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This page will answer the most common questions we receive about motorcycle laws and licensing requirements in Kentucky.
Continue reading to find your answer and follow links to explore some of these topics in greater depth.
Motorcycle Helmet Law in Kentucky
Motorcycle helmets are required for riders under 21 years old.
Additionally, eye protection like a face shield or goggles is also required unless the motorcycle has a windshield attached.
A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment.
Wearing one can greatly reduce your chances of being seriously injured or killed if you are involved in a motorcycle crash.
Read more about motorcycle helmet laws and safety.
Kentucky Motorcycle Noise Restrictions & Exhaust Requirements
A proper muffler is required.
Noise restrictions may be enforced by local law enforcement or during periodic inspections.
Local jurisdictions may have their own ordinances regarding motorcycle noise limits.
Motorcycle Safety Inspections and Equipment Requirements
Period safety and equipment inspections for motorcycles in Kentucky are not required.
Motorcycle Passenger Laws in Kentucky
There are not any motorcycle passenger restrictions in Kentucky.
Whenever you ride with a passenger:
- Be sure to give them instructions on what they’ll need to do.
- Make sure they can comfortably reach the passenger handholds and footrests.
- Make sure that they are wearing all of the necessary motorcycle safety equipment.
Learn more about riding with passengers on your motorcycle.
Requirements for Daytime Running Lights for Motorcycles in Kentucky
Using daytime headlights is not required for motorcycles in Kentucky.
Using headlights during the day can help to increase your visibility to other drivers.
This is a smart thing to do regardless of whether the law requires it.
Kentucky Lane Splitting Laws
Lane splitting is not specifically mentioned as legal or illegal in Kentucky.
It is not specifically illegal.
There are some nuances to lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing.
Learn more about lane splitting.
Motorcycle Title Laws & VIN Verifications
The state of Kentucky issues titles to all motorcycles.
VIN verifications are required for out-of-state motorcycles.
If you buy a motorcycle without a title or are moving from a state that doesn’t issue titles, the registration documents and the Bill of Sale should serve as proof of ownership.
Learn more about motorcycle registration and title requirements in Kentucky.
Find some helpful tips for when you buy a motorcycle.
Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Kentucky
Motorcycle insurance is required in Kentucky, the minimum coverage limits are:
- $25,000 bodily injury coverage per person.
- $50,000 bodily injury coverage per accident.
- $10,000 property damage coverage per accident.
Remember, the minimum liability requirements kick in during the event of a collision with another vehicle. If you need more coverage for things like theft, single vehicle collisions, and other types of damage you’ll need to get a policy with comprehensive and collision coverage as well.
Compare quotes for free, and find cheaper motorcycle insurance.
Learn more about motorcycle insurance in Kentucky.
Motorcycle Safety Course Requirements & Details
An approved motorcycle safety course is not required to get a motorcycle license in Kentucky.
Completing the course will waive the requirements for the knowledge test.
A motorcycle safety course is a great way to get familiar with the basics of riding, learn about the most important motorcycle laws, and become a safer, smarter rider. No riding experience is necessary to complete a course.
Learn more about motorcycle safety courses and Basic Rider Training programs.
Is a Driver’s License Required to get a Motorcycle Endorsement in Kentucky?
Before you get a Kentucky motorcycle license, you will need to already have a standard driver’s license if you are under 18 years old.
Motorcycle Permit & Licensing Requirements in Kentucky
A motorcycle instruction permit is required for new riders.
If required, you’ll need to hold the learner’s permit and practice riding for at least 180 days if you are under 21 years old or 30 days if you are 21 or older before getting an unrestricted motorcycle license.
In order to get the permit, you’ll need to pass a written test and skills exam.
In Kentucky, motorcycle permit restrictions include:
- No passengers.
- Helmet required.
The permit is valid for up to 1 year, and can be renewed 1 time.
Learn how to get a motorcycle license in Kentucky.
Kentucky Motorcycle License Age Requirements
The minimum age to begin the Kentucky motorcycle licensing process is 18 years old without training or 16 years 180 days old if you complete a motorcycle safety course.