Louisville, KY Driver's License Renewal: Your Local Circuit Clerk Guide!

Louisville, KY Driver's License Renewal: Your Local Circuit Clerk Guide!

"Still planning to go to the Circuit Court Clerk to renew your license? Stop!"

If you live in Louisville, the process for renewing your driver's license has completely changed. The Jefferson County Office of the Circuit Court Clerk no longer handles driver's licenses. Instead, you must now visit a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Regional Office.

This guide clears up the confusion, explains how to renew online to avoid the drive, and lists the new regional locations where you can get your Real ID.

Table of Contents

  • 1. The Big Change: Circuit Clerks vs. Regional Offices
  • 2. 3 Ways to Renew: Online, Mail, or In-Person
  • 3. Louisville Regional Office Locations (KYTC)
  • 4. Real ID (Travel ID) vs. Standard License

1. The Big Change: Circuit Clerks vs. Regional Offices

For decades, Kentuckians went to their local courthouse to renew their licenses. That era is over. The state has transitioned all driver licensing services to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC).

  • Do NOT go to: The Jefferson County Judicial Center or local Circuit Clerk branches for licenses.
  • DO go to: A dedicated "Driver Licensing Regional Office."
  • Testing: The Kentucky State Police (KSP) still handles written and road tests, but you must schedule them separately from the issuance of the card.

2. 3 Ways to Renew: Online, Mail, or In-Person

The good news is that the new system offers more flexibility. You no longer have to stand in line if you qualify for remote renewal.

A. Online Renewal (Drive.Ky.Gov)

This is the fastest method. You can renew online if your name and address haven't changed and you are not upgrading to a Real ID for the first time. You can pay with a credit card, and your new license will be mailed to you.

B. Mail-In Renewal

If you prefer not to use a computer, you can mail in Form TC 94-191 along with a check. This option is popular for older residents or those currently out of state (e.g., military or students).

C. In-Person (Appointment Recommended)

Walk-ins are accepted at Regional Offices, but appointments are prioritized. You must go in person if you need a new photo, are changing your name, or are applying for a Real ID for the first time.

3. Louisville Regional Office Locations (KYTC)

Jefferson County has several dedicated Regional Offices. These are the only places to handle in-person licensing now.

Hurstbourne Regional Office

9112 Leesgate Rd, Louisville, KY 40222

*Located in the shopping center near Whittington Pkwy.

📞 Call Office
Dixie Highway Regional Office

4919 Dixie Hwy, Suite A, Louisville, KY 40216

*Busy location; appointments strongly advised.

📞 Call Office
Nia Center Regional Office

2900 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40211

📞 Call Office

4. Real ID (Travel ID) vs. Standard License

Kentucky offers a "Voluntary Travel ID" (Real ID) and a standard license. By May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID (marked with a black star) to board domestic flights out of SDF.

To upgrade, bring the following to your appointment:

  • Proof of Identity: Birth Certificate or Passport.
  • Proof of SSN: Social Security Card (not laminated) or W-2.
  • Proof of Residency (2 Documents): LG&E bill, Louisville Water bill, lease, or deed showing your current address.

🚀 Essential Resources for Kentuckians

👉 Drive.Ky.Gov (Official Online Renewal)

👉 Financial Aid: How to Apply for SNAP Benefits (Food Stamps)

👉 Health Alert: 2026 Free Vaccine Finder & Guide

Related Articles