How to renew your Kansas driver's license
You can renew your Kansas driver's license either in person at a Kansas Department of Revenue office or online through the state's website, depending on which type of license you hold and when it expires. Most standard driver's licenses are valid for six years, and the state will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. You do not have to wait until the expiration date to renew — you can renew up to one year early if you prefer.
The method you use depends on your license type and how many renewals you have already completed online. Kansas allows some drivers to renew online, but others must renew in person. Understanding which path applies to you will save you a trip and speed up the process.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas driver's licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- Online renewal is available for many drivers but requires a valid credit or debit card and works only if you have not changed your address or name.
- In-person renewal at a Kansas Department of Revenue office requires your current license, proof of residency, and payment by cash, check, or card.
- If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
- The renewal fee for a standard six-year license is $97, though the cost varies slightly for commercial licenses and other types.
Renewing online through the Kansas website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your current license is still valid, you have not changed your address or legal name since your last renewal, and you have not already renewed online more than a certain number of times in a row. Kansas limits consecutive online renewals, so if you have renewed online multiple times, you may be required to renew in person at your next renewal.
To renew online, visit the Kansas Department of Revenue website and select the driver's license renewal option. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the $97 renewal fee. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
If you have moved, changed your name, or need to update any information on your license, you cannot use online renewal. You must visit a Kansas Department of Revenue office in person instead.
Renewing in person at a Kansas Department of Revenue office
In-person renewal is required if you have changed your address, legal name, or if you have reached the limit on consecutive online renewals. You will also need to renew in person if your license has been expired for more than one year. Visit any Kansas Department of Revenue office — you do not have to go to the office in your county.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment for the renewal fee. If you have changed your name, bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Payment can be made by cash, check, or card.
The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your renewed license on the spot if everything is in order. You will receive a temporary paper license to use when ready, and your plastic license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Wait times at Kansas Department of Revenue offices vary by location and time of day, so arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours can reduce your wait.
What happens if your license has expired
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew it using the same process as a current license — either online or in person, depending on your circumstances. However, if your license has been expired for more than one year, Kansas treats this as a new license rather than a renewal. You will need to visit a Kansas Department of Revenue office in person, provide proof of identity and residency, and you may be required to retake the written knowledge test.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Kansas, even if you have submitted a renewal request. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can show the renewal notice the state mailed you as proof that you have applied, but this does not give you legal permission to drive. Renew as soon as you notice your license has expired.
Renewal fees and payment methods
The standard renewal fee for a six-year Kansas driver's license is $97. This fee applies whether you renew online or in person. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and depends on the endorsements you carry. Motorcycle endorsements and other special designations may also affect the total cost.
When renewing online, you must pay by credit or debit card. When renewing in person at a Kansas Department of Revenue office, you can pay by cash, check, or card. The office will provide a receipt, and your payment is processed when ready. There are no additional fees for renewing early or for expedited processing.
Kansas Department of Revenue office locations and hours
Kansas has multiple Department of Revenue offices throughout the state where you can renew your license in person. The main office is located in Topeka, but there are satellite offices in many larger cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.
Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations may have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Because wait times can be long during peak hours, consider visiting early in the morning or mid-week if possible. You do not need an appointment at most Kansas Department of Revenue offices, but some locations may offer appointment scheduling to reduce wait times — check your local office's website to see if this option is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Kansas driver's license if I am out of state?
Yes, you can renew online from anywhere as long as you meet the other requirements — your license must still be valid, your address and name must not have changed, and you must not have exceeded the limit on consecutive online renewals. If you need to renew in person and are out of state, you will need to visit a Kansas Department of Revenue office when you return to Kansas.
What if I lost my driver's license before it expired?
If your license was lost or stolen, you will need to report it and request a replacement rather than a renewal. Contact your nearest Kansas Department of Revenue office to file a report and obtain a replacement license. You will need to pay a replacement fee and provide proof of identity and residency.
How long does it take to receive my renewed license in the mail?
Whether you renew online or in person, your new plastic license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you renewed in person, you will receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use while you wait for the plastic license to arrive.
Can I renew my license if my address has changed?
If your address has changed, you cannot renew online. You must visit a Kansas Department of Revenue office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. The office will update your address and issue your renewed license.
What if my name has changed since my last renewal?
You must renew in person if your legal name has changed. Bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name on your license and issue your renewal.