Overview
This lecture covers Kentucky driver's license types, application processes, safe driving practices, traffic laws, vehicle operation, emergency procedures, and sharing the road with others.
Types of Driver’s Licenses and Permits
- Class A/B/C: Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) with varying weight and use requirements.
- Class D: Standard operator’s license for most drivers.
- Class E: Moped license requiring a vision and knowledge test.
- Class M: Motorcycle license/permit, requiring vision, knowledge, and skills tests or completion of an approved course.
Licensing Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years old and a Kentucky resident.
- Under 18: Parent/guardian signature and compliance with graduated driver licensing (GDL) program.
- GDL includes three phases: permit (180 days, 60 hours of practice), intermediate license (180 days), full license (after driver education).
- Proof of identity, residency, Social Security, and school compliance needed for permit application.
Testing Requirements and Preparation
- Vision screening: minimum 20/40 acuity.
- Written knowledge test (80%+ to pass); available in multiple languages.
- Road skills test: vehicle inspection, safe operation, and specific maneuvers.
- Retake rules: one week wait after a fail.
License Renewal and Updates
- Licenses valid 4 or 8 years; under 21 expire 90 days after 21st birthday.
- Must update address or name within 10 days.
- No testing if renewed within 5 years of expiration.
Loss of Driving Privileges
- Suspension/revocation for DUI, repeated reckless driving, insurance violations, failure to pay fines/child support, or accumulating too many points.
- Graduated point system: 12 points (adults) or 7 points (under 18) within 2 years can cause suspension.
General Safe Driving Practices
- Regularly inspect tire pressure and tread; adjust seat and mirrors before driving.
- Always wear safety belts; children require special restraints.
- Do not drive while tired, under the influence, or distracted.
- Obey speed limits and adjust for conditions (weather, visibility, curves).
Emergency Procedures
- Use ABS for emergency braking; steer or accelerate to avoid crashes when needed.
- In collisions: stop, exchange information, help the injured, and report if damage >$500.
- For breakdowns: pull off roadway, use hazard lights, and set warning devices.
Sharing the Road
- Yield to pedestrians in (and sometimes outside) crosswalks.
- Bicyclists and motorcyclists have equal rights; give extra space (at least 3 feet to bikes).
- Watch for commercial vehicles’ large blind spots.
- Move over for emergency vehicles and pass farm equipment or animal-drawn vehicles carefully.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Graduated Driver License (GDL) — multi-phase licensing process for young drivers with increasing privileges.
- CDL (Commercial Driver's License) — a license required to operate large or specialized commercial vehicles.
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) — prevents wheels from locking during hard braking.
- No Zone — commercial vehicle blind spots where other vehicles are not visible.
- Implied Consent Law — you must submit to chemical testing if suspected of DUI.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Study the Kentucky Driver Manual in full.
- Gather required documents before permit/license application.
- Complete practice driving logs as needed for GDL.
- Schedule knowledge and road tests in advance at kentuckystatepolice.org/driver-testing/.
- Enroll in and complete approved driver education if under 18.