What You Need to Do to Get Your Kansas License Back
To reinstate a suspended license in Kansas, you must first find out why it was suspended, then complete the specific steps that reason requires. The Kansas Department of Revenue handles most suspensions, and they will not reinstate your license until you have satisfied their requirements — which vary widely depending on whether you were suspended for unpaid traffic fines, a DUI conviction, failure to appear in court, or another cause.
The reinstatement process is not automatic. You must contact the Kansas Department of Revenue, Driver Control Bureau, pay any fees owed, provide proof that you have resolved the underlying issue, and then submit a formal reinstatement request. Only after they approve your request will your license be active again.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue, Driver Control Bureau, to learn the exact reason your license was suspended and what steps you must take to resolve it.
- Most suspensions require you to pay a reinstatement fee (typically $100 to $150 in Kansas) plus any outstanding fines, court costs, or restitution.
- If your suspension was due to a DUI conviction, you will likely need to complete a substance abuse evaluation and install an ignition interlock device before reinstatement is possible.
- Proof of financial responsibility (SR22 insurance) is required for certain suspension reasons, and you must maintain it for a set period after reinstatement.
- The reinstatement process can take several weeks, so plan ahead if you need your license for work or other essential activities.
Contact the Driver Control Bureau to Confirm Your Suspension Reason
Before you can take any action, you need to know exactly why your license was suspended. Call the Kansas Department of Revenue, Driver Control Bureau, at 785-296-3671 or visit their office in Topeka. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. They will tell you the suspension reason and what you must do to resolve it.
Common suspension reasons in Kansas include unpaid traffic fines or court costs, failure to appear in court, DUI or DWI conviction, driving without insurance, accumulating too many points on your driving record, or child support arrears. Each reason has different reinstatement requirements, so this step is essential.
If you cannot reach the Driver Control Bureau by phone, you can also check your suspension status online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website, though you may still need to call to get detailed instructions on what to do next.
Pay Outstanding Fines, Court Costs, and the Reinstatement Fee
Most suspensions require payment before reinstatement. You will owe the reinstatement fee itself (typically $100 to $150, though this varies), plus any unpaid traffic fines, court costs, or restitution tied to the reason for suspension.
Contact the court that issued the ticket or conviction to confirm the exact amount owed. If your suspension was due to unpaid fines, the court will tell you where and how to pay. Some courts accept payment by phone, online, or in person. Once you have paid, ask for written confirmation or a receipt — you will need proof of payment when you request reinstatement.
If you cannot afford to pay the full amount at once, some Kansas courts allow payment plans. Contact the court clerk to ask whether a payment arrangement is possible in your case.
Complete DUI-Related Requirements If Applicable
If your suspension was due to a DUI or DWI conviction, reinstatement involves more steps than payment alone. Kansas requires you to complete a substance abuse evaluation by a licensed evaluator before your license can be reinstated. The evaluation determines whether you need treatment, and you must complete any recommended treatment program.
You will also need to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you drive. This device prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. The device must remain installed for a period set by the court — typically 12 months to 3 years depending on your conviction history. You pay for installation and monthly monitoring yourself, which usually costs $60 to $100 per month.
Once the evaluation is complete and the interlock is installed, you will need to provide proof of both to the Driver Control Bureau as part of your reinstatement request. Keep all documentation from the evaluator and the interlock company.
Obtain SR22 Insurance If Required
Certain suspension reasons — particularly DUI convictions, driving without insurance, or accumulating too many points — require you to file an SR22 form with the Kansas Department of Revenue. An SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry the minimum required auto insurance.
You cannot file an SR22 yourself. Instead, contact an auto insurance company and tell them you need an SR22 filing. They will file it with the state on your behalf, usually at no extra charge beyond your regular insurance premium. However, SR22 insurance typically costs more than standard coverage because insurers view you as higher-risk.
The SR22 must be in place and active before you can request reinstatement, and you must maintain it for the period the court or Driver Control Bureau specifies — often 3 years. If your insurance lapses, the company will notify the state and your license will be suspended again.
Submit Your Reinstatement Request to the Driver Control Bureau
Once you have completed all required steps — paid fees and fines, finished any DUI evaluations or treatment, installed an interlock if needed, and obtained SR22 insurance if required — you are ready to request reinstatement.
Contact the Driver Control Bureau again by phone (785-296-3671) or in person to submit your reinstatement request. Have ready proof of payment, proof of completed evaluations or treatment, proof of interlock installation, and proof of SR22 insurance (if applicable). The Driver Control Bureau will review your documents and, if everything is in order, will reinstate your license.
Reinstatement typically takes 1 to 3 weeks after you submit your request, though it can take longer if documents are missing or incomplete. Once approved, you will receive written confirmation, and your license will be active again. You can then obtain a replacement physical license card at any Kansas DMV office if needed.
Understand What Happens If You Drive on a Suspended License
Driving while your license is suspended is a criminal offense in Kansas. A first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $500. A second offense within 10 years carries up to 6 months in jail and a fine up to $1,000. A third or subsequent offense is a felony.
Beyond criminal penalties, driving on a suspended license will extend your suspension period, add points to your driving record, and make future reinstatement more difficult and expensive. If you need to drive before your license is reinstated, explore alternatives such as public transportation, carpooling, or ride-sharing services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reinstate a suspended license in Kansas?
The timeline depends on how quickly you complete the required steps and submit your reinstatement request. Once the Driver Control Bureau receives your request with all necessary documents, reinstatement typically takes 1 to 3 weeks. If documents are missing or incomplete, the process will take longer.
Can I drive to work while my license is suspended if I have a job that requires it?
Kansas does not issue restricted or hardship licenses for most suspension reasons. Driving on a suspended license is illegal regardless of the reason, and you risk criminal charges, jail time, and extension of your suspension. You must use alternative transportation until your license is reinstated.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee and outstanding fines?
Contact the court that issued your ticket or conviction and ask about a payment plan. Some Kansas courts allow you to pay fines in installments over time. You can also ask the Driver Control Bureau whether any fee waivers or reductions are available based on financial hardship, though these are not may provide.
Do I have to keep SR22 insurance after my license is reinstated?
Yes. If SR22 was required for your suspension, you must maintain it for the full period ordered by the court or Driver Control Bureau — usually 3 years. If your insurance lapses, the company will notify the state and your license will be suspended again when ready.
What if I lost my paperwork proving I completed the DUI evaluation or treatment program?
Contact the evaluator or treatment facility directly and request a copy of your completion certificate or letter. Keep multiple copies of all documents related to your reinstatement — the Driver Control Bureau may ask for them again if your license is suspended in the future.