How To Do a Kentucky DMV Change of Address

If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Kentucky then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Kentucky DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.

It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Kentucky requires that you file your change of address paperwork within just 30 days of establishing residency in the state (and 10 days if you’re a current resident) there really isn’t much time to waste.

Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Kentucky DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to an Kentucky Circuit Court Clerk’s office to get started.

If You’re Moving to Kentucky from Another State

Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Kentucky from another state?

How do you get one?

To get a Kentucky driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Kentucky Circuit Court Clerk’s office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Kentucky DMV change of address online or over the phone.

Per the rules in most states, expect that Kentucky driver’s licenses for new residents to the state are only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the KY DMV or an outside court.

You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the Circuit Court Clerk:

    • Your current out-of-state driver’s license (must be either current or have expired less than a year ago)
    • Proof of identity (one document)
    • Proof of social security (one document)
    • Proof of Kentucky residency (one document)

    Learn more about accepted documents here.

    Note that if your name on your proof of identity does not match the name on your current driver’s license then you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.

    Is there a fee?

    Yes. The fee for a new driver’s license in Kentucky is $21.50 for a four-year license or $43 for an eight-year license. If you choose to get a REAL I.D., the cost is $24 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license. Visit the fees page for more information.

    Does a Kentucky DMV change of address require a driving test?

    No, provided you have a current and valid out-of-state driver’s license.

    How long do you have to get a Kentucky driver’s license or ID card?

    Kentucky requires that you get your DMV change of address handled within 30 days of establishing residency in that state. So how do you know if you’re officially a resident? Head to a KY Circuit Court Clerk’s office if you plan to:

      • Live in Kentucky for at least 7 months out of the year
      • Register to vote in Kentucky
      • Work in Kentucky
      • Run a business out of Kentucky
      • Send your children to school in Kentucky

      How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?

      Kentucky requires that you register your vehicle in the state within 15 days of establishing residency.

      How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Kentucky?

      Before you can register your vehicle you will need to transfer your title. Once your vehicle is titled in Kentucky, head to your local Circuit Court Clerk’s office to register it.

      Make sure to bring along the following required documents:

        • Photo I.D.
        • Kentucky certification of registration (you’ll get this when you title your vehicle in the state)
        • Proof of Kentucky insurance (must be original and not a copy, and must have an effective date with 45 days)

        A sheriff’s inspection will be required for out-of-state vehicles.

        If you are an active-duty member of the military and are listed on the title of your vehicle, you will not be required to obtain in-state insurance.

        What is the registration fee?

        The fees for registering a standard non-commercial vehicle in Kentucky is $25 per year, plus $9 for the title. Additional fees may apply as well, which you can learn about here.

        If You’re Moving Within Kentucky

        Kentucky requires that you update your driver’s license within just 10 days with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it).

        To update your address, you’ll have to head to your local Circuit Court Clerk’s office in person, since Kentucky DMV change of address services are not available online. Make sure to bring along proof of residency when you go in, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement.

        Will Kentucky issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?

        Yes, a duplicate license will be provided.

        How much does a Kentucky change of address cost?

        The fee for a duplicate license with your new address is $12.

        What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?

        You will need to provide the same change of address paperwork noted above to update your vehicle’s registration—so basically just your proof of residency document(s). You will also have to go to a Kentucky Circuit Court Clerk’s office in person, since you cannot update your vehicle registration with the state by mail or online.

        How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?

        You must update your vehicle’s registration within 15 days of your move.

        If You’re Moving From Kentucky to Another State

        Do you need to notify the state of Kentucky if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?

        No. When you receive a driver’s license in your new state of residency Kentucky will automatically cancel your KY driver’s license.

        Do you need to notify the state of Kentucky if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?

        Do you need to return your Kentucky license plates?

        No, you can keep them.

        Have any questions?

        If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Kentucky, contact the Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles at (859) 635-5240 or by visiting their contact page. You are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.

        Need to hire movers for your move to, from, or within the state of Kentucky?

        We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Kentucky move will cost.