Essential Guide to Notarized Driver's License Translations for Foreign Nationals in Kentucky

Obtaining a driver's license in Kentucky can be a straightforward process for many, but for foreign nationals, it often involves an additional step: providing notarized translations of key documents. This requirement ensures that the Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) accurately understands the information presented in foreign language documents. This guide explains why notarized translations are necessary, what documents may require them, and how Silver Bay Translations can help you navigate this process smoothly.

A sample unofficial driver's license from Germany

Why Kentucky Requires Notarized Translations

Kentucky law requires that foreign nationals submit notarized English translations of certain documents when applying for a Kentucky driver's license. However, Kentucky uses different notarization formats depending on the type of document being submitted.

For foreign driver’s licenses, Kentucky specifically requires the use of its official state form — the TC 94-197 Interpreter Affidavit of a Foreign Country Driver License — which must be completed by the translator and notarized. This form serves as Kentucky’s standardized, sworn translation affidavit for driver’s licenses and is accepted statewide by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

For other official documents, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates, Kentucky does not provide a state form. In those cases, Silver Bay Translations provides a full English translation accompanied by our own notarized certificate of translation accuracy, which attests that the translation is complete and accurate.

In all cases, notarization provides legal assurance that the translated documents are true and correct representations of the originals, reducing the risk of errors or misunderstandings that could delay or complicate the licensing process.

Documents That May Need Notarized Translations

The most common document requiring notarized translation is the foreign driver's license itself. For this document, Silver Bay Translations completes and notarizes the Kentucky TC 94-197 form on your behalf.

The Kentucky DMV may also request notarized translations of other documents, such as:

• Birth certificates

• Identification cards

• Proof of residency documents

• Marriage certificates (in some cases)

If your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other official record is not in English, Silver Bay Translations provides a professional English translation along with our company-issued, notarized certificate of translation accuracy.

Because requirements can vary by county office, it is always best to check with the Kentucky DMV beforehand to confirm exactly which documents you need to submit.

How Silver Bay Translations Supports Your Application

Silver Bay Translations is a nationwide provider specializing in notarized translation services tailored to meet Kentucky DMV requirements. We offer certified translations in six languages, including:

• Spanish

• French

• German

• Italian

• Portuguese

• Dutch

Our team understands the specific needs of foreign nationals applying for a Kentucky driver's license. We ensure that every translation is accurate, clear, and compliant with DMV standards — whether that means completing the TC 94-197 form for a driver’s license or preparing a notarized company certificate for other official documents.

Electronic Notarization for Convenience and Security

One of the key advantages of working with Silver Bay Translations is our fully electronic notary process. We perform all notarizations digitally, which means:

• You can complete the notarization remotely without visiting a notary office.

• Digital signatures are legally binding and hold the same weight as traditional ink signatures.

• Electronic notarization speeds up the process, allowing you to receive your documents faster.

If you require hard copies, we provide printed versions that include the same digital signatures from both our translators and the notary. These documents are tamper-proof and cannot be altered, ensuring their integrity throughout your application process — whether for the TC 94-197 form or our company-issued certificate.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Translation Experience

To avoid delays or complications, keep these tips in mind when preparing your documents for translation:

• Verify document requirements with the Kentucky DMV before submitting your application.

• Provide clear, legible copies of your original documents to ensure accurate translation.

• Request notarized translations early to allow time for processing and any additional DMV requests.

• Choose a translation provider experienced with DMV requirements, like Silver Bay Translations, to avoid common pitfalls.

  
  

By following these steps, you can reduce stress and improve your chances of a smooth application process.

Why Choose Silver Bay Translations

Silver Bay Translations stands out as a trusted partner for foreign nationals needing notarized translations for the Kentucky DMV. Our strengths include:

• Nationwide service with expertise in DMV document requirements.

• Wide language coverage for most major languages and many others.

• Secure, legally binding electronic notarization.

• Fast turnaround times without sacrificing quality.

• Friendly, professional support to guide you through the process.

  
  

We understand the importance of your driver's license application and are committed to providing dependable, accurate translations that meet all legal standards — using Kentucky’s TC 94-197 form when required and our own notarized certificate for all other documents.

Next Steps to Get Your Notarized Translation

If you are preparing to apply for a Kentucky driver's license and need notarized translations, contact Silver Bay Translations today. Our team will:

• Review your documents and language needs.

• Provide a clear quote and timeline.

• Handle the entire translation and notarization process electronically.

• Deliver your notarized translations securely and promptly.

  
  

Starting early with a trusted translation provider can save you time and avoid unnecessary delays with the Kentucky DMV.