Starting Jan. 1, Kentucky drivers must pass a vision test to renew their license
Starting Jan. 1, Kentucky drivers must pass a vision test when renewing their licenses.
Gov. Andy Beshear signed House Bill 439 into law after the state legislature passed it three years ago, and it's just now taking effect at the start of 2025.
Anyone renewing their driver's license in Kentucky will need a vision test, but it doesn't have to be an extra appointment — it can be given at the same time as your renewal.
The other option is that drivers can ask their vision specialist to perform a test, and they'll provide you with a state-approved form.
If done at a KYTC office, it's free. If not, a vision specialist may charge a fee.
So, what happens if you fail the vision test?
"So should screening be performed at one of our regional offices and the driver not pass, we will refer them to see a vision specialist of their choice, and they can do a further evaluation and explore their options to see if there's something that can be corrected," said Naitore Djigbenou, the KYTC public affairs executive director. "Sometimes it's simple, just a pair of glasses or contact lenses, and they're able to come in and complete that renewal process with us."
KYTC says if you already wear glasses, bring them to your vision test.
"We will just make a designation on your card that says that in order for you to drive that, you need to continue to wear those corrective lenses," the representative said.
First-time drivers already get a vision screening done by the Kentucky State Police, which won't change.
With this new law, you'll get another vision screening by KYTC with each renewal.
Other states, like Ohio and Indiana, already have similar laws on the books.
KYTC says this is all in the name of safety.
"So safe driving requires good eyesight," Djigbenou said. "And that's why it's been a long, standing tradition to go ahead and get that test the first time you get your license."
If you opt to go to a vision specialist, online and mail-in renewal is still available. You'll just have to upload the state-approved form online.
Also, Kentuckians have to get their Real IDs by May.
If you're just upgrading your regular license to a Real ID, you won't need a vision test.
