Kentucky License Plate Lookup

Kentucky’s Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) manages all vehicle titling, registration, and license plate issuance through its Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing. In 2020, Kentucky recorded a total of 100,787 crashes, marking a 23.9 percent decrease from the previous year. However, the number of fatalities increased by 6.6%, rising to 780 from 732. If you’re considering buying a used car in Kentucky, it’s essential to perform a license plate lookup first. Some unscrupulous sellers may try to offload a damaged vehicle, making it appear to be in good condition. Additionally, if you can’t remember your car’s VIN number, this tool can help you retrieve its full 17-character sequence.

Giddy Up!

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Kentucky celebrates its deep connections to horse racing and breeding with providing “Horse Enthusiast” license plates. A portion of the proceeds from these plates goes to support equine programs and initiatives within the state, showcasing Kentucky’s dedication to its famous horse industry.

Where is the Kentucky License Plate Number?

All Kentucky plates are mounted on the rear, with the license plate number either embossed or printed on the plate. You can also find the license plate number on other vehicle-related documentation, such as the certificate of registration.

Getting a License Plate in Kentucky

If you’re moving to Kentucky from another state, you’ll need to convert your out-of-state license at the KYTC Driver Licensing Regional office. If you’re bringing in a car from your home state, it’ll also need to undergo a Sheriff’s inspection.

For titling and registration, you’ll need to bring the following items to the Office of the County Clerk:

• Proof of identification
• Proof of Kentucky insurance (issue date within 45 days)
• Completed application form
• Bill of sale (if applicable)
• Payment of all relevant fees

Motor insurance is mandatory in the state. According to state law, “an owner who fails to maintain insurance on his vehicle shall have his vehicle registration revoked.”

Registration renewals can be done either in person at the Office of the County Clerk, or via the KYTC’s online service. Once your vehicle is titled and registered, you can order permanent plates from the Office of the County Clerk.

Kentucky License Plate Variants

Standard: These use the Bluegrass State (or Team Kentucky) plate introduced in 2020. All plates use the “123 ABC” standard format.

Personalized: These use either standard, motorcycle, military, or special plates. They can contain up to six alphanumeric characters “in addition to a space or dash.” For motorcycle plates, however, you can have up to five alphanumeric characters. Personalized plates are unique, and only one unique combination can only appear on one plate at any time.

Much like other states, personalized plates must abide by state law and cannot contain any vulgar, insulting or derogatory meanings.

Military: Military plates are currently, or formerly, serving members of the US military. Special plates are also available for medal recipients. Plates for disabled veterans are also available.

Disabled: These plates are issued to persons who “lost the use of one or both legs, one or both arms or who is blind or whose ability to walk is impaired,” as certified by a licensed medical professional.

Specialty: These plates exist for people who want to identify with or show support to certain organizations, groups, interests, and charities. Plate designs include:

• Collegiate plates
• Conservation/wildlife plates
• Awareness plates (e.g., Breast Cancer)
• Organization/association plates (e.g., Keeneland Association)
• State services (e.g., Firefighter)
• Sports plates (e.g., Ryder Cup)