FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — A bill moving through the Kentucky General Assembly could change how some driver’s license and ID services are handled in counties without a regional licensing office.

Under Senate Bill 7, local officials such as county clerks, circuit clerks, sheriffs, or judge-executives could enter agreements with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to issue renewal and duplicate driver’s licenses and personal identification cards in their counties 

The bill would not allow local offices to issue first-time licenses, commercial driver’s licenses, or Real ID documents. Only renewals and duplicate copies would be permitted. The Transportation Cabinet would be responsible for providing and installing the necessary equipment.

Residents using local offices for these services would pay a $25 convenience fee in addition to existing state fees, with that fee retained by the local office. Counties could also enter interlocal agreements to share equipment and staff if needed.

Supporters say the change could reduce long wait times at regional licensing offices and make services more accessible in rural areas. The Transportation Cabinet would be required to report annually on the program’s impact.

The bill moved out of a Senate committee Wednesday morning and awaits a floor vote in the Senate. If signed into law, it would take effect July 1, 2027. 

To view the Senate Bill 7 in its entirety, you can click here