15-year-old Kentuckians can now earn their driver’s permit, thanks to House Bill 15, which was passed by Governor Andy Beshear in March. The change was implemented less than two weeks after the legislation was passed.
Beshear emphasized the importance of driving safely and cautiously after receiving a driver’s permit.
“You’ll be able to go in and take that written test and then get that permit. But remember, with your permit, you’ve got to have a driver with a license over 21 in the car. We want everybody to be careful,” said Beshear.
Applicants who want to make an appointment can do so with the Kentucky State Police. Motorists must have their birth certificate, Social Security card, and a School Compliance Verification form to take the written test. Prior to taking the test, drivers can study the official Kentucky driver’s manual at kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov.
The bill does not change the age requirement to obtain an intermediate driver’s license. Beshear said earning a driver’s permit at 15 gives teens more time to practice before taking their road test.
Though the change was executed quickly, it was no simple task. Beshear said the implementation of the bill called for the reformation of a system that has been in place for nearly half a century.
“There is a lot of work that goes into it. The system we use to ultimately issue those permits is about 40 years old. It means I took the test and registered under the same system that my kids will. It is taking us reprogramming that system,” said Beshear.
Beshear said the system was scheduled to be replaced in 2026.