License Plate FAQs

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Kentucky license plates.

How do I apply for a Kentucky license plate?

You can find a detailed outline of the wide variety of Kentucky license plates available, as well as how to order each one, in our License Plates & Placards section.

What do I do if my KY license plate becomes damaged?

Luckily, it's not a complicated process. Simply head down to your local County Clerk's office and they will put in an order for your new plate and issue you a standard plate to use while you wait. It typically takes four to six weeks to get a personalized plate.

For your convenience, the County Clerk's office will notify you when your new Kentucky license plate has arrived.

Who do I contact if I've lost my license plate?

Handle this situation much like you'd handle damaged license plates in KY; contact your local County Clerk's office.

Note that your replacement license plate won't have the same character combination, but you can request the same combination for the next calendar year. Given this fact, consider taking care of it all in one trip. Order a replacement license plate for now, and a new license plate for next year.

How much should I expect to spend for personalized license plates in Kentucky?

It costs $25 to apply for a personalized license plate, $15 to register it, and $40 to renew it each year. This applies to decal-only renewals, too.

You'll need to renew your Kentucky personalized license plate every December, and it will expire December 31 of the following year.

I need to transfer my personalized license plate. How do I do that?

Whether you're transferring the plate to a new vehicle or another vehicle you own, you'll need to take it to your local County Clerk's office. A clerk will issue you a standard plate. You'll "exchange" the standard plate for the personalized plate you just returned.

Note that if you're transferring the plate to a new vehicle, you'll need to provide information for it as well as go through the entire registration and titling process.

Help! I've lost my disabled parking permit!

No problem. Just pay a visit to your County Clerk's office with the $2 fee in hand.

Can I personalize my disabled license plate?

Yes! You can get Kentucky disabled license plates for motorcyclists, veterans, and Prisoners of War.

Download, print, and complete the application before heading to your local County Clerk's office. Fees vary from $12.50 to $20, so call ahead.

How can I get antique plates for my vehicle?

To qualify for an antique plate, your vehicle must be at least 25 years old and used mainly for parades, exhibitions, and shows.

Apply for the plate at your county clerk's office. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet must agree to issue the plate.

The plate costs $59, but doesn't have to be renewed. You cannot transfer antique plates to another vehicle.

Do I have to surrender my Kentucky license plates after relocating to another state?

Yes. Send your Kentucky plates to your former County Clerk's office.