Changes coming to Kentucky driver licensing: When 15-year-olds can get their permit

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Gov. Andy Beshear is working to ensure upcoming changes to the driver’s licensing system can happen as soon as possible, after signing House Bill 15 into law on Tuesday, March 25.

HB 15 lowers the age for an instructional permit from 16 to 15, placing Kentucky in line with 23 other states with similar regulations. Lawmakers argued that an extra year under a driver’s belt would better prepare learners to get their full driver’s license at the age of 16.

The change only allows young Kentucky drivers more practice time, and they won’t be able to drive without supervision until they’re 16 and pass a series of tests.

In a Team Kentucky update on Thursday, March 27, Beshear said the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is actively working to reprogram the state’s licensing system.

He believes 15-year-olds could begin scheduling permit test appointments on April 2, 2025.

Until then, Beshear said parents and teens can do the following:

• Sign up for email updates at drive.ky.gov
• Collect all necessary documents, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and a school compliance verification form
• Begin studying for the written permit test

The official Kentucky driver’s manual can be found on the Kentucky State Police website.

“We understand the excitement and more information will be available next week about when you may expect to schedule an appointment and apply for credentials,” Kentucky State Police said.

Information on how to schedule a permit and driver’s test appointment can be found here.

“To all the 15-year-olds out there, drive safe,” Beshear said.