Kentucky DMV: age, fees, test facts

Getting a license in Kentucky

Getting your first permit

In Kentucky, the minimum permit age is 15 years old (to take the written knowledge and vision tests and obtain a learner's permit). When you apply for a permit or license, bring: original birth certificate, Social Security card, one proof of Kentucky residency, School Compliance Verification Form, and parent/guardian signature/accompaniment if under 18. Use the Find an Office tool on drive.ky.gov to locate the nearest office; schedule an appointment online (new slots released weekly) or walk in during business hours.

Fees, retakes, and practice hours

No separate written/knowledge test fee is published on the official site; the instruction permit itself costs $15.00 ($18.00 for REAL ID). If you fail the knowledge test: if you fail the written test, you may return the next available day to retake it; no mandatory multi-day waiting period is specified. Before the road test, the state requires at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours at night, required before progressing to the intermediate license phase (GDLP, ages 15-17).

REAL ID, motorcycle, and CDL

REAL ID (black star) available at all Regional Driver Licensing Offices; federal enforcement began May 7, 2025. First-time applicants must apply in person. For a motorcycle license: min age 16 (must hold intermediate license, parent/guardian must sign); 18+ needs operator license/permit. Written+skills test, or RideSmartKY Basic Rider Course waives testing. For a commercial license (CDL): 18 for intrastate only (no hazmat/school bus); 21 for interstate. Requires 14-day CLP hold, knowledge+skills tests, DOT medical cert for over 10,000 lb interstate vehicles.

The Kentucky bank has 77 questions across 8 topics