LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Getting a driver’s license isn’t as easy as it once was. Drivers are finding longer lines when they arrive to get licensed.
Beginning May 7, Kentuckians will need a REAL ID driver’s license to identification card to get on an airplane and to access military and federal buildings.
McKay Tucker tried to get an early start on Friday.
“I’m just trying to get a replacement license,” he said.
He got to the driver's licensing regional office near Hurstbourne Parkway in Louisville around 7:45 a.m.
The line wrapped around the side and across the back of the building. Everyone was waiting for the same thing.
“I need to get a REAL ID. I drove by here yesterday and the line was back to the street. So I said I’ll here at 7:40 this morning. They open at 8. Got here at 7:40. The line was already back to the street. We are sitting here at 10:30 still waiting to get in,“ said Scott Roussell.
Drivers can schedule appointments online, but have said they didn’t have much luck.
According to the state’s transportation website, Drive.ky.gov, there are currently no appointments available at any of the four Louisville branches.
Kentuckians may renew their license or ID at any branch.
There are some appointments available in the coming days at branches in Somerset, Richmond and Prestonsburg.
Many drivers Spectrum News spoke with wanted to just try to drive up.
Jasmine Churchill went to the Bowman Field office. She said, “I’ve talked to other people. They say it’s been like this for weeks if not months.”
Tucker said he was prepared to spend his day trying to get his license.
“I’m lucky enough this is my off day, but I’m sure plenty of these people have things they need to take care of,” said Tucker.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said that applicants wanting to get their REAL ID are reminded to bring the required paperwork and proof of identity. This includes a Social Security card, proof of residency or name changes. A complete list of requirements can be found online.
