FRANKFORT, Ky. — Wait times have been longer than normal at some DMVs and county clerk’s offices, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is looking to help drivers avoid the wait. 

The KYTC said new remote renewal-based licensing alternatives will provide Kentuckians opportunities to “Skip the Line” and renew online or through mail.

This comes after Kentucky implemented changes to driving laws, including lowering the driving permit age to 15-years-old and a new vision screening requirement for license renewals, in addition to the REAL ID Act going into effect May 7. 

“We’re working to do everything we can to provide alternative options for Kentuckians and reduce wait times at our Driver Licensing Regional Offices,” said Gov. Andy Beshear, D-Ky. “We encourage everyone to make a plan and skip the line if they can.”

The KYTC said it has been adding staff, implementing new line-management technology and adjusting procedures to make it easier for customers to return to remote renewal options and avoid unnecessary waits. Renewal options include:

• For those who can, visit an eye specialist, ask for a vision screening form and upload it to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov.
• Visit a licensing office, get a vision screening, receive a passcode, then return home to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov.
• Visit a licensing office, get the vision screening, fill out a renewal form on site without waiting and receive a temporary license via email.
• Renew by mail: Print and fill out the mail-in form at Drive.ky.gov and attach a completed vision form from an eye specialist.

“We understand the frustration of lines and want everyone to know what’s available to save them the time and hassle of unnecessary waits,” said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Since 2020, when lawmakers shifted licensing from circuit court clerks to our cabinet, our professional licensing staff have set up 34 regional offices and are committed to caring for their customers, issuing over 1.1 million permits, driver licenses, CDLs, Real IDs, motorcycle licenses and ID cards each year.” 

Some customers may still need to visit licensing offices if they need to upgrade or apply for a REAL ID; change the address, marital status or photo on their license; need a commercial driver’s license or are a new Kentucky driver and need a permit or license after passing a Kentucky State Police-administered test, the KYTC said. 

The KYTC added it reminds customers that while there is less than a week until the May 7 REAL ID enforcement, it is not a deadline but a federal enforcement date. Customers can still get one any time after May 7 and have other options to fly or visit military bases, including a U.S. passport, passport card, global entry card, military ID, Veteran Health Identification and others. A full list can be found at TSA.gov. 

More information on licensing, documentation requirements for REAL ID and a list of 34 regional offices anyone may visit by appointment or as a walk-in customer can be found at drive.ky.gov.