Voter ID in Kentucky

Kentucky is a non-strict voter ID state.

You will be asked to show an acceptable photo ID to confirm your identity when voting in person.

If you are a registered voter and cannot bring an acceptable ID to the polling place, you may cast a ballot by signing a sworn “Voter Affirmation Form” and providing an acceptable supporting document.

Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!

To vote by mail in Kentucky, you need to be a registered voter and unable to go to your polling place for an acceptable reason.

You must provide a copy of acceptable ID when you apply for your ballot.

Check here for a full rundown of the state’s rules!


Changing Your Legal Name

You must file a formal request with your county’s District Court to change your name in Kentucky.

If the court approves your name change, you will receive a court order that can be used to update the name on your ID documents.

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Kentucky Adult Name Change (No Marriage or Divorce)

You must contact the Kentucky’s Office of Vital Statistics office to change the name on your birth certificate. You may call the office at (502) 564-4212.

You will need to provide a certified copy of your name-change court order.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

You must update your name with the Social Security Administration before you can change your name on a Kentucky-issued ID.

You need to visit an ID-issuing office and update your Kentucky license or ID card within ten (10) days of changing your name.

Contact your local Circuit Clerk’s office or Driver Licensing Regional Office to confirm additional application requirements.

You will need to provide your updated Social Security card (showing new name) and an acceptable supporting document (PDF) demonstrating your name change. Examples include an amended birth certificate or name-change court order.


Updating Gender Markers

You must contact the Kentucky’s Office of Vital Statistics office to update the gender marker on your birth certificate. You may call the office at (502) 564-4212.

You will need to provide a notarized letter (on letterhead) that is signed by your physician. The letter must use specific language, confirm you have undergone gender affirmation surgery, and specify the date your surgery was performed.*

*Requirements for this letter are not explicitly defined by law.

Note: You must update your birth certificate with the state where you were born.

Visit an ID-issuing office to update the gender marker on your Kentucky driver license or state ID card.

You will need to provide one of the following documents:

  • updated birth certificate showing amended gender marker
  • court order confirming gender transition
  • 10-year US Passport showing amended gender marker
  • letter from surgeon confirming you have undergone gender affirmation surgery

Contact your local Circuit Clerk’s office or Driver Licensing Regional Office to confirm additional application requirements.