To receive a license renewal reminder/registration code it will be your responsibility to have a valid email address on file with the KBC office. If you are unsure that the board has your current information, please email kbc@ky.gov with the following information: Legal name, DOB and the last 4 of your SS# to verify your account.
Please note the below items:
All personal license renewals will require a valid email address, a current state government photo ID, and a passport style photo to be uploaded.
To meet the photo requirements, we suggest the following if you’re taking the picture yourself:
*** NO AI Photos or Altered Photos will be accepted. ***
Stand facing forward.
Take your photo in a well-lit room.
Capture the shoulders up.
Use a solid light color as your background.
Avoid wearing sunglasses or hats that cover your facial features.
Photo must have been taken within the last 6 months.
You may smile in your photo.
Take the photo using your phone, turn off the live mode option.
Please note what is NOT accepted. Examples of unacceptable photos are ones that include your spouse, friends, family or pets, car-selfies, or photos that are too dark/bright/blurry that make features indistinguishable. A $25.00 reprint fee will be applied for a license that is printed with an inadequate photo.
Kentucky has implemented a photo requirement for the past two (2) years, posting of licensure will be strictly enforced; failure to meet photo requirements may delay or prevent your license from being printed. It is important to regularly check your emails for deficiency notices to ensure compliance and timely processing of your license.
A renewal submitted that does not meet the printing requirements will be sent a deficiency notice by email, you will have 10 days to make corrections before the application is closed.
Agency staff are available 8:00 am – 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. KBC will be closed Friday, July 4th. 2025 After hours and weekends are not staffed. All calls and emails are returned in the order received. Email is best kbc@ky.gov if you have technical questions, provide your name, license number and a screenshot to better assist you.
We welcome in office visits, for security purposes we keep the doors locked. If you need immediate assistance please visit us at 1049 US HWY 127 S, Annex #2 Frankfort KY 40601 - We are located between the Days Inn Motel and Dr. Kings Animal Clinic. Drive up the steep entry and make a right, we are the only active agency in the complex. Please give the door a light knock to let our team know you are here however we maybe on the phone so please be patient and we will be with you as quickly as we can.
As of July 1, 2023 KBC no longer accepts physical payments. All fees and fines are now available through the online application system.
Renewal Information
All licenses must be renewed beginning July 1 through July 31 of each year. If the license renewal must be received through the
online portal by July 31st, 11:59 PM EST or the license will be expired and the appropriate restoration fee must be paid, no exceptions.
Click here to access the online portal
Member or Spouse of United States Armed Forces
If you or your spouse are a member of the United States Armed Forces and you hold a current and active license in a U.S. state or territory other than Kentucky, you may transfer your license by submitting the Military Sponsor License Transfer Application with required documentation. You must submit a copy of your military orders moving you to Kentucky, proof of your existing out-of-state license, and proof of good standing. You must also agree to abide by the Board's statutes and regulations while practicing in Kentucky. Please be advised that military service member and service members' spouses' applications receive priority treatment.
First License
Please refer to the Licensing Requirements section for field-specific details on obtaining your first license.
Please refer to the Out-of-State Info and Salon Requirements for information about obtaining these types of licenses.
Duplicate Licenses
Duplicate licenses will be available on August 1st 2025, please do not request a duplicate license until after you have renewed to the new expiration of 7/31/2026. The application fees are non-transferable and they are non-refundable. A licensee must submit the duplicate license application with fee to purchase a duplicate license. The license will print indicating the license is a Duplicate copy.
Restoration
An inactive license can be renewed/restored provided the license has been expired for less than five (5) years by submitting the renewal application through your online portal along with the required fee. This application and fee are non-transferable and non-refundable.
License expired over 5 years
To restore a license expired for a period exceeding five (5) years, the statute requires the individual to apply and successfully complete the respective theory and practical examination. Upon completion of the examinations, you will be eligible to apply and purchase a new license through the online portal. All associated applications and fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Certification
Any licensee can request a certification for their license. Certifications are typically used when applying for a license in another state. Applicants must submit the Certification Request through the online portal along with the fee of $25. Certifications can only be submitted to the transferring state. No certification will be mailed to a private address. This application and fee are non-transferable and non-refundable.