How to Get Your Driver's License in Kansas

What You Need to Do to Get a Kansas Driver's License

To get a Kansas driver's license, you will pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity and Kansas residency. The process takes place at your local Driver License office, and you can complete it in one visit if you bring everything required. Most people finish the written test and road test on the same day, though you may need to schedule the driving portion in advance depending on how busy your local office is.

Kansas issues three types of driver's licenses: a standard license (valid for six years), a Real ID-compliant license (also six years, required for federal buildings and domestic flights), and a commercial driver's license (CDL, for operating large trucks). This guide covers the standard and Real ID licenses. The process is the same for both, except Real ID requires one additional document proving your Social Security number.

Key Takeaways

You must bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of Kansas residency, and your Social Security card or a document showing your number to your local Driver License office.
The written test covers Kansas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official Kansas Driver's Manual, available free online at the Kansas Department of Revenue website.
You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test, and both happen at the same office location.
The driving test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and tests basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws.
If you fail either test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment, depending on your local office's policy.

Documents You Must Bring to the Driver License Office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document from each of these three categories: proof of identity, proof of Kansas residency, and proof of your Social Security number.

For proof of identity, bring a current U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a state ID from another state. The document must have your photo and signature. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a certified copy of your birth certificate plus one additional document with your name on it (such as a school record, medical record, or utility bill).

For proof of Kansas residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a property tax statement, or a government document showing your current Kansas address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill in your name is the fastest option.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you are explore for a Real ID license, this document is required. For a standard license, you can provide your number verbally if you do not have a document, though bringing one speeds up the process.

How to Pass the Written Test

The written test has 25 questions about Kansas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass. The test is multiple choice, and you take it on a computer at the Driver License office.

Study using the official Kansas Driver's Manual, which is free and available as a PDF on the Kansas Department of Revenue website (sos.kansas.gov). The manual covers everything the test covers: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Read through the entire manual at least once before your test. Many people find it helpful to read it twice, paying extra attention to sections about right-of-way and what different colored signs mean.

When you arrive at the Driver License office, tell the staff member you are ready to take the written test. They will check your documents, take your photo, and direct you to a computer. You will have time to answer all 25 questions. If you do not know an answer, skip it and come back to it. You will see your score when ready after you finish.

Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test

You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test. At some Driver License offices, you can take both tests on the same day. At others, you may need to schedule the driving test for a later date. Ask the staff member after you pass the written test whether you can drive that day or need to book an appointment.

For the driving test, bring the vehicle you will be driving. The vehicle must be in safe working condition: brakes, lights, wipers, and steering must all work. Bring your written test receipt and a valid photo ID. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers such as starting the vehicle, turning, parking, backing up, and stopping. The test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and takes place on public roads near the Driver License office.

You must follow all traffic laws during the test. Common reasons people fail include rolling through stop signs, not using turn signals, speeding, improper lane changes, and hitting the curb while parking. If you fail, you can usually retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment within a few days.

What Happens After You Pass Both Tests

Once you pass the written and driving tests, the Driver License office will issue your license on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address. Your plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

Your Kansas driver's license is valid for six years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person before it expires. The Driver License office will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires.

Finding Your Local Driver License Office and Hours

Kansas has Driver License offices in most counties. To find the office nearest you, visit the Kansas Department of Revenue website and search for "Driver License offices" or call 785-296-3671. The website lists the address, phone number, and hours for each office.

Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check the website before you go, because hours vary by location. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. If your local office requires appointments and they are booked out, you can visit an office in a nearby county.

If You Are Under 18 or a New Kansas Resident

If you are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian sign your process in person at the Driver License office. You will also need to show proof that you have held a learner's permit for at least 14 days before you can take the driving test. A learner's permit is obtained the same way as a license but requires only the written test, not the driving test.

If you are moving to Kansas from another state, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a Kansas license without taking the written or driving tests, as long as your current license is valid. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Kansas residency, and proof of your Social Security number to any Driver License office. The office will issue your Kansas license on the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Kansas driver's license cost?

A standard Kansas driver's license costs $20 and is valid for six years. A Real ID license costs $25. Fees are paid at the Driver License office when you explore. Prices may vary slightly, so call your local office to confirm the current fee.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Kansas Driver's Manual and written test are available in Spanish and several other languages. Tell the staff member at the Driver License office which language you need before you take the test.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. Many offices allow you to schedule another test the same day or within a few days. There is usually a small fee to retake the test. Ask the examiner what you did wrong so you can practice that skill before your next attempt.

Do I need a Real ID license to fly domestically?

Yes, starting in 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID (such as a passport) to board a domestic flight. A standard Kansas driver's license will not be accepted. You can upgrade to a Real ID license at any Driver License office by bringing one additional document proving your Social Security number.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can obtain replacement documents before you go to the Driver License office. A replacement birth certificate comes from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE). A replacement Social Security card comes from the Social Security Administration. A replacement utility bill or bank statement comes from the company that issued it. Plan for extra time if you need to order these documents, as they can take one to two weeks to arrive.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.