How to Renew Your Kentucky Driver's License

Kentucky driver's license renewal basics

Kentucky allows you to renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a driver's licensing office. Which method you can use depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people under 65 with a valid or recently expired license can renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

Your Kentucky license is valid for eight years if you are under 65, or four years if you are 65 or older. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your expiration date. The state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website takes about 10 minutes and costs $27.50 for a standard eight-year license if you are under 65.
You can renew by mail if your license is not expired or expired less than two years, but the process takes two to four weeks.
In-person renewal at a driver's licensing office is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, or if you need a new photo or to change your address.
You will need your current or expired Kentucky license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
If you renew online or by mail, your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and you should receive it within 10 to 15 business days.

Online renewal through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are under 65 and your license is not expired or expired less than two years. You go to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website, enter your license number and Social Security number, review your information, and pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card. The entire process takes about 10 minutes.

After you complete the online renewal, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address currently on file with the state. You should receive it within 10 to 15 business days. You can continue to drive using your expired license until your new one arrives, as long as your license was valid when you started the renewal.

Online renewal costs $27.50 for a standard eight-year license if you are under 65. If you are 65 or older, the cost is $13.75 for a four-year license. These fees are for a regular license; commercial driver's licenses and other endorsements have different fees.

Renewing by mail if your license is recent

Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired or expired less than two years. You will need to wait for your renewal notice from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, which arrives about 60 days before your expiration date. The notice includes a prepaid envelope and instructions for what to send back.

You send your current or expired license, the completed renewal form from the notice, and payment to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash; use a check or money order. The state will process your renewal and mail your new license to the address on file. This process typically takes two to four weeks from the time the state receives your materials.

If you do not receive a renewal notice 60 days before your expiration date, contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to request one. You can also call their customer service line to confirm your mailing address is correct.

In-person renewal at a driver's licensing office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photo, or if you want to change your address or other information. You can also choose to renew in person even if you are not required to. Visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website to find the office nearest you and check their hours.

Bring your current or expired Kentucky license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at most offices.

Processing time at an office varies by location and how busy the office is. Some offices have walk-in service, while others require you to schedule an appointment online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website. Call ahead or check the website to see what your local office offers.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must go to a driver's licensing office in person. You will need to bring the same documents as for a regular in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address.

You will also need to pass a vision test at the office. You may be asked to take a written test or a driving test depending on how long your license has been expired and the policies of the specific office. Call the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet or visit their website to find out what your local office requires before you go.

Fees and payment methods

The cost of renewal depends on your age and the type of license. A standard eight-year license for someone under 65 costs $27.50. A four-year license for someone 65 or older costs $13.75. Commercial driver's licenses, motorcycle endorsements, and other special endorsements have different fees.

Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal at a driver's licensing office accepts cash, check, and card at most locations, though you should call ahead to confirm what your specific office takes.

If you renew online or by mail, the fee is charged or cashed when the state processes your renewal, not when you submit it. If you renew in person, you pay at the time of your visit.

What to do if you move or change your name

If you have moved to a new address in Kentucky, you can update your address online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website without renewing your license. You can also update your address when you renew. If you update your address online between renewals, your new license will still be mailed to your current address on file when you do renew.

If you have changed your name, you must renew in person. Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your new license will show your new name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Kentucky license if I live out of state?

Yes, you can renew online or by mail as long as your license is not expired or expired less than two years. You do not have to live in Kentucky to hold a Kentucky license. Your new license will be mailed to whatever address you provide, whether that is in Kentucky or another state.

What if I lost my license and need to renew?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must go to a driver's licensing office in person to report it lost and get a replacement. Bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of your address. A replacement license costs the same as a renewal.

How long can I drive on an expired Kentucky license?

You cannot legally drive on an expired license. However, if you have started an online or mail renewal before your license expired, you can continue to drive while you wait for your new license to arrive in the mail. Once your license expires, you must stop driving until your new license arrives.

Do I need a Real ID compliant license to fly domestically?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to fly domestically in the United States. Kentucky offers Real ID compliant licenses. When you renew, you can request a Real ID license by providing proof of your Social Security number and two forms of proof of address. There is no extra fee for a Real ID license.

What if my renewal is rejected online?

If your online renewal is rejected, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website will tell you why. Common reasons include a mismatch between the information you entered and what is on file, or that your license has been expired for too long. If you cannot figure out why it was rejected, call the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet customer service line or visit a driver's licensing office in person.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.