
Permit Practice Tests (360 questions)
-
Questions 1-40
Permit Test 1
Start your journey by learning the fundamentals of driving in Kentucky. Multiple choice questions designed to test your knowledge of the rules of the road.
-
Questions 41-80
Permit Test 2
Introduction to common road signs, lane markings, speed limits, traffic lights, sharing the road, child restraint systems, hand signals, and seatbelt usage.
-
Questions 81-120
Permit Test 3
Questions designed to test your knowledge of driving in poor weather conditions, phone usage, parking rules, lane changes, road signs, traffic signals, and blind spots.
-
Questions 121-160
Permit Test 4
Features safe driving questions with an emphasis on defensive driving, distracted driving, emergency situations, railroad crossings, accidents, and road signs.
-
Questions 161-210
Road Signs Test
This practice test will test your knowledge of various road signs and their meanings. Learn how to identify road signs by shape and color.
-
40 random questions
KSP Test Simulator
Simulate test day with this practice test. Random questions generated from a huge database. No explanations. New questions with every attempt.
-
Questions 211-360
Mega Test
Boost your knowledge with this massive practice test. Features hundreds of questions from every road rules category. Perfect for the day before the exam.
-
Kentucky KSP Handbook 2025
Get the latest (2025) official KY KSP Handbook.
Kentucky Permit Test FAQ
Basic Eligibility Requirements
How old do I have to be to get my permit in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you must be at least 16 years old to apply for an instruction permit. This age requirement applies to all first-time permit applicants regardless of prior driving experience.
What documents do I need to bring when I apply for my permit?
To apply for a permit in Kentucky, you must bring:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Kentucky residency (showing you live in Kentucky)
- Social Security card or proof of your Social Security number
- School Compliance Verification Form (if you’re under 18)
- Payment for the non-refundable application fee
If you’re applying for a REAL ID compliant credential, additional documentation may be required. Check the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website for current accepted documents.
If I'm under 18, do my parents need to be involved in the permit application process?
Yes. If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian must:
- Sign your permit application
- Accept financial responsibility for you
- Accompany you to the Driver Licensing Regional Office when you apply
How do I apply for a permit in Kentucky?
The application process in Kentucky is as follows:
- Gather the required documents (identity, residency, etc.)
- Visit a Driver Licensing Regional Office
- Complete the permit application
- Provide your School Compliance Verification Form (if under 18)
- Pass a vision screening
- Pass your written knowledge test
- Pay the non-refundable application fee
Can I apply online?
No, Kentucky does not offer online applications for first-time instruction permits. You must visit a Kentucky Driver Licensing Regional Office in person to complete the application process, submit your documents, take your vision screening, and complete your written knowledge test.
How much does it cost to get a permit?
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet charges a non-refundable application fee for an instruction permit. This fee covers the cost of processing your application, the written test, and issuing your permit. Visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website for current fee information.
What tests do I have to pass to get my permit?
To get your permit in Kentucky, you must pass:
- A vision screening to ensure you can see well enough to drive safely
- A written knowledge test with multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices
How many questions are on the Kentucky permit test?
The Kentucky permit written knowledge test contains 40 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly (80%) to pass.
What's on the Kentucky permit test?
The Kentucky permit test covers:
- Traffic laws and regulations
- Road signs and signals
- Right-of-way rules
- Safe driving practices
- Driving in hazardous conditions
- Penalties for violating traffic laws
- Alcohol and drug effects on driving
How can I prepare for the permit test?
The best ways to prepare for your Kentucky permit test:
- Study the Kentucky Driver’s Manual thoroughly, available on our website at Kentucky Driver’s Manual
- Take our free practice tests that simulate the actual permit test
- Review the test materials multiple times to ensure you understand the key concepts
- Pay special attention to road signs, traffic signals, and right-of-way rules
What if I fail the permit test?
If you fail the Kentucky permit test:
- You can retake the test after waiting at least one day
- Each attempt will require a testing fee
- There is no limit to the number of retakes
- Study the Kentucky Driver’s Manual carefully before attempting the test again
What can I do with a permit in Kentucky?
With a Kentucky instruction permit, you can:
- Practice driving with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a valid license for at least one year
- This supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat
- Gain experience to prepare for your road skills test
What restrictions come with a permit in Kentucky?
When driving with a permit in Kentucky you:
- Must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front passenger seat at all times
- Cannot use any electronic communication devices while driving, even in hands-free mode, if you’re under 18
- Must ensure all occupants wear seat belts
- Must adhere to Kentucky’s Graduated Driver Licensing Program if you’re under 18
How long do I have to practice with my permit before I get a license?
In Kentucky, the requirements depend on your age:
If you are under 18:
- You must hold your instruction permit for at least 180 days (6 months) before taking the road skills test
- You must complete at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving
- Your parent or guardian must certify these practice hours on a driving log
If you are 18 or older:
- There is no minimum holding period for your instruction permit
- Practice enough to develop safe driving skills before taking your road skills test
Do I need to take a driver education course to get my permit?
Kentucky has different driver education requirements based on your age:
If you are under 18:
- Driver education is not required to get an instruction permit
- However, driver education may be required before obtaining your intermediate or full license
If you are 18 or older:
- No, driver education is not required, although it’s still recommended to help you become a safer driver
What driver education do I need to complete before I get my license?
In Kentucky, before you get your driver’s license, the requirements depend on your age:
If you are under 18:
- You must either complete a state-approved driver education course, or complete an additional 4 hours of supervised driving practice (for a total of 64 hours)
- In either case, you need to document at least 60 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) with someone at least 21 years old who has a valid driver’s license
If you are 18 or older:
- No formal driver education is required, though it is beneficial
How do I find an approved driver education program?
You can find Kentucky-approved driver education programs by:
- Checking your high school’s offerings
- Visiting the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website for a list of approved programs
- Contacting your local Driver Licensing Regional Office for recommendations
What can I expect during the road test?
The Kentucky road skills test checks:
- If you can safely operate the vehicle
- If you follow traffic laws and signals
- Basic maneuvers such as turns, lane changes, and parking
- Your awareness of other road users
- Good decision making in various traffic situations
Before you start, the examiner will check that your vehicle meets safety requirements, including:
- Proper registration and insurance
- Working lights, signals, and horn
- Good tire condition and functioning brakes
- Safety belts for all occupants
How do I schedule my road test?
You can schedule your road skills test in Kentucky by:
- Visiting the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website
- Using their online appointment system
- Calling your local Driver Licensing Regional Office
What do I need to bring to my road test?
On the day of your road skills test in Kentucky, bring:
- Your valid instruction permit
- A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old with a valid license
- A properly registered and insured vehicle for your test
- Proof of insurance and vehicle registration
- Your completed driving log showing your practice hours (if under 18)
What are the most common reasons people fail the road test?
Common reasons for failing the Kentucky road skills test include:
- Not checking blind spots before changing lanes
- Rolling through stop signs instead of coming to a complete stop
- Driving too fast or too slow for conditions
- Improper lane positioning or lane changes
- Not yielding to pedestrians or other vehicles
- Lack of steering control
- Poor awareness of surroundings
- Inability to properly park the vehicle
How do I convert my learner's permit to a driver's license?
To convert your instruction permit to a driver’s license in Kentucky:
If you are under 18:
- Hold your instruction permit for at least 180 days (6 months)
- Complete 60 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night)
- Complete a driver education course or an additional 4 hours of practice
- Pass the road skills test
- Pay the required fees
If you are 18 or older:
- Practice with your permit until you’re ready
- Schedule and pass the road skills test
- Pay the required fees
What are the graduated licensing stages in Kentucky?
Kentucky’s graduated licensing program for drivers under 18 has these stages:
- Instruction Permit: Must be at least 16 years old and practice with a licensed adult (21 or older). Valid until you’re eligible for the next level.
- Intermediate License: Must be at least 16½ years old, have held your permit for at least 180 days, completed the required practice hours, and passed the road skills test.
- Full License: Intermediate restrictions end when you turn 18.
- Adults 18 and older can go directly from a permit to a full license after passing the road skills test.
What am I restricted from doing as a new driver after getting my license?
As a new driver under 18 in Kentucky with an intermediate license, you will have these restrictions:
- No driving between midnight and 6 a.m., except for driving to/from work, school-sanctioned, religious, or emergency activities
- No more than one passenger under 20 who is not a family member, unless accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older
- Zero tolerance for any alcohol or drug violations
- No cell phone use, including hands-free, except in emergencies
These restrictions apply until you turn 18.
I have a permit from another state. Is it valid in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not recognize out-of-state permits for driving within Kentucky. If you are moving to Kentucky with an out-of-state permit:
- You will need to apply for a Kentucky permit
- If you’re under 18, you may receive credit for the time you’ve held your out-of-state permit toward the 180-day holding period if documented properly
What accommodations are available for permit applicants with disabilities?
Kentucky offers the following accommodations for applicants with disabilities:
- Audio versions of the driver manual
- Oral knowledge tests
- American Sign Language interpreters
- Extended testing time
- The ability to use special equipment in your own vehicle for the driving test
- Contact your Driver Licensing Regional Office before your appointment to request accommodations
Can I get my permit if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a Kentucky instruction permit by providing:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Kentucky residency
- Proof of legal presence in the United States
- Other required documents as specified by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
Visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website for more information on documentation requirements for non-citizens.
Where can I download the Kentucky Driver's Manual?
You can download a copy of the Kentucky Driver’s Manual here. Physical copies are also available at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.
Are there free practice tests available?
Yes! We offer free Kentucky-specific practice tests that mimic the actual permit test. Our practice tests help you study the material and get comfortable with the test format before your exam.
Who can I contact if I have more questions about the permit process?
For more information about the Kentucky permit process:
- Visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet website at drive.ky.gov
- Call the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet at (502) 564-1257 during business hours
- Visit your local Driver Licensing Regional Office
What if I lose my permit?
If you lose your Kentucky instruction permit:
- You can request a replacement at a Driver Licensing Regional Office
- You will need to provide proof of your identity
- You will need to pay a replacement fee
How do I cancel a minor's permit or license?
A parent or guardian who signed the application for a minor can cancel their teen’s permit or license by:
- Submitting a notarized written request to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
- Visiting a Driver Licensing Regional Office and completing a Parent/Guardian Consent Withdrawal form
Once canceled, the minor cannot apply for another permit or license without new parental consent until they turn 18.