License Suspension and Revocation in Kentucky

1. How long is a driver’s license typically suspended for failing to appear in court in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, a driver’s license can be suspended for up to one year for failing to appear in court.

2. What is the legal blood alcohol concentration limit for a driver’s license suspension in Kentucky?


The legal blood alcohol concentration limit for a driver’s license suspension in Kentucky is 0.08%.

3. What happens if a driver fails to pay a traffic ticket in Kentucky?


If a driver fails to pay a traffic ticket in Kentucky, the ticket is sent to collections and the driver must pay the fines plus additional fees. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet may also suspend the driver’s license and/or registration until the fines are paid. In some cases, the court may issue a warrant for the driver’s arrest.

4. What are the common causes of license suspension in Kentucky?


The common causes of license suspension in Kentucky include:

– Failure to pay child support;
– Habitual reckless driving;
– Drug- or alcohol-related offenses;
– Failure to pay court costs, fines, or restitution;
– Driving with a suspended or revoked license;
– Accumulation of too many driving record points;
– Accumulation of too many uninsured accidents;
– Certain traffic violations, such as leaving the scene of an accident; and
– Suspension or revocation by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

5. Are there any probationary periods after license suspension in Kentucky?


Yes, after a driver’s license suspension in Kentucky, a driver must complete a probationary period that includes the completion of educational courses. This period typically lasts six months to a year. The driver must also pass a written knowledge test and/or a road skills test before their license can be reinstated.

6. What are the penalties for driving with a suspended license in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, the penalties for driving with a suspended license are typically a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 45 days in jail. Additionally, the driver’s license may be revoked for an additional period of time and the vehicle may be impounded.

7. Does Kentucky have an implied consent law regarding license suspension?


Yes, Kentucky does have an implied consent law regarding license suspension. Under this law, a Kentucky driver who is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is required to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood or urine) to measure their blood alcohol content (BAC). If the driver refuses, their driver’s license can be suspended for up to 12 months.

8. What are the reinstatement requirements for a suspended license in Kentucky?


To reinstate a suspended license in Kentucky, the driver must satisfy the requirements of the suspension, pay the necessary fees and complete a driver’s license reinstatement form. Drivers may also be required to pass a vision test, a written knowledge test and/or a road skills test. In addition, they must provide proof of insurance, a valid proof of identity, and may need to provide additional paperwork depending on the cause for suspension.

9. How can a driver contest a license suspension or revocation in Kentucky?


A driver can contest a license suspension or revocation in Kentucky by filing a written request for an administrative hearing with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Division of Driver Licensing within 14 days of the suspension or revocation notice. The request must be sent to the following address:

Division of Driver Licensing
200 Mero Street, Room A-150
Frankfort, KY 40622

10. Is there an administrative hearing for a suspended license in Kentucky?


Yes, Kentucky drivers have the right to request an administrative hearing for a suspended license. Drivers can contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Division of Driver Licensing to request a hearing.

11. How long does it take to get a license reinstated after a suspension in Kentucky?


The length of time to reinstate a license after a suspension in Kentucky varies by the type of suspension. Most license suspensions can be reinstated either immediately or within a few days of submitting a reinstatement fee. However, other suspensions may take up to several months or even years to reinstate, depending on the circumstances.

12. Are there any exceptions to mandatory license suspension or revocation laws in Kentucky?


Yes, there are some exceptions to the mandatory license suspension or revocation laws in Kentucky. One example is the hardship license, which allows drivers to apply for a restricted license while their licenses are suspended or revoked. This restricted license allows individuals to drive for medical, educational, and work purposes. Additionally, in some cases, individuals may be able to obtain a restricted license if they demonstrate a need for driving privileges in order to support themselves or their families.

13. What is the process for suspending or revoking a driver’s license in Kentucky?


The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) may suspend or revoke a driver’s license for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:

• Accumulating too many points on their driving record
• Failing to pay traffic fines or court costs
• Refusing to take a breath or blood alcohol test
• Being convicted of DUI/DWI
• Being convicted of a felony involving a vehicle
• Failing to provide proof of automobile insurance.

In order to suspend or revoke the license, KYTC will send the driver a Notice of Suspension or Revocation. The notice will explain the reason for the suspension or revocation, the length of the suspension or revocation, and any other information that may be relevant. The notice will also include instructions on how to contest the suspension or revocation. The driver must respond within 20 days from the date of the notice, or else their license will be automatically suspended or revoked.

14. Is it possible to obtain a restricted license after a suspension or revocation in Kentucky?


Yes, it is possible to obtain a restricted license after a suspension or revocation in Kentucky. An individual may be eligible for a Hardship License/Restricted Driving Privilege if the individual’s driver license has been suspended or revoked for certain offenses. The individual must meet certain requirements to be eligible for a restricted license.

15. How are driving records affected by suspensions or revocations in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, if your license is suspended or revoked, this will be reflected on your driving record. Depending on the type of suspension, it may remain on your record for a period of time, or it may remain there permanently. Your driver’s license may also be suspended or revoked if you receive too many traffic violations in a certain period of time. In either case, the suspension or revocation will remain on your record until it is removed. Additionally, a revocation can result in additional consequences, such as a longer suspension and a higher insurance rate.

16. Are there any penalties for failing to surrender a driver’s license after suspension or revocation in Kentucky?


Yes, Kentucky law states that failure to surrender a driver’s license or privilege to operate a motor vehicle after suspension or revocation is a criminal offense. The offense is punishable by a fine of up to $500. Additionally, a person who fails to surrender a driver’s license or privilege may be subject to an extended period of driver’s license suspension.

17. Is there any financial assistance available for reinstating a revoked or suspended license in Kentucky?


Yes, Kentucky offers hardship licenses that may allow individuals with a suspended or revoked license to drive for work or medical purposes. To be eligible for a hardship license, individuals must provide proof of their need to drive, pass a vision test, provide proof of insurance, and pay the required fees. Additionally, individuals may be able to take part in an alcohol education program to have their license reinstated.

18. How does Kentucky enforce its laws regarding suspended or revoked licenses?


Kentucky enforces its laws regarding suspended or revoked licenses by levying civil penalties for driving with a suspended or revoked license. These penalties can include fines, jail time, and the suspension of an individual’s license for an additional period. In addition, individuals could face criminal prosecution, including the possibility of jail time, if they are found to be driving while their license is suspended or revoked.

19. Do points get added to driving records after suspensions or revocations in Kentucky?


Yes, points may be added to driving records after suspensions or revocations in Kentucky. The number of points added depends on the type of violation. For example, a suspension or revocation for driving under the influence (DUI) will result in 8 points being added to the driver’s record.

20. What are the consequences of having multiple offenses of revoked or suspended licenses in Kentucky?


In Kentucky, the consequences for having multiple offenses of revoked or suspended licenses can vary and depend on the severity of the offense and the individual’s driving record. Generally, penalties can include fines, jail time, additional suspension or revocation periods, reinstatement fees, and points being added to the individual’s driving record. It is also possible for a person’s vehicle to be impounded and their license plates to be confiscated.