The Kentucky State Police road test

When you can take it

Teens also bring the Graduated Driver License Skills Test Eligibility Letter, printed no more than seven days before the test.

What to bring

• A licensed driver 21 or older. You can't drive yourself to the test, and breaking that or any traffic law at the site means your test is rescheduled.
• Proof the car is registered, and proof of insurance: an insurance card, the current policy or a written binder from an agent.
• A rental car only if your name is on the rental contract as an operator.
• A temporary tag is fine if it matches the car and is valid on test day.

The car check

The examiner reviews the registration and insurance, then asks you to show the headlights, dimmer switch, horn, wipers, turn signals, emergency brake, flashers and brake lights. They also check brakes, lights, plate, windshield, mirrors, steering, muffler and seat belts. The front passenger seat must be clean because the examiner sits there.

Missing or broken equipment, heavy window tint, extra flashing lights or anything blocking the windshield can get the car rejected.

What's tested and what fails you

• Stops, backing, turning the car around, stopping and starting on a hill, parallel parking, intersections, speed, turns, lane use, right-of-way and overall control.
• Any collision, traffic violation or dangerous act can fail you on the spot.
• Not following the examiner's instructions twice disqualifies you.
• Parallel park assist isn't allowed. A backup camera is, but you must still use your mirrors and look over your shoulder.
• Interpreters can't ride along, though one can help before and after.
• You get a pass or fail score sheet with no number on it.

After the test

Pass, and the examiner puts an Intermediate License sticker on a teen's permit. Adults go to a Regional Office for their license and get a paper one until the card arrives. Fail, and you wait at least one week before trying again.

Road tests run at KSP sites across the state, including Louisville-Bowman and two in Lexington. Frankfort road tests moved to 103 Regan Street on October 5, 2026.