Looking For a Pet License in Kentucky?
Ensure your pet is protected with an official Kentucky pet ID tag. Our custom pet licenses help you comply with local regulations while making it easier to reunite lost pets with their owners.
Does Kentucky Require a Pet License?
Yes! Many counties in Kentucky require pet owners to license their pets as part of local pet regulations. Even if it’s not mandatory in your area, a pet ID tag is essential for quickly identifying and returning lost pets.
In Kentucky, the General Pet Licensing Requirements Include:
- Dogs and cats over 6 months must be licensed in most counties.
- Proof of rabies vaccination is required before obtaining a license.
- Licensing fees vary depending on your county and whether your pet is spayed/neutered.
- Pet licenses must be renewed annually in most counties.
Our Kentucky Pet IDs are perfect for dogs, cats, and any other family pets. Each Kentucky Dog Driver’s License is printed with your pet’s photo and detailed information such as address, breed, date of birth and more! Our tags are printed on heavy duty plastic to ensure you the highest quality and durability.
Limited Time Offer for Pet Lovers!
ON SALE – $17.95 (1)Wallet ID and (3) Keychain IDs
This special bundle is designed to give you peace of mind and multiple ways to identify your furry friend, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Our pet IDs are durable, personalized, and available for all 50 states, ensuring your pet gets the best possible care and safety.
Why You Should License Your Pet in Kentucky
Owning a pet is a big responsibility, and a Kentucky Pet License is one of the easiest ways to keep your furry friend safe and legal. Here’s why pet licensing in Kentucky is important:
Easier Identification & Faster Returns – A pet license helps lost pets reunite with their owners quickly. Licensed pets are often returned home without being taken to a shelter.
Proof of Rabies Vaccination – Licensing ensures that pets are vaccinated, keeping communities safe from rabies outbreaks.
Avoid Fines & Legal Issues – Many counties impose fines for unlicensed pets, so keeping your pet’s license up to date helps you avoid penalties.
Support Animal Shelters – Pet licensing fees support local animal shelters and animal control services, helping more pets find homes.
Increased Public Safety – Having licensed and vaccinated pets helps reduce stray animal populations and keeps communities safer.
Pet Licensing and Identification in Kentucky: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a pet license?
A pet license is a legal registration for your pet (usually for dogs, and sometimes cats) that is required by local authorities. When you license your pet, you receive an official tag for the animal’s collar as proof of registration and current rabies vaccination. Pet licenses help identify your pet and show that you are complying with local pet ownership laws. They are used to keep records of pets in the community and to ensure each dog or cat has up-to-date rabies shots for public safety.
- What is the Kentucky dog license law?
Kentucky handles dog licensing at the county and city level rather than having one statewide license. Kentucky state law (KRS § 258.135) allows each county or city to require pet licenses by local ordinance, meaning the rules can vary by location. In practice, most Kentucky counties do require you to license your dog. For example, Louisville/Jefferson County and many other counties mandate that all dogs (and often cats) over a certain age be licensed each year. Always check your specific county’s regulations, but generally Kentucky pet owners must register their dogs with the local county and keep a license tag on the dog’s collar.
- How do I get a dog license in Kentucky?
Getting a dog license in Kentucky typically involves a few simple steps:
- Contact your local county animal control, animal services, or county clerk’s office to obtain a pet license application (many counties also offer online licensing).
- Fill out the application with your information and details about your dog (name, breed, age, color, etc.).
- Provide proof of rabies vaccination (a current rabies certificate from a veterinarian is required before a license can be issued).
- Provide proof of spay/neuter if applicable, since some counties have lower fees for pets that are fixed.
- Pay the licensing fee (an annual fee set by your county).
Once you submit these, you’ll receive an official dog license tag to put on your pet’s collar. In some areas of Kentucky, you can also license your pet at local animal shelters or participating vet clinics, or even by mail or online for convenience.
- What do I need to license my dog in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, to license your dog you will generally need the following:
- Your pet to be of licensing age: Most counties require licensing once a dog (or cat) is around 4 to 6 months old (old enough to have its rabies shot).
- Proof of rabies vaccination: You must show a valid rabies vaccination certificate from a veterinarian. This is mandatory since licensing is tied to rabies prevention.
- Proof of spay/neuter (if applicable): If your dog is spayed or neutered, some counties offer a lower license fee, so providing proof (like a vet certificate) can qualify you for the discount.
- Owner and pet information: You’ll provide basic info such as your name, address, phone number, and your dog’s name, breed, color, age, and microchip number (if it has one).
- Payment for the license fee: The fee varies by county and by your pet’s spay/neuter status. Have a form of payment (cash, check, or credit card) as required by your local licensing office.
