9 Steps to a Smooth Kentucky License Plate Switch

Getting a New License Plate in Kentucky After an Interstate Move: What You Need to Know

Relocating to a new state is an exciting adventure—but it also comes with a checklist of important to-dos, especially when it comes to updating your vehicle registration. If you’ve recently moved to Kentucky, one of the first things you’ll need to take care of is getting a Kentucky license plate for your vehicle. While the process is straightforward, you’ll want to make sure you gather the right documents and follow the steps required by the state to avoid delays or penalties.

Below is a complete guide on how to get a new license plate after moving to the Bluegrass State.

1. Establish Residency in Kentucky

Before you can register your vehicle and get Kentucky plates, you need to establish residency. You’re considered a Kentucky resident if:

• • You’ve moved into a permanent home in the state.
  • You’ve accepted employment in Kentucky.
  • You have a child enrolled in a Kentucky school.
  • You’ve lived in Kentucky for more than 30 days.

Once you’re officially a resident, you have 15 days to title and register your vehicle in the state.

2. Transfer Your Out-of-State Driver’s License

Before registering your car, you’ll need to get a Kentucky driver’s license. This is done through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Driver Licensing Regional Offices (not the local County Clerk’s Office).

Here’s what you’ll need:

• • Your current (out-of-state) driver’s license
  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or valid passport)
  • Proof of Social Security number (SSN card, W-2, or pay stub)
  • Two proofs of Kentucky residency (utility bill, lease/mortgage statement, bank statement)
  • Payment for the licensing fee

You may be required to take a vision test, but typically not a written or road test if your out-of-state license is valid and unexpired.

✅ Kentucky Tom Pro Tip: Delays in Getting a Real ID Driver’s License

On May 7, 2025 the US Transportation Safety Department (TSA) started enforcing the use of Real ID for boarding any commercial aircraft.  Because of this situation, there is a long wait to obtain a new driver’s license or transfer an out-of-state driver’s license.

Don’t waste your time walking in to a Kentucky Transportation Regional Office–make an appointment.  The wait time for an appointment could be months.

Note:  If you have a US passport, you can use it instead of a Real ID to board a US commercial aircraft.  But, still make an appointment to either obtain your Kentucky Real ID driver’s license or a regular driver’s license.

Once you’ve obtained your Kentucky license, you can move on to registering your vehicle and getting new plates.

3. Title and Register Your Vehicle in Kentucky

Vehicle titling and registration are handled by your local County Clerk’s office, not the state DMV.

You’ll need the following documents:

• • Your out-of-state title – If there is a lien on your vehicle and the lienholder holds the title, you’ll need their name, address, and loan account number so the Clerk’s office can request the title.

✅ Kentucky Tom Pro Tip: Can’t find your title?

Most states allow you to order a replacement title through the mail.  But, a state’s process time and mailing the title could take several months.

• • Your Kentucky driver’s license
  • A completed Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title/Registration (Form TC 96-182) – You can fill this out at the Clerk’s office or download it beforehand from drive.ky.gov.
  • Proof of Kentucky auto insurance
  • A vehicle inspection form – Before you register, you’ll need a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection. This is a simple inspection to verify the VIN and can be done at most County Clerk’s offices or by local law enforcement for a small fee.
  • Payment for fees and taxes (see below)

4. Pay Fees and Taxes

Fees vary slightly by county, but generally include:

• • Title Fee: $9
  • Usage Tax: 6% of the vehicle’s trade-in or book value
  • Registration Fee: $21 annually for standard passenger vehicles
  • Lien Filing Fee (if applicable): $22
  • VIN Inspection Fee: $5

You can pay via cash, check, or credit/debit card, but call ahead or check the county clerk’s website to confirm accepted forms of payment.

5. Receive Your Kentucky License Plates

After all documentation is submitted and fees are paid, you’ll be issued:

• • A standard Kentucky license plate
  • A registration sticker for your windshield
  • A registration receipt to keep in your vehicle

Plates are usually issued immediately, and you’ll walk out of the office ready to hit the road.

Kentucky also offers specialty and personalized plates for additional fees, such as military, university, nature-themed, or custom-tag options.

6. Surrender Your Old Plates (if required by former state)

Kentucky does not require you to surrender your out-of-state plates, but your previous state might. Some states require returning plates to avoid penalties, fees, or renewal notices. Contact your old state’s DMV to determine the process for surrendering or deactivating your registration.

7. Update Your Insurance

Your insurance must meet Kentucky’s minimum coverage requirements, which include:

• • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage
  • $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP)

Contact your insurance provider to update your policy to Kentucky’s standards. If your provider doesn’t operate in Kentucky, you’ll need to switch to one that does before registering your vehicle.

8. For Leased or Financed Vehicles

If your vehicle is leased or financed, check with your lienholder or leasing company before transferring the title. They may have specific requirements or documents they need you to complete. In some cases, the Clerk’s office will send the title request directly to your lienholder.

9. Keep Your Documents Organized

It’s a good idea to keep copies of all the documents you used in the registration process, including:

• • Title application
  • Inspection form
  • Insurance paperwork
  • Registration receipt

Store these in your glove compartment or a personal file for easy access in case of questions, renewals, or inspections.

For Your Consideration

Getting your new Kentucky license plate is an important legal requirement when moving from out of state. By taking care of your driver’s license transfer, gathering the proper documents, and visiting your local County Clerk’s office, you can complete the process smoothly and avoid fines or delays. Each county may have slight differences in how they process applications, so it’s a smart move to check your specific county’s website or call ahead before your visit.

Once you’re done, you’ll be fully compliant with Kentucky law—and one step closer to feeling at home in the Bluegrass State.

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