Teen Driver Insurance in Kentucky

Tojocu Editorial Team | Last verified: April 2026

Kentucky drivers under 18 must go through three phases of licensing: a Learner's Permit, an Intermediate License, and then a Full Unrestricted License. This program is similar to other graduated license programs across the United States and helps limit high-risk driving situations for the teen driver while increasing parental involvement and supervision. Kentucky lawmakers have passed a new law lowering the minimum age to apply for a driver's permit from 16 to 15. Gov. Andy Beshear signed the bill into law on March 25, and because he declared it an emergency, the change took effect immediately. Under this law, 15-year-olds can start applying for a driver's permit, down one year from the previous age requirement of 16. The state's graduated driver licensing program requires teens to demonstrate responsible driving behavior at each phase before advancing to the next level of driving privileges.

Licensing Timeline

Permit holders who are 15 years of age must hold the driving permit for a minimum of 180 days and reach the age of 16. After holding a permit for at least 180 days, drivers who are 16 years or older may schedule a driving test with the Kentucky State Police to apply for their intermediate license. After holding the intermediate license for 180 days and completing the required driver education course, drivers at least 17 years of age will be eligible for a full unrestricted license. Drivers must be at least 17 years of age to be eligible for a full unrestricted license.

GDL Restrictions

The driver is not permitted to drive between 12:00 A.M. (midnight) and 6:00 A.M. unless the driver can demonstrate a good cause for driving, such as emergencies, school-, or work-related activities. Passenger restriction if the driver is under 18- limited to 1 (one) unrelated person under 20 years of age. While you have your learner's permit, you are restricted to driving: Only while supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. Only between 6 a.m. and 12 a.m., unless for an emergency,or school/work-related purposes. With no more than 1 passenger who is under 20 years old, unless they are a family member. Violations during any phase will reset the required waiting periods.

Permit holding period: 180 days minimum. Nighttime restriction: 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM. Passenger restriction: Limited to 1 unrelated person under 20 years of age. Cell phone restriction: Not specified in current requirements. Supervisor requirement: Licensed driver age 21 or older. Nighttime exceptions include: emergencies, school activities, work-related activities. Passenger exceptions include: family members.

Insurance Requirements

Kentucky requires liability coverage of at least 25/50/25; $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident in bodily injury, and $25,000 in property damage; plus $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP). On top of that, KRS 304.39-020 mandates Personal Injury Protection (PIP) of at least $10,000. Kentucky is a choice no-fault state. Most drivers keep their no-fault PIP coverage, which means the first $10,000 in medical bills and a portion of lost wages is paid by your own insurer; no matter who caused the crash. Drivers who want the right to sue without meeting the tort threshold can reject no-fault coverage in writing under KRS 304.39-060. Under KRS 304.39-060, you have two options when you buy a policy: You carry the mandatory $10,000 PIP, and your own insurer pays first. In exchange, you give up the right to sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering unless your injuries meet the tort threshold.

Minimum liability limits: $25,000 bodily injury per person / $50,000 per accident / $25,000 property damage. Insurance system: choice. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is required at $10,000. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is required. Required at same limits as liability coverage unless rejected in writing.

Insurance Considerations for Teen Drivers

Teen drivers in Kentucky typically face higher insurance premiums due to their inexperience and statistical risk factors. The state's choice no-fault system means families must decide whether to maintain PIP coverage for immediate medical protection or reject it to preserve full legal rights from the first dollar of damages. The $10,000 minimum PIP coverage provides crucial immediate financial protection after accidents but may be insufficient for serious injuries, making additional coverage considerations important for families with teen drivers.

Practice Paths to Licensure

Option 1: Standard GDL path. 60 supervised hours required; 10 night hours required; driver education required; road test required.

Fees

Permit fee: $10-$15. License fee: $21.50-$43. Fees vary by county and license type/duration.