TICHENOR CELEBRATES LAUNCH OF DRIVER TESTING BRANCH PILOT PROGRAM IN OLDHAM COUNTY

Applauds KSP’s efforts to enhance driver testing accessibility 

FRANKFORT, KY (Sept. 11, 2024)— Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, R-Smithfield, is pleased to announce the official launch of the Driver Testing Branch Pilot Program in Oldham County, an exciting initiative made possible by the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and Senate Bill (SB) 107, which she proudly supported. This innovative program, which officially began on September 1,  is designed to improve access to driver testing for young Kentuckians in counties that lack a permanent regional driver’s license office.

“I commend KSP for its exceptional efforts in launching this pilot program, as the agency’s commitment and expertise were vital in bringing it to life,” said Tichenor. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in enhancing accessibility for our communities, and the Kentucky State Police deserve recognition for its key role in its success.”

Under this pilot program, KSP will conduct road skills tests for 18-and-under applicants in Oldham, Marion, Barren, Grant, and Perry Counties. Testing will be offered at least twice a month in each county. This effort will significantly reduce travel time and minimize disruptions to the daily lives of young drivers and their families.

This driver’s testing initiative aims to address the long-standing issue faced by residents in certain counties who previously had to travel considerable distances to take their driver’s skills tests, which often interfered with school and work commitments. This new program is designed to alleviate these challenges by bringing driver testing services closer to home for residents in five strategically selected counties.

“I’m thrilled about the positive changes this initiative will bring to young drivers and their families by offering more accessible and convenient testing options.” Said Tichenor. “After hearing a consistent message from constituents on the inconveniences of regional testing,  I’m incredibly proud to help to bring licensing closer to home. I look forward to seeing positive results for Oldham County and will continue to advocate for the restoration of licensing to be handled at the local level across the entirety of my district and ultimately the state.”

Key Elements of the Driver Testing Branch Pilot Program:

Testing Locations:

  • Marion County: 144 E. Mulberry Street, Lebanon, Kentucky

  • Barren County: 100 Weldon Park, Glasgow, Kentucky

  • Grant County: 224 S. Main Street, Williamstown, Kentucky

  • Oldham County: 100 W. Main Street, La Grange, Kentucky

  • Perry County: 234 S. Main Street, Hazard, Kentucky

Eligibility: Limited to residents of the pilot counties applying for an intermediate license.

Scheduling: Appointments are required and can be made through the KSP online portal.

Currently scheduled days for Oldham County residents are September 17 and October 1.

KSP will evaluate the program’s effectiveness, with a report due by Oct. 31, 2025, to determine the potential for its continuation or expansion.

Locations are subject to change based on demand, but five counties will continuously be offered at one-time for bi-monthly pop-up testing. All other driver testing will continue to be offered at permanent regional driver’s license offices, which can be found HERE.

For more information on the Driver Testing Branch Pilot Program or to schedule an appointment, visit the KSP website.