How to replace your Kansas driver's license

You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Kansas driver's license by visiting a Kansas Department of Revenue office in person with proof of identity and residency. The replacement takes about 15 minutes, costs $20, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If your license was stolen, you should also file a report with local police or the Kansas Attorney General's office, though this is not required to get a replacement.

Kansas does not offer online or mail-in replacement for driver's licenses. You must appear in person at a Kansas Department of Revenue office. The office nearest you depends on your county; you can find the full list and hours on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Kansas Department of Revenue office in person with a valid ID and proof of Kansas residency to replace your license.
  • The replacement fee is $20, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, file a report with local police or the Kansas Attorney General's office, though this is separate from the replacement process.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.

What documents you need to bring

You must bring one form of primary identification and one form of proof of Kansas residency. Primary ID includes a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of secondary documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or school ID, but you will need more of them and the process takes longer.

Proof of residency must show your current Kansas address and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. A piece of mail addressed to you at your Kansas address works. Bring the original document or a certified copy — photocopies and digital images are not accepted.

If your name has changed since your original license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Where to go and what to expect

Kansas has 10 regional Department of Revenue offices. The office you visit depends on your county of residence. You do not have to visit the office in your home county, but going to your county office is usually fastest because staff can verify your residency more easily. Find your county's office and hours on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.

Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Mornings on weekdays are typically less busy than afternoons or Saturdays. You can also call ahead to ask about current wait times. Bring all required documents in original form or as certified copies.

The staff member will take your photograph, verify your documents, collect the $20 fee, and issue you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address at the same office or by mail using Form DL-44.

If your license was stolen

Reporting a stolen license is optional but recommended. You can file a report with your local police department or with the Kansas Attorney General's office. A police report creates an official record that may help if someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently. The report does not speed up your replacement, but it protects you if the license is misused.

To file with the Kansas Attorney General's office, call the Consumer Protection Division or visit their website. To file locally, contact your city or county police department. Either way, keep a copy of the report number for your records.

Cost and timeline

The replacement fee is $20, paid in cash or card at the office. You receive a temporary paper license when ready. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though mail delays can extend this.

If you need your license sooner, Kansas does not offer expedited mail service. Your only option is to use the temporary paper license, which is valid for 30 days and accepted at most businesses, banks, and law enforcement stops. If you will be traveling or need the card before it arrives, plan to carry the temporary license with you.

If your address has changed

If you have moved since your last license was issued, bring proof of your new Kansas address to the replacement office. The staff will update your address in the system and mail your new license to the new address. You do not need to pay an extra fee for the address change when you are already replacing the license.

If you move after you submit your replacement but before the card arrives, you can update your address by mail using Form DL-44 or by visiting a Department of Revenue office again. Call the office to confirm whether you need to pay another fee or if the address change is free when done within a certain timeframe.

Replacing a license that is damaged but not lost

If your license is still in your possession but damaged — cracked, faded, or unreadable — you can bring it to a Department of Revenue office along with your proof of identity and residency. The process is the same as replacing a lost license: $20 fee, temporary paper license on the spot, and a new plastic card by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Bring the damaged license with you so staff can see the damage and remove it from circulation.

You do not need to file a police report for a damaged license since you still have it in your possession. straightforward present it at the office and explain the damage. Staff will take it and issue your replacement on the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my Kansas license if I do not have a primary ID?

Yes, but it takes longer. You can use a combination of secondary documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, school ID, and employer ID. You will need more documents than someone with a passport or military ID. Call your local Department of Revenue office to ask which combination they accept before you visit.

What if my temporary paper license expires before my plastic card arrives?

The temporary license is valid for 30 days. If your plastic card has not arrived by then, visit a Department of Revenue office again and request an extension. You may be able to get another temporary license without paying another fee, but call ahead to confirm the office's policy.

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Kansas requires you to appear in person at a Department of Revenue office. You cannot replace a license by mail or through an online portal. You must bring original documents and have your photograph taken at the office.

Do I have to report my license as stolen to get a replacement?

No. Reporting a stolen license is optional. You can replace it without filing a police report. However, filing a report creates an official record that protects you if someone tries to use the stolen license fraudulently.

What happens if I move out of Kansas before my replacement arrives?

If you move out of state, contact the Kansas Department of Revenue to have your replacement card forwarded or held for pickup. If you move to another state, you will eventually need to get a license from that state. Call the office where you applied to ask about your options.