From Global Roads to Bluegrass Highways: How to Get a Kentucky Driver's License with Foreign Credentials

Welcome to Kentucky! As you settle into your new home in the Bluegrass State, one of the most practical steps you'll take is obtaining a Kentucky driver's license. This process can seem confusing if you're coming from another country. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step path for exchanging your foreign license and getting you legally on the road.

The First Question: Does Kentucky Have Reciprocity with My Country?

This is the most important starting point. The Commonwealth of Kentucky has driver's license reciprocity agreements with four specific countries. If you hold a valid, unexpired license from one of these nations, your process will be much simpler.

The countries with Kentucky driver's license reciprocity are:

• France
• Germany
• Republic of China (Taiwan)
• Republic of Korea (South Korea)

What Reciprocity Means for You

If your license is from one of these four countries, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will waive the written (knowledge) test and the road (skills) test. You will still be required to pass the vision screening and provide all the necessary documentation to prove your identity and residency.

The Process for Drivers from Reciprocal Countries (France, Germany, S. Korea, Taiwan)

If you are eligible for reciprocity, your path is more direct:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need your valid foreign license, proof of identity, proof of lawful U.S. status, and two proofs of Kentucky residency (more on this below).
2. Get a Translation (if needed): While most licenses from these countries have English text, if any part is not in English, you should secure a certified translation.
3. Visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office: You must visit one of the official KYTC regional offices. You cannot complete this process at a Circuit Court Clerk's office.
4. Surrender Your License: You will be required to surrender your foreign driver's license.
5. Pass Vision Test & Pay Fees: Pass the simple vision screening, have your photo taken, and pay the required fee. You will then be issued your Kentucky driver's license.

The Full Process for Drivers from All Other Countries

If your driver's license is not from one of the four reciprocal nations, you must complete the full licensing process like any new driver in Kentucky. This includes passing the vision, written, and road tests.

Step 1: Gather Your Required Documentation

This is the most critical step. Without the correct original or certified documents, you cannot begin the process.

• Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence: This is typically your unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and an I-94 arrival/departure record. Other documents like a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document are also acceptable.
• Proof of Social Security Number or Ineligibility: You will need your Social Security card. If you are not eligible for a Social Security number, you must present a letter from the Social Security Administration stating your ineligibility.
• Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must present your current, unexpired license.
• Certified Translation of Your License: If your foreign license is not in English, you must have it translated. The translation must be certified by a government entity (like a consulate) or a KYTC-approved translator.
• Two Proofs of Kentucky Residency: You must provide two documents proving you live in Kentucky. They must show your name and current address and be no more than 60 days old. Examples include:
  • Utility bill (electric, water, gas, etc.)
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Bank statement
  • Postmarked mail from a government agency

Step 2: Study the Kentucky Driver Manual

The written knowledge test is based entirely on the Kentucky Driver Manual. You must study this document thoroughly. It covers all of Kentucky's traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can download a free copy from the official KYTC website.

Step 3: Pass the Written and Vision Tests

Take all your documents to a KYTC Driver Licensing Regional Office. At your appointment, you will:

1. Present Your Documents: An official will verify all your paperwork.
2. Pass the Vision Test: A quick screening to check your eyesight.
3. Take the Written Knowledge Test: This is a multiple-choice test administered on a computer.

Once you pass the vision and written tests, you will be issued a Kentucky Learner's Permit.

Step 4: Schedule and Pass the Road Test

With your learner's permit, you can now schedule your final test.

• Scheduling: The road (skills) test is administered by the Kentucky State Police (KSP). You must call a KSP testing location to schedule this appointment separately.
• The Test: You must provide a properly registered and insured vehicle for the test. An examiner will ride with you and give you instructions to perform various maneuvers on the road, including the famous Kentucky requirements: parallel parking and a three-point turn.

Step 5: Receive Your Kentucky Driver's License

After successfully passing your road test, the KSP will stamp your permit. You will then take this stamped permit back to a KYTC Driver Licensing Regional Office to be issued your official Kentucky driver's license.

Navigating this process takes careful preparation, especially with documentation. By following these steps, you can successfully transition from an international driver to a fully licensed Kentucky resident.