In Kentucky the permit tests are given by the Kentucky State Police (KSP) at driver testing centers: a written knowledge test and a vision test. Here is how to prepare and what comes after.
The test
- Multiple-choice questions on Kentucky traffic laws, road signs and safe driving, from the Kentucky Driver Manual published by KSP.
- The free Kentucky mock tests on PassDriveTest use 40 questions with 32 needed (80%). Check the current format with KSP before your test.
- You also pass a vision test at the testing center.
A study plan that works
- Read the Kentucky Driver Manual (free on the KSP driver testing page).
- Learn the signs on the Kentucky road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and read the explanation for every wrong answer.
- Learn the numbers: speed limits, following distances, blood alcohol rules for drivers under 21, and the permit rules below.
- Aim for 36 or more out of 40 on several different mock tests.
Permit rules for teens
- Under a 2025 law (HB 15) you can get a permit at 15 with a parent's permission, after passing the knowledge and vision tests. Some older KSP documents still say 16, so confirm with your testing center.
- Drive only with a licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat.
- Under 18, no driving between midnight and 6 a.m. unless you have good cause, such as an emergency, work or school.
- Hold the permit at least 180 days, be at least 16, and log 60 hours of supervised practice (10 at night) on the KSP Practice Driving Log before the skills test for an intermediate license.
Take a free Kentucky mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.