Replace ID and documents in Kentucky

How to replace a birth certificate, Social Security card, Kentucky ID, license or permit, REAL ID, and Medicaid card: what each one needs, what it costs, and which to get first.

NOLO is not a government office. Rules and fees change, so check the official page or call before you go. Each fact below links to the official page we read. Checked Oct. 7, 2026.

Start here: which document first

This order is NOLO's reading of what each office asks for. It is not an official rule.

Why the order matters: Kentucky asks for a Social Security card for a first-time ID.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Social Security Card (required for first-time credential or out-of-state transfers)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Path 1: You had a Kentucky license, permit or ID before

Start here if the card was lost, stolen or damaged and your name has not changed.

1. Replace your Kentucky card
A replacement costs $15. If everything on your card is still correct, you do not need to bring documents.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “The fee for a replacement is $15.00.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A $15.00 replacement fee applies.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “If all information listed on your current credential is up to date” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you do not need to bring any documents to renew or request a replacement” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Some people can ask for a replacement online through myDrive. You can also go in person to any Driver Licensing Regional Office.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “may request a replacement online through the myDrive portal” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Visit a Regional Office to request a replacement” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “ID cards can be obtained at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
You get a temporary credential while the new card comes in the mail.
Source
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Customers receive a temporary credential while waiting for the permanent card to arrive by mail.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
2. Then replace your Social Security card, if you need it
Social Security card replacements are free.
Source
- USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “Social Security card replacements are free.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Check Social Security's page for current requirements and the documents it accepts. Social Security's document list

Path 2: You never had a Kentucky ID or license

Start here if this is your first Kentucky card, or your old one can't be replaced.

1. Get your birth certificate (if you were born in Kentucky)
A certified copy costs $10 from the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.
Source
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “$10 US per certificate (non-refundable search fee)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
If you are homeless, Kentucky law says there is no fee. A homeless services provider fills out and signs the VS-41 affidavit and mails it with the application.
Sources
- Kentucky General Assembly: “birth to a homeless individual as defined in KRS 198A.700, or a homeless” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “The affidavit will not be considered complete unless completed and signed by the” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Director or designee of a governmental or nonprofit agency.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Mail the affidavit, printed application, and copy of the requester's” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
The person who asks for it for you sends a copy of their own ID.
Source
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Provide a copy of your (the requester's) ID, which is either: an agency-issued” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
2. Get your Social Security card
It is free. Depending on your situation, you may be able to ask for it online or in person.
Sources
- USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “Social Security card replacements are free.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “you may be able to request a replacement online or in person.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Check Social Security's page for current requirements and the documents it accepts. Social Security's document list
If you are homeless or leaving prison, ask a case worker or reentry staff to help you gather documents.
3. Get your Kentucky ID card
Bring a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of where you live.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Bring a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Social Security Card (required for first-time credential or out-of-state transfers)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
No fixed address? A Homeless ID card is free. A signed letter from a homeless shelter, health care facility, or social service agency can be your proof of where you live. It has to say you are getting services and live in Kentucky.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Homeless ID cards and voter ID cards may be issued at no cost” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you may use a signed letter as proof of residency” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “a signed letter from a homeless shelter, health care facility, or social service agency” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “The letter must confirm that you are currently receiving services” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Otherwise a standard ID costs $11.50 for 4 years or $23.00 for 8 years.
Source
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A standard identification card costs $11.50 for four years or $23.00 for eight years.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Apply in person at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “ID cards must be applied for in person at a Driver Licensing Regional Office.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “ID cards can be obtained at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
4. REAL ID, only if you need it
A standard Kentucky card can't be used to board a U.S. flight; a REAL ID or a valid passport can. A standard card still works to vote, get federal benefits (including at a Social Security office), and get health care.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A standard credential cannot be used to board a U.S. flight” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “valid, unexpired passports and passport cards” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Vote or register to vote.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Apply for or receive federal benefits (includes Social Security office);” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Access health or life-preserving services (includes hospitals and health clinics)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Bring 1 proof of identity, 1 document with your full Social Security number, and 2 proofs of Kentucky address. Apply in person.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Bring 1 original or certified document (no photocopies).” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Bring 1 document showing your full Social Security number.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Bring 2 documents (Dated within the last year, when applicable).” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “can only be requested in person at a Driver Licensing Regional Office” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
A REAL ID card costs $14.00 for 4 years or $28.00 for 8 years.
Source
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “$14.00 for 4-Year” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Medicaid card: call DCBS at 855-306-8959, visit a local DCBS office, or ask for a new card in kynect benefits. If you have a managed care plan (MCO), contact the plan for that card.

Sources

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “visit your local DCBS office or call 855-306-8959” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “are able to view and download their MAID card through” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “contact their MCO provider to request a new MCO card.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Each document

Kentucky birth certificate

Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics (Cabinet for Health and Family Services)

The office has birth records for people born in Kentucky from 1911 to today.

Source

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Office of Vital Statistics: “has on file birth records of persons born in Kentucky from 1911 to present day” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Have ready: full name at birth, date of birth, county of birth, and mother's full maiden name.

Sources

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Office of Vital Statistics: “Full name at birth of person born in Kentucky” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Office of Vital Statistics: “The mother's full maiden name” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Order by mail (check or money order to the Kentucky State Treasurer, no cash), in person at 275 East Main Street in Frankfort, or online or by phone through VitalChek.

Sources

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Mail a check or money order (no cash) payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “The Office of Vital Statistics is located at 275 East Main Street in Frankfort” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Purchase a certificate online , by phone or by fax.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “contact VitalChek by phone at (800) 241-8322” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

There is also a drop box at the visitor entrance at 275 E. Main St.

Source

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “installed a drop box at the visitor entrance at 275 E. Main St., Frankfort” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Mail orders can take up to 30 working days.

Source

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Please allow up to 30 working days for processing” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Picking up in person takes a valid photo ID.

Sources

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “A valid photo ID is required for pickup.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “To obtain the order, they must also show a valid form of photo identification.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

The state warns that some other websites charge extra fees for Kentucky records.

Source

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Several third-party vendors charge excessive fees to assist with obtaining Kentucky vital records.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Office of Vital Statistics phone: (502) 564-4212.

Source

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Statistics telephone number is (502) 564-4212.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Kentucky ID card

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Driver Licensing

Replacing an ID card costs $15.00.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A $15.00 replacement fee applies.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

REAL ID upgrades are not available online.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “REAL ID upgrades are not available online.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

To use myDrive online you need a Letter ID code, sent by mail; it usually takes 5 to 10 business days.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Request a Letter ID by mail when creating your myDrive account” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Delivery typically takes 5–10 business days” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

The permanent card usually comes by mail in 10 to 15 business days.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Your permanent credential typically arrives by mail within 10–15 business days.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

If your name changed, update it with Social Security before you apply for a new card.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “update your name with the Social Security Administration before applying for a new ID card” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “You must update your name with the Social Security Administration” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

A Child ID card costs $6.00 for 4 years.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A Child ID card costs $6.00 for four years.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Driver's license or permit

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Driver Licensing

Replacing a lost, stolen or damaged license or permit costs $15.00.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “The fee for a replacement is $15.00.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

A name change must be done in person at a Regional Office, with legal papers, and costs $15.00.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Name changes must be completed in person at a Regional Office. A $15.00 fee applies.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Name changes must be completed in person and require supporting legal documentation.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

If you move, update the address on your card within 10 days. It costs $15.00.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you must update the address on your Kentucky credential within 10 days” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “The fee to update the address on a credential is $15.00.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

REAL ID

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), Driver Licensing

Federal REAL ID enforcement started May 7, 2025.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “federal REAL ID enforcement in effect as of May 7, 2025” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “standard Kentucky licenses, permits, and personal IDs are no longer accepted for domestic air travel” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Every first-time REAL ID request is in person.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “All first-time REAL ID requests must be made in person.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you must bring all required documents in person to any Driver Licensing Regional office” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

If your card has more than six months left, you can pay $15 to upgrade it to a REAL ID.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you can pay $15 to upgrade to a REAL ID version of your card” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

You leave the office with a 30-day temporary document.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A 30-day temporary document will be issued on-site” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

A hospital-issued birth certificate does not count as proof of identity.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Hospital-issued certificate invalid.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Forwarded mail does not count as proof of where you live.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Forwarded mail cannot be used as proof of residency.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

A U.S. passport or passport card can be used in place of a birth certificate.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “as proof of identity and legal presence in place of a birth certificate” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Medicaid card

Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services / DCBS

If your card is lost, damaged or stolen, visit your local DCBS office or call 855-306-8959.

Source

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “visit your local DCBS office or call 855-306-8959” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

You can view and download your card in kynect benefits.

Sources

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “are able to view and download their MAID card through” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “Household dependents can only view and download their own MAID card.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

When you ask for a new card in kynect, you choose your mailing address or a DCBS office. Choose a DCBS office only if you have no other place to get mail, and pick it up there.

Sources

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “Select either "My Mailing Address" or "A DCBS Office"” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “Only choose a DCBS office if you have no other place to receive” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “mail. The Medicaid Card must be picked up from a DCBS office if DCBS Office” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

You can ask for a new card once every 14 calendar days.

Source

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “A Medicaid identification card can only be requested once every” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

If you are in a managed care plan (MCO), contact the plan for a new MCO card.

Sources

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “contact their MCO provider to request a new MCO card.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “you will receive a card from the MCO you selected” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Your Medicaid ID number is not your Social Security number.

Source

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “It is not your Social Security number.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Costs and fee waivers

Document	Cost	Official fee waiver
Kentucky birth certificate	$10 Source KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “$10 US per certificate (non-refundable search fee)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)	No fee for a homeless individual, with the VS-41 affidavit signed by a homeless services provider. Sources Kentucky General Assembly: “birth to a homeless individual as defined in KRS 198A.700, or a homeless” (checked Oct. 7, 2026) KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “The affidavit will not be considered complete unless completed and signed by the” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Social Security card	Free Source USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “Social Security card replacements are free.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)	—
Kentucky ID card	$11.50 for 4 years or $23.00 for 8 years Source Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A standard identification card costs $11.50 for four years or $23.00 for eight years.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)	Homeless ID and Voter ID cards: no cost for people who meet the rules. Sources Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Homeless ID cards and voter ID cards may be issued at no cost” (checked Oct. 7, 2026) Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Voter ID cards are available at no cost at any Regional Office.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
REAL ID card	$14.00 for 4 years or $28.00 for 8 years Source Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “$14.00 for 4-Year” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)	—
Replacement license, permit or ID	$15.00 Sources Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “The fee for a replacement is $15.00.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026) Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “A $15.00 replacement fee applies.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)	—

Where to go

Birth certificate: Office of Vital Statistics, 275 East Main Street, Frankfort, or by mail or VitalChek.

Sources

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “The Office of Vital Statistics is located at 275 East Main Street in Frankfort” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Mail a check or money order (no cash) payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Purchase a certificate online , by phone or by fax.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Social Security card: online or in person, or call 1-800-772-1213.

Sources

USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “you may be able to request a replacement online or in person.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): “1-800-772-1213” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Medicaid card: local DCBS office, 855-306-8959, or kynect benefits.

Sources

KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “visit your local DCBS office or call 855-306-8959” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “are able to view and download their MAID card through” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Kentucky ID, license, permit or REAL ID

You can use any Driver Licensing Regional Office.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “ID cards can be obtained at any Driver Licensing Regional Office.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you must bring all required documents in person to any Driver Licensing Regional office” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Appointments are recommended and walk-ins are welcome.

Sources

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8 am to 4 pm” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “appointments are recommended, and walk-ins are welcome at all locations.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Offices take card, cash, personal checks, certified checks and money orders.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “All offices accept credit/debit, cash, personal checks, certified checks, and money orders.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Call 502-564-1257 to check walk-in hours before you go.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Call 502-564-1257” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

A myDrive pre-application is optional but can help you bring the right documents.

Source

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “Completing a pre-application through myDrive can help ensure you bring the correct documents” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Your county

All 35 Driver Licensing Regional Offices

Bardstown Regional Office
201 GUTHRIE DR, STE C, BARDSTOWN, KY 40004-2410Eastern time
Bellevue Regional Office
103 LANDMARK DR, BELLEVUE, KY 41073-1393Eastern time
Bowling Green Regional Office
360 E 8TH AVE, STE 111, BOWLING GREEN, KY 42101-2135Office entrance located on 7th St.Central time
Burlington Regional Office
6159 1ST FINANCIAL DR, STE 200, BURLINGTON, KY 41005-7892Eastern time
Catlettsburg Regional Office
2900 LOUISA ST, STE 2, CATLETTSBURG, KY 41129-1609Eastern time
Columbia Regional Office
363 OFFICE PARK DR, STE 200, COLUMBIA, KY 42728-1270Central time
Covington Regional Office
1840 SIMON KENTON WAY, COVINGTON, KY 41011-3679Eastern time
Danville Regional Office
1714 PERRYVILLE RD, STE 118, DANVILLE, KY 40422-1496Eastern time
Elizabethtown Regional Office
916 N MULBERRY ST, ELIZABETHTOWN, KY 42701-3628Eastern time
Frankfort Regional Office
200 MERO ST, FRANKFORT, KY 40601-1920Eastern time
Henderson Regional Office
374 BORAX DR, HENDERSON, KY 42420-5049Central time
Hopkinsville Regional Office
700B Hammond Plz, HOPKINSVILLE, KY 42240-2007Central time
Independence Regional Office
1655 DELAWARE CROSSING, INDEPENDENCE, KY 41051-7561Eastern time
Jackson Regional Office
1127 MAIN ST, JACKSON, KY 41339-1135Eastern time
Leitchfield Regional Office
1903 W ELIZABETHTOWN RD, LEITCHFIELD, KY 42754-8100Central time
Lexington – Leestown Regional Office
141 LEESTOWN CENTER WAY, STE 125, LEXINGTON, KY 40511-2640Eastern time
Lexington – Spindletop Regional Office
2624 RESEARCH PARK DR, LEXINGTON, KY 40511-8507Eastern time
London Regional Office
845A S MAIN ST, LONDON, KY 40741-1996Eastern time
Louisville – Bowman Field Regional Office
3501 ROGER E SCHUPP ST, LOUISVILLE, KY 40205-3193Eastern time
Louisville – Dixie Highway Regional Office
6202 WILLISMORE DR, LOUISVILLE, KY 40272-4402Eastern time
Louisville – Hurstbourne Regional Office
9112 LEESGATE RD, LOUISVILLE, KY 40222-5004Eastern time
Louisville – L&N Building Regional Office
908 W BROADWAY, 11th FLOOR, LOUISVILLE KY 40203-2029Eastern time
Louisville – Nia Center Regional Office
2900 W BROADWAY, STE 100, LOUISVILLE, KY 40211-1279Eastern time
Madisonville Regional Office
56 FEDERAL ST, MADISONVILLE, KY 42431-2043Central time
Manchester Regional Office
25 MARCUM HILL RD, MANCHESTER, KY 40962-7380Eastern time
Mayfield Regional Office
355 CHARLES DR, MAYFIELD, KY 42066-4900Central time
Maysville Regional Office
1918 OLD MAIN ST, MAYSVILLE, KY 41056-8925Eastern time
Morehead Regional Office
126 BRADLEY AVE, MOREHEAD, KY 40351-1522Eastern time
Owensboro Regional Office
2620 HIGHWAY 81, OWENSBORO, KY 42301-8232Central time
Paducah Regional Office
2855 JACKSON ST, STE 7, PADUCAH, KY 42003-7602Central time
Pikeville Regional Office
126 TRIVETTE DR, STE 201, PIKEVILLE, KY 41501-1275Eastern time
Pineville Regional Office
101 COURTHOUSE SQUARE, PINEVILLE, KY 40977-1635office located on second floorEastern time
Prestonsburg Regional Office
3140 S LAKE DR, STE 5, PRESTONSBURG, KY 41653-1411Eastern time
Richmond Regional Office
830 EASTERN BYP, STE A12, RICHMOND, KY 40475-2512office entrance inside mallEastern time
Somerset Regional Office
650 N MAIN ST, STE 240, SOMERSET, KY 42501-1432Eastern time

Office list from KYTC Find an Office, checked Oct. 7, 2026.

Help you can get before you have ID

This list only includes rules we could point to on an official page. Ask the office what you can bring.

Medicaid in kynect: if the online identity check doesn't work, a kynector, agent or DCBS staff member can send a manual ID-proofing request. The form's list includes a birth certificate, Social Security card, and voter registration card.
Sources
- KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “Please allow 2-3 business days for the process to be completed.” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: “Native American Tribal Document” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Homeless ID: a signed letter from a shelter, health care facility or social service agency can take the place of an address.
Sources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “you may use a signed letter as proof of residency” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “a signed letter from a homeless shelter, health care facility, or social service agency” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
Birth certificate: a person or agency that is allowed to request it can ask on your behalf, with no fee if you are homeless.
Sources
- KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: “Any entity or person lawfully entitled to request a certified copy of a birth record” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky General Assembly: “birth to a homeless individual as defined in KRS 198A.700, or a homeless” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Leaving prison or jail

In April 2023, the state said the Department of Corrections was giving people an ID when they left state prisons and several local jails, through a partnership with the Transportation Cabinet.
Sources
- Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): “FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 27, 2023)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): “providing inmates at 14 prisons and several local jails with identification upon release” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): “program is a partnership between the DOC, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC)” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
The same 2023 announcement said Corrections also works to get the person's Social Security card and birth certificate, and that reentry staff work on Medicaid enrollment at release.
Sources
- Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): “social security card and birth certificate to ensure they are released with all the documentation” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): “This includes Medicaid enrollment at the time of release” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
The Division of Reentry Services makes individualized reentry plans and connects people to resources, starting on the first day of incarceration or supervision.
Sources
- Kentucky Department of Corrections: “creating individualized reentry plans, empowering individuals with resources, support and programming” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
- Kentucky Department of Corrections: “beginning with the first day of incarceration or supervision” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)
For a standard driver's license only, KYTC accepts a certified U.S. birth certificate plus a release letter from the Federal Bureau of Prisons in Kentucky, the Kentucky Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole, or U.S. Probation.
Source
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): “VALID PROOF ONLY FOR STANDARD LICENSE” (checked Oct. 7, 2026)

Before release, ask your case worker or reentry staff which documents are being requested for you, and keep your release papers.

Phone numbers

Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
DCBS (Medicaid card): 855-306-8959
KYTC Driver Licensing: 502-564-1257
Office of Vital Statistics: (502) 564-4212

Sources

Official pages we read for this guide. Each fact above opens its own quote.

KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: Certificate Purchase Options. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Pages/purchase.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: VS-37 Application for a Certified Copy of Birth Certificate (PDF, Rev 12.20.2023). www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Forms/VS37BirthApp.pdf (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Office of Vital Statistics: Birth Certificates. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Pages/birth-certificates.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: The Office of Vital Statistics. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Pages/default.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky General Assembly: KRS 213.141 Fee for certified copies of certificates or records. apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=54967 (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Office of Vital Statistics: VS-41 Affidavit of Homeless Status for Fee Exempt Certified Record of Birth (PDF). www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/dehp/vsb/Forms/VS41AffidavitFeeExemptHomeless.pdf (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): Identification Cards. drive.ky.gov/Drivers/Pages/ID-Cards.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky General Assembly: KRS 186.4122 Personal identification card application. apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=56603 (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): Update or Replace a Driver's License or Permit. drive.ky.gov/Drivers/Pages/Update-Replace.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): REAL ID: What Do I Need to Apply. drive.ky.gov/RealID/Pages/What-You-Need.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): Valid Proof Documents (PDF, dated 11/21/2025). drive.ky.gov/Drivers/Documents/ValidProofDocuments.pdf (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): REAL ID: Frequently Asked Questions. drive.ky.gov/RealID/Pages/FAQs.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): REAL ID. drive.ky.gov/RealID/Pages/default.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (drive.ky.gov): Find an Office. drive.ky.gov/Pages/Find-an-Office.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: Medicaid identification card. www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/member/Pages/idcard.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: kynect benefits quick reference: Viewing, downloading and requesting a Medicaid ID Card (PDF). www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/kynect/kynectbenefitsQRGMedicaidIDCardFinal.pdf (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky.gov (Department of Corrections press release, April 27, 2023): Department of Corrections identification program press release. www.kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=Corrections&prId=374 (read Oct. 7, 2026)
Kentucky Department of Corrections: Division of Reentry Services. corrections.ky.gov/Reentry/Pages/default.aspx (read Oct. 7, 2026)
KY CHFS Department for Medicaid Services: kynect benefits quick reference: Manual ID Proofing and Next Steps (PDF). www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/kynect/kbQRGManualIDProofingandNextSteps.pdf (read Oct. 7, 2026)
USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): How to get, replace, or correct a Social Security card. www.usa.gov/social-security-card (read Oct. 7, 2026)
USAGov (U.S. General Services Administration): Social Security Administration (SSA) agency page. www.usa.gov/agencies/social-security-administration (read Oct. 7, 2026)

Replace ID and documents in Kentucky: step order

Facts checked Oct. 7, 2026 on official pages. This order is NOLO's reading of what each office asks for. It is not an official rule.

Path 1: You had a Kentucky license, permit or ID before

☐ Replace your Kentucky cardA replacement costs $15. If everything on your card is still correct, you do not need to bring documents.Some people can ask for a replacement online through myDrive. You can also go in person to any Driver Licensing Regional Office.
☐ Then replace your Social Security card, if you need itSocial Security card replacements are free.

Path 2: You never had a Kentucky ID or license

☐ Get your birth certificate (if you were born in Kentucky)A certified copy costs $10 from the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.If you are homeless, Kentucky law says there is no fee. A homeless services provider fills out and signs the VS-41 affidavit and mails it with the application.
☐ Get your Social Security cardIt is free. Depending on your situation, you may be able to ask for it online or in person.
☐ Get your Kentucky ID cardBring a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of where you live.No fixed address? A Homeless ID card is free. A signed letter from a homeless shelter, health care facility, or social service agency can be your proof of where you live. It has to say you are getting services and live in Kentucky.
☐ REAL ID, only if you need itA standard Kentucky card can't be used to board a U.S. flight; a REAL ID or a valid passport can. A standard card still works to vote, get federal benefits (including at a Social Security office), and get health care.Bring 1 proof of identity, 1 document with your full Social Security number, and 2 proofs of Kentucky address. Apply in person.

☐ Medicaid card: call DCBS at 855-306-8959, visit a local DCBS office, or ask for a new card in kynect benefits. If you have a managed care plan (MCO), contact the plan for that card.

Phone numbers

Social Security 1-800-772-1213 · DCBS (Medicaid card) 855-306-8959 · KYTC Driver Licensing 502-564-1257 · Office of Vital Statistics (502) 564-4212