How Kansas Driver's License Renewal Works
In Kansas, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a local Driver's License office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have left, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people renew before their current license expires, though Kansas allows a grace period for certain situations.
Your Kansas driver's license is valid for six years from the date it was issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. About 60 days before that date, you should start thinking about renewal so you don't end up driving on an expired license.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas lets you renew online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes since your last renewal.
- You must renew in person at a Driver's License office if your license is already expired, if you need a new photo, or if your address has changed.
- Online renewal costs $20 and takes about 10 business days; mail renewal costs $20 and takes two to three weeks.
- You will need your current Kansas driver's license, proof of Kansas residency, and a valid Social Security number to renew.
- If you are over 70, Kansas requires you to renew in person and pass a vision test every three years instead of every six.
Renewing Online or by Mail
The fastest way to renew is online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website. You can renew online if your current license is still valid, your address has not changed, and you do not need a new photo. The online process takes about 10 minutes, costs $20, and your renewed license arrives in about 10 business days.
To renew online, you will need your current Kansas driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will also need a valid credit or debit card to pay the $20 fee. Once you submit your process, the Kansas Department of Revenue will mail your new license to the address on file.
If you prefer to renew by mail, you can request a renewal form from the Kansas Department of Revenue or pick one up at any Driver's License office. Mail your completed form along with your $20 payment (check or money order) and your current license to the address provided on the form. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks, so send it in well before your expiration date.
Renewing in Person at a Driver's License Office
You must renew in person if your license has already expired, if your address has changed since your last renewal, or if you want a new photo on your license. You will also need to renew in person if you are over 70 years old, since Kansas requires a vision test for that age group.
To renew in person, bring your current Kansas driver's license, proof of your current Kansas address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you have changed your name since your last renewal, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
Visit your local Driver's License office during business hours. You will take a new photo, pass a vision test, and pay the $20 renewal fee. The office will issue you a temporary license on the spot, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 10 business days. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to retake the written test and road test.
Documents You Need to Bring
Kansas requires specific documents for in-person renewal. You must bring your current driver's license or a valid form of identification. You also need proof of your Kansas residency, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.
You will need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or bring another document that shows your number, such as a tax return or W-2 form. If you have changed your name, bring the original or certified copy of the document that proves the change.
If you are renewing for a Real ID-compliant license (which is required for federal buildings and domestic flights), you will need to bring additional documents: a certified birth certificate or passport, and a second form of identification such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card.
Renewal Fees and Timeline
A standard Kansas driver's license renewal costs $20, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. If you are renewing for a Real ID-compliant license, the fee is $25. Payment methods vary by renewal type: online renewal accepts credit and debit cards, mail renewal accepts check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
The timeline depends on your renewal method. Online renewal takes about 10 business days from submission to delivery. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal gives you a temporary license when ready, with your permanent license arriving within 10 business days. If you are renewing in person and need a Real ID-compliant license, the process is the same timeline but requires the additional documents listed above.
Special Rules for Drivers Over 70
Kansas has different renewal rules for drivers aged 70 and older. Instead of renewing every six years, you must renew every three years. You must renew in person at a Driver's License office and pass a vision test each time. You cannot renew online or by mail.
When you renew in person, bring the same documents as any other in-person renewal: your current license, proof of Kansas residency, and your Social Security number. The vision test is administered at the office and checks your ability to see clearly enough to drive safely. If you do not pass the vision test, the office will discuss your options with you.
What to Do If Your License Has Expired
If your Kansas driver's license has been expired for less than two years, you can renew it in person at a Driver's License office without retaking the written or road test. Bring your expired license along with the other required documents. You will get a temporary license when ready and your permanent license within 10 business days.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, Kansas treats it as a new process. You will need to pass the written test and the road test, just as if you were getting your first license. You will also need to bring your Social Security card and proof of residency. Contact your local Driver's License office to schedule an appointment for the written and road tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Kansas license if I have moved out of state?
No. Kansas requires you to be a Kansas resident to hold a Kansas driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you should get a license from your new state. If you still live in Kansas but have moved to a new address, you can renew online or by mail as long as your license is not expired and you update your address during the renewal process.
What happens if I drive on an expired license?
Driving on an expired Kansas license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you may be fined. It is best to renew before your expiration date or as soon as you realize your license has expired. If your license expired recently, you can still renew in person at a Driver's License office.
How do I find my nearest Driver's License office?
The Kansas Department of Revenue website has a list of all Driver's License offices in the state, along with their hours and locations. You can search by county or city. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Call ahead or check the office website to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?
Kansas may suspend your license if you have unpaid traffic fines or court-ordered fines. Before you renew, contact the court or the Kansas Department of Revenue to check if your license is suspended. If it is, you will need to pay the outstanding fines before you can renew your license.
What is a Real ID-compliant license and do I need one?
A Real ID-compliant license meets federal security standards and is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. Kansas offers Real ID licenses for an extra $5 (total $25). You do not have to get one, but if you plan to fly domestically or visit federal buildings, you will need either a Real ID license or a passport. The process is the same as a regular renewal, but you need additional documents like a birth certificate or passport.