To get a REAL ID in Kentucky, you need to apply in person at a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Driver Licensing Regional Office. Here is what you need:
Required Documents
- Proof of Identity (one original or certified document, no photocopies)
- Certified birth certificate
- Valid U.S. passport
- U.S. citizenship or naturalization certificate
- Permanent resident card
- (Hospital-issued birth certificates are not accepted)
- Proof of Social Security Number (one original or certified document)
- Social Security card (no photocopies)
- Current W-2 or 1099 tax form (no handwritten SSNs)
- SSNAP replacement printout
- Proof of Kentucky Residency (two documents)
- Kentucky driver's license with current address
- Utility bill (less than 1 year old)
- Paycheck stub or statement (not handwritten)
- Other official mail showing your Kentucky address
- If your name or gender has changed , bring additional documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order to prove the change.
Process and Locations
- Visit any KYTC Driver Licensing Regional Office statewide; appointments are recommended but walk-ins are accepted.
- You will receive a temporary credential valid for 30 days while your REAL ID is processed and mailed to you.
- The cost is $24 for a 4-year REAL ID or $48 for an 8-year REAL ID.
- Offices are open Monday through Friday, typically 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Additional Notes
- A driver’s license alone does not qualify as proof of identity.
- You can prepare by taking the online IDocument Guide quiz at drive.ky.gov to get a customized list of documents you need to bring.
- REAL ID will be required starting May 7, 2025, for boarding commercial flights and entering federal buildings.
- Other federally accepted IDs like passports or military IDs can also be used for these purposes if you do not get a REAL ID.
For more details and to schedule an appointment, visit the official Kentucky REAL ID page at drive.ky.gov/RealID
