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Getting a REAL ID in Kentucky

The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Division of Driver Licensing page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.

  1. Bring one original or certified proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or U.S. passport.

    Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. Bring one document showing your full Social Security number.

    Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. Bring two proofs of Kentucky residency dated within the last year.

    Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. Bring proof of any name change, updated with Social Security first.

    Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Apply in person at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.

    Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.

Related facts

REAL ID
Optional; standard cards without the black star can't be used for domestic flights or certain federal facilities since May 7, 2025. Apply in person.Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
REAL ID fee
$24.00 for 4 years or $48.00 for 8 years (license).Source: drive.ky.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the Kentucky guide

Learner's permitSteps and official links →First licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →Moving to KentuckySteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official Kentucky links

Agency home pagedrive.ky.gov ↗Appointmentskentuckystatepolice.ky.gov ↗Driver handbookkentuckystatepolice.ky.gov ↗Driver handbook (PDF)wp.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov ↗Online renewaldrive.ky.gov ↗REAL IDdrive.ky.gov ↗Permit and first licensedrive.ky.gov ↗New residentsdrive.ky.gov ↗Replace a licensedrive.ky.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.