About the Kentucky KYTC written test
The Kentucky knowledge test (often searched as the Kentucky permit test or Kentucky DMV test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official Kentucky driver handbook published by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Kentucky applicants take a written test and vision screening with Kentucky State Police, and need a score of at least 80% to pass. Teens 15 to 20 follow a graduated licensing program with a permit, intermediate license and full license.
Kentucky permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You can take the written and vision tests and apply for a permit at age 15.
- Passing score
- You need a minimum score of 80% to pass the written test.
- Vision screening
- Initial screening requires 20/40 vision; after a vision specialist referral, 20/60 or better qualifies.
- Permit fee
- The learner's permit costs $15.00 ($18.00 with REAL ID).
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.02% for drivers under 21.
- Seat belt law
- Drivers and all passengers must wear a seat belt in vehicles made after 1981; children 40 inches or shorter need a child restraint and children under 8 who are 40 to 57 inches tall need a booster.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet before you test.
What Kentucky drivers should know
- Teens hold a permit 180 days and log 60 practice hours, 10 at night.
- Under 18: no driving midnight to 6 a.m. without good cause.
- One unrelated passenger under 20 allowed for intermediate drivers.
- A BAC of 0.15 or higher within two hours of driving brings mandatory jail time.
- Wait one week after failing the road test.
Topics covered in our Kentucky practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the Kentucky permit test
- Read the official Kentucky driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the KYTC.