Kentucky License Renewal: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your local Kentucky Circuit Court Clerk oversees the license renewal process. You must submit your current license, proof of identification (e.g., a valid driver’s license), and payment for the renewal fee. The Circuit Court Clerk then verifies all documents and makes sure you have met all requirements before issuing your renewed license. To find out more about the specific requirements for licensing in Kentucky.
The license expiration depends on your age group:
- 21 and older: 30 days after your birthday
- 21 and under 90 after your 21st birthday
You will have six months before and one year after expiration to renew. Any time beyond this renewal window can result in fines and penalties.
You can only renew your Kentucky driver’s license in person at a county clerk’s office.
The online and mail-in options are reserved for active military members and out-of-state residents. This guide shares the hassle-free way to complete a license renewal – let’s begin.
How to Renew Your KY Driver’s License
Renewing your license is incredibly quick and easy in the state of Kentucky.
The state has very few restrictions and requirements besides typical items like if your license is lost, stolen, damaged, or suspended. You can use your time at the clerk’s office to change and address other DMV-related needs on your to-do list.
Here is what you’ll do:
- Locate your nearest county clerk’s office
- Show your KY driver’s license
- Take a vision and/or written test if applicable:
- If your license has been expired for more than one year
- Pay the $20 class D operational license renewal fee
- Extra: $10 for a name or address change if needed
That’s it!
Kentucky has one of the easiest license renewal processes in the U.S. This process will soon change by 2020 with the introduction of REAL ID. Yet, all that’s required are a few extra personal documents identifying your citizenship and KY residency.
The mail-in renewal is about the same, with military and out-of-state drivers needing to contact the county clerk for an application and instructions to file.
Find a Kentucky License Office
Do you have questions about renewing your KY license or other inquiries you need answered about driving in Kentucky? Browse more KY DMV topics or use our KY DMV Directory to find an office near you.
Conclusion
Although the KY DMV process for a license renewal is one of the easiest in the country, it’s always good to double check your address and name on your license before proceeding. Don’t forget to also bring documents that show proof of identity, residency, and citizenship if you need a name or address change. Finally, don’t forget to check our KY DMV directory for more information on local offices near you. With all this in mind, you should be able to quickly and easily complete the KY DMV license renewal process. Good luck!
