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Kentucky Driver Information

This page provides information about vehicle, driver, and document requirements, state regulations, insurance coverage, and city-specific requirements, needed to drive with Lyft in the state of Kentucky.
To apply to drive in Kentucky, submit an application online or in the Lyft Driver app –– download it from the App Store (iOS) or the Google Play store.
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What you need to drive with Lyft in Kentucky
Drivers are required to maintain current documents. Failing to update a required document before the expiration date results in temporary deactivation.
Use your Lyft Driver app to upload your documents. To add documents in the app, tap 'Account' in the main menu, then 'Documents.
Vehicle requirements
  1. 2008 or newer
  2. 4 doors
  3. 5-8 seats, including the driver's
  4. Not a taxi, stretch limousine, or non-Express Drive rental vehicle
  5. Not titled as salvage, non-repairable, rebuilt or any other equivalent classification
See if your vehicle qualifies for premium ride types to earn more on each ride.
In select cities, you can rent a car through Express Drive with standard insurance included. Rental vehicles must be rented through the Express Drive program to be approved for use on the Lyft platform.
Driver requirements
  1. Valid driver’s license — Temporary or out-of-state licenses are also acceptable
  2. 25 or older
  3. Pass a driver screening, which reviews your driving history and criminal background check. Learn more about driver screenings.
  4. Any smartphone that can download and run the Lyft Driver app. See phone software recommendations.
Document requirements
Vehicle registration
If your name isn't listed on your vehicle registration, you must complete this authorization form to use that vehicle on the Lyft platform. Have the owner of the vehicle sign the form, and keep a copy in your vehicle at all times while in driver mode.
When uploading a photo of your vehicle registration, include the registration document and authorization form side by side in the same picture.
Annual vehicle inspection
Drivers in Kentucky must get an annual vehicle inspection. Print this form and bring it to a mechanic for an inspection.
Please upload a photo of your completed inspection form in the Lyft Driver app. To add documents in the app, tap 'Account' in the main menu, then 'Documents.
Virtual inspections
You’ll receive an email or notification when a virtual inspection is available. Follow the instructions to set up your virtual appointment.
Before your scheduled inspection time, you’ll need to be outside of your vehicle and have:
  1. A friend
  2. A penny
  3. Your keys
  4. Your vehicle
  5. VIN (on your registration in vehicle)
To complete an inspection, you'll need:
  1. Zoom app. Either download the mobile app and create an account, or sign in to an existing one.
  2. Seat belts buckled.
  3. Headlights and hazard lights on.
  4. To turn off Bluetooth.
  5. A mobile device charged to at least 20% or more, with good signal strength or W-iFi connection.
  6. A penny to measure the tread on your tires.
  7. A friend. Your virtual appointment includes a brake light inspection. You’ll need a friend or a way to prop up your phone to see the lights.
If you have any questions about virtual inspections, contact Rideshare Mechanic.
Defensive Driving course certificate
After being approved to drive and annually thereafter, all Kentucky Lyft drivers are required to take the NSC Defensive Driving course. If you've previously completed the NSC Defensive Driving course, no need to take it again. Simply upload your completion certificate to your Lyft Driver app.
If you have not previously completed the course, follow the instructions below. The course must be completed on a desktop or laptop computer, and it takes 2 to 4 hours to complete.
  1. Visit http://www.safetyserve.com/LYFT
  2. Select "New Student," and then "New Student Registration"
  3. Enter in KYLYFTDDC as your access code and submit
  4. Choose a login ID and password on the registration page, and submit. Use the phone number and email address linked with your Lyft account so we can verify your completion of the course.
  5. On the "My Courses" page, select "NSC Defensive Driving 10th Edition R2"
  6. Complete the course and upload your certificate to your Lyft Driver app. To add documents in the app, tap 'Account' in the main menu, then 'Documents. If you've already taken the course and need help accessing your certificate, contact the course provider, Safety Serve, at 1-800-775-1484.
Here's what the Defensive Driving course certificate looks like:
Provides an example of a NSC Defensive Driving Course Certificate of Completion.
TNC vehicle authorization form
If your name isn't listed on your vehicle registration, you must complete this authorization form to use that vehicle on the Lyft platform. Have the owner of the vehicle sign the form, and keep a copy in your vehicle at all times while in driver mode.
When uploading a photo of your vehicle registration, include the registration document and authorization form side by side in the same picture.
Emblem requirements
Drivers are required to display the Lyft emblem while in driver mode. The Lyft emblem is Lyft’s official trade dress. It helps passengers and law enforcement identify your vehicle.
Shows where to place Lyft emblem on front windshield.
The Lyft emblem should be displayed in the lower corner of your windshield on the passenger side every time you enter driver mode. Make sure to remove the emblem when you are not in driver mode.
Image of the Lyft emblem.
If you’ve just been approved to drive, you should receive your Lyft emblem shortly. If you didn't get one or need a new one, order one in your Lyft Driver app or Dashboard. While waiting for it to arrive, you may print a temporary emblem.
Lyft will send you a grey TNC vehicle decal. Once you receive your decal, place it on the lower right hand (passenger side) corner of your front window.
Kentucky driver regulations
Be sure to follow these rules when giving rides in Kentucky, and keep an eye on your email for important updates from Lyft.
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Hourly driver mode limits
In Kentucky, Lyft's standard time limit for driver mode applies.
Driver Certificate
Your can find your driver certificate in the Lyft Driver app in the 'Settings' tab under 'Account.' You may be required to present the certificates for inspection at the request of local law enforcement.
To view your private transportation driver and vehicle certificates:
  1. Open the main menu.
  2. Tap 'Account.'
  3. Tap 'Settings' to access your driver certificate.
Here's an example of a driver certificate:
This image shows how to find the driver certificate in the Lyft driver app.
Best practices
  1. Display all required emblems and placards
  2. Always have your driver’s license and insurance document
  3. Follow all airport rules
  4. Don't accept street hails
  5. Don't accept cash for rides
  6. Don't wait in taxi lines
Know your insurance
Review Lyft's coverage here.
Moving to or from Kentucky
If you're already a driver in a different state, and you're moving to Kentucky, send us a message with the following info:
  1. The date you're moving
  2. Your new shipping address
  3. A clear photo of your vehicle registration (side by side with your TNC Vehicle Authorization Form in the same picture, if necessary)*
  4. A clear photo of your completed vehicle inspection form**
* If you were already required to upload your vehicle registration when you became a driver, you do not need to send it in again.
** Vehicles in Kentucky require an inspection within 30 days of approval to be on the road, and an annual inspection after that. Please follow the annual vehicle inspection instructions above.
Moving from Kentucky to a different state? Find your new market here to see what steps you'll need to take.

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