You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Kentucky driver's license online through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website, but only if your license is not expired by more than five years

Kentucky's online replacement service is the fastest way to get a new license without visiting a driver's licensing office in person. You order a replacement through the state's online portal, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and the new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The process takes about 10 minutes if you have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current Kentucky driver's license number ready.

The online option works only for standard replacements — a lost, stolen, or damaged license that you want to renew with the same information. You cannot use it to change your name, address, or other details on the license itself. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew it in person at a driver's licensing office instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Kentucky's online replacement service works only if your current license expired within the last five years and you need an exact duplicate with no changes to your information.
  • The replacement fee is $20 for a standard driver's license, and you pay by credit or debit card during the online order.
  • Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you do not receive a temporary license or paper receipt to use while you wait.
  • If you need to change your address, name, or other details, or if your license expired more than five years ago, you must visit a driver's licensing office in person.
  • You need your current Kentucky driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to complete the online order.

Who can order a replacement license online

You are may be able to access to order online if your Kentucky driver's license is currently valid or expired by no more than five years. The license must be in your possession or you must know the license number. If your license was suspended, revoked, or cancelled by the state, you cannot order a replacement online — you must visit a driver's licensing office and go through the reinstatement process first.

The online replacement is for exact duplicates only. If you want to change your address, legal name, gender marker, or any other information on the license, you must explore in person. The same applies if you want to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license or add a commercial endorsement.

Step-by-step process for ordering online

Go to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet's online services portal at dlicense.ky.gov. Select "Replace License" from the menu. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. The system will verify your identity against the state's records.

Once verified, you will see a summary of the information that will appear on your new license. Review it carefully — this is your chance to catch any errors before the license is printed. If something is wrong, stop and visit a driver's licensing office instead; the online system cannot make corrections.

Enter your mailing address and confirm it is current. This is where your new license will be sent. Select your payment method — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover — and pay the $20 replacement fee. You will receive a confirmation number by email. Keep this number in case you need to check on your order status later.

What to expect after you order

Your new license is printed and mailed within 7 to 10 business days of your order. You do not receive a temporary license, a paper receipt, or any document to show while you wait. If you need to prove your identity or driving status before the new license arrives, you can print your confirmation email, though not all businesses or law enforcement will accept it.

Track your order using the confirmation number on the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website. If your license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Cabinet's customer service line at 502-564-6800 to report it. Do not order a second replacement while the first is in transit — this can delay both orders.

When you must visit an office instead

Visit a driver's licensing office in person if your license expired more than five years ago, if it was suspended or revoked, or if you need to change any information on it. You also must go in person to add a REAL ID designation, upgrade to a commercial license, or add endorsements like motorcycle or hazmat.

If you lost your license but do not know the license number, you can call the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet at 502-564-6800 to look it up before you order online. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready when you call.

Fees and payment

A replacement driver's license costs $20 in Kentucky. This fee covers the cost of printing and mailing your new license. You pay by credit or debit card during the online order — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted. There is no additional shipping fee.

If you order online and then decide you need to make changes, you cannot cancel and get a refund. You must wait for the license to arrive, then order a second replacement if needed. This is why reviewing the information on the summary screen before you pay is important.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the online replacement if my license was suspended?

No. If your license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled, you cannot order a replacement online. You must visit a driver's licensing office and complete the reinstatement process first. The online system will reject your order if the state has any holds on your license.

What if I need my new license before 10 business days?

Kentucky does not offer expedited mail for online replacements. If you need a license urgently, visit a driver's licensing office in person — they can issue a license the same day. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and a photo ID.

Can I change my address when I order a replacement online?

No. The online replacement sends your new license to the address currently on file. If you need to change your address, you must visit a driver's licensing office in person and explore for a renewal or replacement there. You can update your address and order the new license in the same visit.

What if my new license arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet at 502-564-6800 with your confirmation number. If the license is damaged, they will send a replacement at no additional cost. If there is an error in the information printed on it, you will need to visit an office in person to correct it and order a new license.

Do I need a REAL ID to order a replacement online?

No. The online replacement service issues a standard driver's license. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license, you must visit a driver's licensing office in person and bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Kentucky residency.