The cost to reinstate an expired Kansas driver's license depends on how long it has been expired

Kansas charges a reinstatement fee that varies based on the length of time your license has been expired. If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you pay a reinstatement fee of $20. If your license expired more than five years ago, the reinstatement fee is $40. On top of the reinstatement fee itself, you will also pay the standard renewal fee for a new license, which is $84 for an eight-year license (the standard term for adult drivers in Kansas).

This means your total cost will be either $104 (if expired less than five years) or $124 (if expired more than five years). These fees cover the processing of your reinstatement and the issuance of a new physical license card. You cannot straightforward pay a fee online; you must visit a Kansas Driver Licensing office in person to complete the reinstatement process.

Key Takeaways

  • A reinstatement fee of $20 applies if your license expired within the last five years; $40 if it expired more than five years ago.
  • You must also pay the standard renewal fee of $84 for a new eight-year license, making your total $104 or $124 depending on expiration date.
  • Reinstatement requires an in-person visit to a Kansas Driver Licensing office; you cannot complete it by mail or online.
  • You will need to bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of Kansas residency to complete the reinstatement.

What documents you need to bring to the licensing office

When you go to reinstate your license, bring your expired license card itself. You will also need a document that proves your identity—a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate all work. Bring proof of your current Kansas address as well, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If your name has changed since your license expired, bring documentation of that change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If you have moved out of state and back to Kansas, or if your license was suspended or revoked for any reason, tell the licensing office staff when you arrive—these situations may require additional steps or documents.

When you need a vision test or written test

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you generally do not need to retake the written test or vision test. The licensing office will straightforward process your reinstatement and issue a new card with your existing information.

If your license expired more than five years ago, Kansas requires you to pass a vision screening before reinstatement. Some licensing offices perform this screening on-site; others may direct you to an eye care provider. You do not have to retake the written knowledge test unless the licensing office has reason to believe your driving knowledge is outdated—this is rare and would be flagged during your visit.

How long the reinstatement process takes

The in-person visit itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the licensing office is and whether any complications arise with your records. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use to drive when ready while you wait for your physical card.

Your permanent license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before your card arrives, the temporary license is valid and recognized by law enforcement. Keep it with you until the permanent card comes in the mail.

Reinstatement offices and locations in Kansas

Kansas Driver Licensing offices are run by the Kansas Department of Revenue. You can visit any Driver Licensing office in the state; you do not have to go to the office in your home county. The state maintains offices in most mid-sized cities and all major population centers.

To find the office nearest you and check its hours, visit the Kansas Department of Revenue website or call 785-296-3671. Many offices operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening hours one or two days per week. A few offices are open on Saturday mornings. Calling ahead to confirm hours is a good idea, especially if you are traveling a distance.

What happens if your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked before it expired—for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, a DUI conviction, or accumulating too many points—reinstatement is more complicated than a straightforward renewal. You cannot reinstate a suspended or revoked license by just paying the fee and visiting the office.

First, you must resolve the underlying reason for the suspension or revocation. This might mean paying outstanding fines, completing a DUI education program, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can then proceed with reinstatement at a Driver Licensing office. Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue directly to find out what steps you need to take for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail if it has been expired for a long time?

No. Kansas only allows mail renewal for licenses that are current or expired for fewer than five years and have no other issues. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must visit a Driver Licensing office in person to complete the reinstatement.

Do I have to take a new photo when I reinstate?

Yes. A new photo is taken during the reinstatement process, and it appears on your new license card. This is part of the standard reinstatement procedure and cannot be skipped.

What if I lost my expired license and cannot find it?

You can still reinstate without the physical card. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency instead. The licensing office can look up your record in the system and process your reinstatement. You may pay a small additional fee for a replacement of a lost license, but this varies—ask when you arrive.

Is there a grace period after my license expires before I have to pay the higher reinstatement fee?

No. The five-year cutoff is fixed. If your license expired more than five years ago—even by one day—you pay the $40 reinstatement fee instead of $20. There is no grace period or window to avoid the higher fee.

Can I reinstate my license online or by phone?

No. Reinstatement requires an in-person visit to a Kansas Driver Licensing office. You cannot complete it online, by phone, or by mail, regardless of how long your license has been expired.