Voter Identification

 Kentucky’s Photo ID Law for Voting

Kentucky law now requires that voters present a photo ID.

A valid ID to vote, must have the voter’s name and photograph AND be issued by either:  

• The United States or the Commonwealth of Kentucky;  

• The United States Department of Defense, a branch of the uniformed services, the Merchant Marines, or the Kentucky National Guard;  

• A public or private college, university, or postgraduate technical or professional school located within the United States; 

•  Any city government, county government, urban-county government, charter county government, consolidated local government, or unified local government, which is located within this state

  
  

  The most common form of a valid photo ID is your driver’s license. Other examples of acceptable ID (as long as they include your name and photo) are:  

  • Military ID  

  • College ID  

  • Kentucky government ID 

  A voter’s identity can still be confirmed by personal acquaintance with an election official, but now the election official must sign an affirmation.

  
  

If you do not have a Photo ID:

If you are 18 years old and you do not have a valid Driver’s License, you are eligible for a free state-issued photo ID for the purposes of voting.

At your polling place, you can fill out a form explaining why you cannot get allowed photo ID. (Ask for a “Reasonable Impediment Form”.) You will need to show one of these other IDs:

• Social Security Card;

• Any ID issued by a county in KY that’s been approved by the State Board of Elections and shows voter’s name);

• Any ID card with both the voter’s photograph and name;

• Any food stamp ID card, electronic benefit transfer card, or supplemental nutrition assistance card issued by KY that shows voter’s name; or

• A credit or debit card that shows voter’s name.

Obtaining a Free State-Issued ID Card for Voting

If you need it to vote, the state will make you a free ID card. You get it where you can get a driver’s license, and drive.ky.gov is where you can find the nearest state office for that.

For a new ID, you must apply in-person and you’re encouraged to make an appointment. A Birth Certificate and Social Security card (photocopies not accepted) and proof of residency are required in obtaining a new ID. You can find more information at Drive.ky.gov.

Qualifications To Receive A Free Voter ID:

• Must be eligible to vote

• Must be registered to vote or register to vote upon issuance

• Must not possess another state-issued credential from Kentucky or another jurisdiction

• ​Must provide the required documents according to KRS contained in Kentucky Law (birth certificate, social security card, and proof of residency).​

Need Help?

Voters can call or text 844-338-8743 at any time to reach our Voter ID Helpline.