Stop right now. Open your wallet. Check the expiration date on your driver’s license. This 5-second task could save you unnecessary fines, penalties, and hassles. By law, your driver’s license needs to be renewed every four years, and Kentucky no longer mails written notification reminders.
A true personal story follows. Recently, upon presenting my driver’s license at an airport security checkpoint, I was informed it had expired. A bit of panic briefly ensued, and then the friendly TSA agent said, “it’s happening more and more frequently these days since the state of Kentucky has stopped issuing reminder notices,” He graciously allowed me to continue my journey. I can’t report that I had as much success at the rental car kiosk in my destination city. The process abruptly ended when it came time to present a valid license to complete the paperwork. Thankfully, I was traveling with a companion with a current license, and we were quickly on our way.
So, have notification policies changed in the state?
Here’s the answer. The State of Kentucky recently announced it would no longer send out a card telling drivers it is time to renew their licenses.
Nearly one million Kentucky drivers receive reminder cards each year. However, state officials say that courtesy comes with a cost. Officials have decided to stop sending those cards to build up the state’s road fund.
“This was one way that we can make sure by eliminating the expense of sending out these reminder cards, any cost savings can now be stewarded toward that road fund which we know goes toward building those bridges and roads,” said Naitore Djigbenou from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Officials say the state will save about $250,000 each year by not sending the reminder cards. However, the Letcher County Circuit Court Clerk worries that people will not remember to renew their licenses, which will cause them problems.
“If you let it go for more than one year, you have to take the written test. If it goes for another period, you must start all over. So, it’s really good not to let them expire,” Margaret Nichols said.
They hope to offer a digital reminder via text or email. In the meantime, set yourself a personal reminder to annually check your driver’s license on your birthday to avoid added fees, penalties, and unnecessary embarrassment as you travel the highways and friendly skies.
Original post-October 17, 2017