How to Get a CDL Permit in Kentucky

Visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office first to complete self-certification, an NCIC background check ($3 fee), and to submit your Medical Examiner's Certificate.

Then schedule a separate appointment with Kentucky State Police to take the written and vision tests — the regional office itself doesn't administer these.

At KSP, pass the General Knowledge test, plus combination-vehicle and air-brake tests if applicable to the class and vehicle you're training on. A failed attempt only costs a 24-hour wait before retrying, with no limit on retakes inside your CLP's validity window.

Return to the regional office to pay the $11 CLP fee ($14 for REAL ID) and receive your permit. Since February 2022, federal rule also requires completing entry-level driver training (ELDT) through an authorized provider before applying for your first CDL.

Federal rule requires holding the CLP for at least 14 days before applying for the full CDL. Kentucky's 180-day CLP validity gives considerably more breathing room than states with a 60-day limit.

Complete your behind-the-wheel ELDT training within that window, since the CDL application can't proceed until that training is documented.

Schedule your skills test with KSP — a pre-trip inspection, then an on-road driving evaluation for the CDL class you applied for.

Passing gets you your Class A, B, or C license, with any endorsements reflecting the additional tests you passed along the way.