You can now renew Kentucky driver's licenses online. Here's how it works

Many Kentuckians can now skip the trip to a regional office or local circuit court clerk to renew their licenses, the state Transportation Cabinet announced Monday.

Most can now renew their driver's licenses, as well as motorcycle licenses, fully online at dlrenewal.ky.gov. You can knock out the renewal process online as early as six months before your license's expiration or for up to a year after it expires.

To renew online, you have to pay with a debit or credit card, and there is a service fee.

The new online renewals work for "standard" licenses as well as Real IDs, but you'll still need to visit an office in-person to make the switch to a Real ID.

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Those replacing a lost or stolen license, upgrading from four-year to eight-year expiration, getting a commercial license or changing their name or address will also need to renew in person.

The launch of the online renewal system comes as the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet continues to move licensing services from local circuit court clerk offices to Drivers Licensing Regional Offices.

Louisville has two regional offices, at 9112 Leesgate Road and 3545 Roger E. Schupp St. A third office is also coming soon on Dixie Highway.

Reach reporter Mary Ramsey at mramsey@gannett.com, and follow her on Twitter @mcolleen1996. Support strong local journalism in our community by subscribing to The Courier Journal today.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: How to renew a Kentucky driver's license, Real ID online