How to Renew a Motorcycle License in Kentucky
Kentucky residents must have a valid motorcycle license in order to drive a motorbike in the state. The motorcycle license renewal process needs to be completed by anyone who plans to drive a motorized bike in Kentucky. A valid license ensures that the driver has been properly trained and informed on the safety and driving protocol of operating a motorbike. Drivers operating a motorcycle without the proper licensing may be subject to fines, fees, and incarceration.
In the state of Kentucky, motorcycle renewals can be done by mail or in person at an official Department of Motor Vehicles offices. The motorcycle license renewal process requires drivers to submit identification documents and complete certain eligibility requirements. These eligibility requirements ensure that the driver can safely operate a motorcycle. Drivers will also need to pay the renewal fee in order to have his or her motorcycle license reapproved.
When to Renew a Motorcycle License in Kentucky
Drivers in Kentucky need to renew motorcycle licenses prior to the expiration date listed on the government issued license. In Kentucky, a motorcycle license is valid for up to four years before the license expires. Drivers can renew motorcycle permits within six months of the expiration date printed on the motorcycle license. The process is the same as if a driver were renewing a regular driver’s license.
For drivers who are 21 years of age and older, the motorcycle license expires 31 days after the birth date. If a driver’s license has been expired for more than one year, the license can still be renewed. Although, due to the expiration, they may need to undergo a vision test and written test in order to renew the motorcycle license. This will depend on the amount of time that has passed since the license expired.
Eligibility for Motorcycle License Renewal in Kentucky
Drivers in Kentucky must meet certain eligibility requirements if he or she wishes to renew a motorcycle permit. These requirements are put in place to make sure that the driver can safely and legally operate a motorbike in the state of Kentucky. For example, the license must be within six months of the expiration date.
The license cannot be renewed before the expiration date listed on the motorcycle license. Additionally, drivers must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a motorcycle instruction permit and renew the permit to operate a motorcycle.
Required Documents
The state of Kentucky only lists a few documents required to renew a motorcycle license. Drivers will be required to surrender his or her expired motorcycle license when applying for a renewal. Drivers are required to present the following documents in order to successfully renew his or her motorcycle license:
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
- Car insurance paperwork
- Valid car registration or title
- Mail or bill with applicant’s legal name and address
Only two copies of each form of identification are needed. Some applicants may need to provide additional documentation. The Kentucky Division of Driver Licensing can help to answer additional questions about the documentation requirements specific to your situation.
Instances When You Cannot Renew Your Motorcycle License in Kentucky
There are certain situations that prevent a motorcycle driver from renewing a motorcycle M Class license in the state of Kentucky. The following instances will keep drivers from renewing his or her motorcycle license:
- If the license is not within six months of expiring.
- If the license has been expired for more than one year. (A vision test and written test will be required to renew if this is the case.)
- A suspended or revoked license.
- A lost, stolen, or damaged license.
Drivers must have his or her license reinstated or reissued in order to apply for a motorcycle license renewal.
How to Renew a Kentucky Motorcycle License Online
Drivers in the state of Kentucky may be wondering whether motorcycle licenses can be renewed online. Currently, drivers are not able to renew a motorcycle license online. This may change in the future. These processes are subject to change without notice.
How to Renew a Kentucky Motorcycle License by Mail
Motorists in the state of Kentucky are not eligible to renew a motorcycle license by mail. There is one exception. Military service members who are living in a different state or overseas may renew motorcycle licenses by mail in the state of Kentucky. Military members who are interested in renewing a motorcycle permit by mail must contact the Kentucky Division of Driver Licensing.
Drivers must meet certain qualifications in order to renew a drivers license and motorcycle license renewal by mail. A representative at the Division of Driver Licensing can help a military member determine his or her eligibility to begin the motorcycle license renewal process.
How to Renew a Kentucky Motorcycle License in Person
Generally speaking, motorists in Kentucky can only renew a motorcycle license by doing so in person. The only exception is for military members and is detailed above. To renew a KY motorcycle license in person, drivers must provide two types of identification listed above.
This process can be completed by showing up to any Kentucky Transportation Cabinet location within the state. Applicants must also pay the required fees in order to renew his or her motorcycle license.
Kentucky Motorcycle License Renewal Costs
There is a fee to renew a motorcycle license in the state of Kentucky. The fee to renew a Class M endorsement on a Kentucky driver’s license is $24. Of this amount, $4 is donated to the Kentucky Motorcycle Fund, which is used to fund the motorcycle safety education program in Kentucky. This also includes a $1 driver photo fee.
Kentucky Motorcycle License Renewal Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Motorcycles & Mopeds from KY.gov
- What's Changing? from KY.gov
- Application for Renewal or Duplicate License by Mail from KY.gov