A major change to the driver’s license process is advancing through the legislative process with strong support.
If signed into law, the change would allow drivers to handle some licensing matters more conveniently, though it would come with a fee of up to $25.
Kentucky Senate Bill 7, which has already passed the state Senate, would introduce the new process if enacted.
The proposal would allow driver’s license renewals to be handled by local officials who are not part of the Department of Motor Vehicles. However, first-time license issuances would still be required to take place at regional driver licensing offices operated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Under SB 7, local government offices such as sheriff’s offices or circuit clerks would be permitted to process renewals only. These locations could charge a fee of up to $25 per renewal, and the option would apply only in counties without a KTC regional office.
The state Senate approved the bill by a 34–1 vote and sent it to the House. Republican Sen. Lindsey Tichenor cast the lone dissenting vote, saying the proposal does not go far enough.
“It is not addressing the issues, and I feel we should be passing a stronger piece of legislation to start the work on,” Tichenor said during the vote.
The bill’s sponsor, first-term Republican Sen. Aaron Reed, defended the measure, acknowledging its imperfections.
“Some may say this bill is not perfect. Few things in public service ever are, but our duty is not to wait for perfection. Our duty is to act when a system is not working and our constituents are asking for help,” Reed said.
Some lawmakers remain opposed to the proposal, arguing the changes are unnecessary and could create new challenges.
“My concern about changing the system is everybody else is going to have to start from scratch now and go through possibly those six years of the learning curve,” Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear said.
Beshear added that wait times are already improving, noting that factors such as the Real ID deadline and the state’s driving age being lowered to 15 contributed to delays in 2025.
How to prepare for the DMV
Drivers can take several steps to make their DMV experience smoother:
Check your state’s DMV website to see if your task can be completed entirely online. Many services, such as vehicle registration renewals or address changes, can be handled digitally, while others can be started online and finished in person.
Schedule an appointment when possible. Although walk-ins are allowed, appointments can significantly reduce wait times.
Review the DMV website to make sure you have all required documents before arriving.
Arrive early, as many people visit during lunch breaks or days off.
Eat beforehand or bring a snack, since waits can sometimes take longer than expected.
Stay patient and positive, as the process is temporary.
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