bill, mortgage documents, postmarked letter with your name and current address, etc.)
Permanent Resident card or I-551 with photo issued by USCIS. (for non-citizens)

No copies or laminated documents are acceptable.

If you are a non-US citizen, check here for other documents you are required to bring depending upon your status in the US.

3Come with your parent or guardian if under age 18

Your parent or guardian must sign your application accepting financial responsibility. Make sure she/he carries a valid driver's license. A legal guardian must also have a certified copy of guardianship papers. Foster children must also bring the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Custody Verification Letter. Your parent/guardian may withdraw their permission at any time.

4Provide no pass/no drive form if under age 18

It’s the School Compliance Verification Form that you can get from your public or private school. If you don’t study at school, get the form from your school district of residence.

5Pay the permit fee of $12

6Get tested by the kentucky state police license examiner

After the Clerk has prepared the application, the Kentucky State Police License Examiner will administer the tests.

7Pass a written test

The test will contain questions about rules of the road, signs and procedures. Take free practice tests online before you go. If you fail your test you may return the next day or later.

8Pass a vision test

Minimum visual acuity of 20/40 is required, otherwise, you will be referred to a vision specialist.

8Return to the circuit court clerk’s office

You will be issued a permit or a distinctive "under 21" permit if you are younger than 21.

Applicants under the age of 21 must hold the driving permit for a minimum of 180 days.

Applicants older than 21 must hold the permit for at least 30 days.

If you are under 18 years of age, your next step is applying for the intermediate driver's license.

If you are over 18 years of age, your next step is applying for the full driver's license.

How to Get a Driver’s License in Kentucky [2025]

How Does It Work?

Get a Learner's Permit

Get an Intermediate License

Get a Full (Adult) License