What the Kansas Written Test Covers
The Kansas written test has 50 questions, and you need to answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The test covers Kansas traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in different road situations. You take it on a computer at a Kansas DMV office, and you get your score when ready after you finish.
The test draws from the Kansas Driver's Manual, which is the official source for everything tested. Kansas does not publish the exact questions in advance, but the manual tells you the topics and rules that will appear. The test is offered in English and Spanish.
You can retake the test the same day if you fail, but you must wait at least one day between attempts. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, though each retake costs the same fee as the first attempt.
Key Takeaways
- You must score at least 40 out of 50 questions correct to pass the Kansas written test.
- The test is taken on a computer at a Kansas DMV office and covers only material from the official Kansas Driver's Manual.
- You can retake the test the same day if you fail, but you must wait at least one day between attempts.
- Each test attempt costs a fee; bring payment in the form your local DMV office accepts.
- You must bring a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number to the test appointment.
Documents You Need to Bring
Bring a valid photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license all work. You also need proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the easiest, but a W-2, tax return, or 1099 form also counts. If you do not have your Social Security number memorized and cannot bring a document with it, you cannot take the test that day.
If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign consent forms before you can test. Bring the same ID and Social Security proof documents even if a parent is present.
Some DMV offices accept cash, debit, or credit cards for the test fee. Call your local office ahead of time to confirm what payment methods they take, so you do not arrive without the right form of payment.
How to Register for the Test
In Kansas, you do not register for the written test online. You schedule it in person at a Kansas DMV office or by calling the office directly. Different offices have different phone numbers and hours, so search for the DMV office nearest you on the Kansas Department of Revenue website to get the right contact information.
When you call or visit, tell them you want to take the written knowledge test. They will tell you what dates and times are available and ask for your name, date of birth, and the type of license you are seeking (Class D for regular passenger vehicles, for example). Some offices let you book a few weeks out; others have shorter windows. If an office is fully booked, ask when the next opening is or whether you can go to a different location.
You do not need to study with a specific app or course before you test. The Kansas Driver's Manual is free and available on the Kansas Department of Revenue website as a PDF. Many people print it or read it on a phone or tablet. Some libraries also have printed copies.
What Happens on Test Day
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all your documents — ID, Social Security proof, and payment. The DMV staff will check your documents, confirm your information, and take you to a computer terminal. You will be given instructions on how to use the testing software, and then the test begins.
You have a set amount of time to complete the test — usually 30 minutes, though this can vary. The questions appear one at a time on the screen. You select your answer and move to the next question. You cannot go back to change an answer once you move forward, so read each question carefully before you choose.
When you finish or time runs out, the computer scores your test when ready. If you pass, you will see your score and receive a passing certificate. If you fail, you will see your score and the topics where you missed questions. You can retake the test the same day if you want, but you must pay the fee again and wait for the next available slot.
Common Mistakes on the Kansas Test
Many people fail because they do not read the Kansas Driver's Manual before testing. The manual is specific about Kansas rules — things like the speed limit on residential streets, when you must use headlights, and what to do at a four-way stop. If you have driven in another state, some of those rules may be different in Kansas, so do not rely on what you know from somewhere else.
Another common mistake is rushing through questions. Because you cannot go back, take a few seconds to read each question all the way through and think about the answer before you click. Questions that ask "which of the following is NOT true" or "what should you do first" require you to think about the exact wording.
Some people also fail because they do not bring the right documents. If you show up without proof of your Social Security number or a valid ID, the DMV will not let you test, and you will have to reschedule. Check the requirements before you go.
If You Fail the Test
Failing does not affect your ability to get a license later — it just means you need to pass before you can move forward. You can retake it the same day or come back another day. Most people who fail and then study the areas where they missed questions pass on the second or third attempt.
When you retake the test, you will get a different set of 50 questions, but they will cover the same topics. Focus on the areas where you struggled the first time. If you missed a lot of questions about road signs, spend extra time on the road signs section of the manual. If you missed questions about right-of-way, study that section more carefully.
If you fail multiple times, consider asking a friend or family member to quiz you on the manual, or read through the manual more slowly and take notes. Some people find it helpful to read the manual out loud or to draw pictures of road signs and situations to help them remember.
After You Pass the Written Test
Once you pass, you will receive a certificate or document showing your passing score. Keep this with you — you will need it when you go to take the driving test or to complete your license process. The passing score is usually good for a set period of time (often 12 months in Kansas, though this can change), so do not wait too long to use it.
Your next step is to schedule the driving test with a Kansas DMV examiner. You will need to bring your passing certificate, your ID, proof of Social Security number, and proof of vehicle insurance. The driving test is separate from the written test and is scheduled at a different time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Kansas written test online from home?
No. Kansas requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV office on a computer provided by the DMV. You cannot take it remotely or on your own device.
What happens if I run out of time before I finish all 50 questions?
The test will end when time runs out, and you will be scored on the questions you answered. Unanswered questions count as wrong. This is why it is important to work through the test at a steady pace and not spend too long on any single question.
Can I bring study materials or notes into the test room?
No. You cannot bring the driver's manual, notes, a phone, or any other materials into the testing area. The test is closed-book. Study before you arrive at the DMV office.
Is the Kansas written test the same for all license types?
The basic written test is the same for Class D (regular passenger vehicle) licenses. If you are seeking a commercial driver license (CDL) or a motorcycle endorsement, there are additional tests specific to those licenses, but the general knowledge test is the foundation for all of them.
How long is my passing score good for?
In Kansas, a passing written test score is typically valid for 12 months from the date you pass. Check with your local DMV office to confirm the exact validity period, as this can change. If your score expires before you take the driving test, you will need to retake the written test.