Kentucky Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
A license to carry a concealed firearm issued to a nonresident by another state shall be honored if such state provides reciprocal privilege.
Out-of-state driver's license issued to a person under 16 years of age is not valid on Kentucky streets and highways.
Kentucky joined the Interstate Driver's License Compact in 1996 according to the state. However, several court cases (Schuetz v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania & James Howard Smith v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania) have suggested that they never passed the necessary legislation to enforce the Compact. Unfortunately, these court cases are now several years old and may no longer be relevant.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 35 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates/ Parkways | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or total property damage exceeding $500 must be reported by the owner or operator of the vehicle (if the accident is not investigated by the authorities) within 10 days to the Justice Cabinet, Frankfort, KY 40601.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/10,000.
No-fault insurance is required.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Kentucky has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 6-month driver's license revocation.
- Firearms (rifles, shotguns, and handguns) may be carried loaded and in plain view; loaded handguns may be carried in the vehicle glove compartment.
- Studded tires are permitted.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Kentucky has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all occupants.
- Kentucky has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 40 inches tall, requiring the use of approved car safety seats.
- Motorcycle riders 21 years of age and older are exempt from the helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 502/564-4890
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 800/222-5555