New driver’s license pilot phase begins in Frankin County

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) — Kentucky drivers are getting new driver’s licenses.

They’re supposed to be more secure. The state is doing this, gradually, county by county.

The pilot phase started Friday in Franklin County.

Circuit Court Clerk offices are in charge of scanning the documents, and giving out the temporary IDs.

“So far today everything has been really going well,” says Franklin Circuit Court Clerk Amy Feldman. “We’ve had a few little hiccups first thing this morning but after that we’ve hit the ground and we’re running with it.”

People were given the option of a standard license or a voluntary travel ID.

The voluntary travel ID lasts for eight year and allows you to fly from state to state. It costs $48.

“So that’s also why I did my research before I came down here because I wasn’t gonna step in line, drive all the way down here and have to go back to the house,” says resident Gordon Weber. “So I have all the necessary information and am definitely excited about the eight years so I don’t have to come back and wait in line again.”

Now the standard license, costing $24, will last for four years but a passport will be required for flying state to state, once the deadline hits.

For now, current driver’s licenses are still valid to use for flying until October 2020.

“What happens here is when you leave today you’ll get a temporary document that’s valid for 30 days,” explains Feldman. “You’ll receive your permanent credential within 7-10 business days.”

We witnessed some people being turned away because they didn’t have all the documents needed.

“Just be prepared,” says Feldman. “The DOT has an amazing website www.drive.ky.gov and you can use the I-document guide, check a few boxes and it will tell you every credential you need to bring.”

We tried speaking with some people after going through the process but they were upset with having waited for over two hours.

“The system itself just takes a little bit longer,” says Feldman. “We just need patience right now for the fact it’s new to us.”

The pilot will roll out in Woodford County next week and Hart County the following week.

For more information about the licenses, click here.