Where to get your driver's license in Wichita
The Kansas Department of Revenue, Division of Vehicles issues all driver's licenses in Kansas. In Wichita, you can visit the Sedgwick County office located at 525 North Main Street, Wichita, KS 67203. This is the main location where you can explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle most license-related transactions.
The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. You can also check the Kansas Department of Revenue website for current hours and any temporary closures. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be long during peak hours — typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays.
If you cannot visit in person, Kansas offers some services by mail for renewals, though new licenses and certain changes require an in-person visit. The mail renewal option is available only if your license is not expired and you meet other specific conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The Sedgwick County office at 525 North Main Street in Wichita is where you go for all driver's license services, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of Kansas residency, and your Social Security number to obtain a new license.
- A new driver's license costs $24.50 and is valid for six years; a renewal costs $24.50 and extends your license for another six years.
- If you are under 21, your license will have a vertical format and different restrictions than an adult license.
- You must pass a vision test and written knowledge test for a new license, but renewals do not require retesting unless the state requests it.
Documents you need to bring
Kansas requires three categories of documents for a new driver's license: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.
For proof of identity, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or birth certificate. If you use a birth certificate, you must also bring a second form of ID such as a school ID, work ID, or utility bill with your name on it. For proof of Kansas residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Wichita address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring documentation from the Social Security Administration. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
The testing and approval process
When you explore for a new driver's license in Kansas, you must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test at the Wichita office. The vision test checks that you can see clearly enough to drive safely; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The written test covers Kansas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Kansas Driver's Manual, available free on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.
The written test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day. There is no fee to retake the test. Once you pass both tests, the staff will take your photograph and process your process on the spot.
Your new license is typically issued when ready or within a few days. If there are any issues with your documents or background check, the office will contact you. Renewals do not require retesting unless you have a medical condition or the state has reason to request it.
Costs and license validity
A new driver's license in Kansas costs $24.50 and is valid for six years from the date of issue. A renewal also costs $24.50 and extends your license for another six years. If you are under 21, your license costs the same but has a vertical format and may carry restrictions such as a curfew or passenger limits, depending on your age and driving record.
If you lose your license or it is stolen, a replacement costs $11.00. If you need to change your address without renewing, you can do that by mail for $5.00 or in person at the Wichita office. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at the Sedgwick County office.
Special situations: CDL, endorsements, and restrictions
If you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to drive a truck or bus, the process is more involved. You must pass additional written tests for the type of vehicle you will drive, a pre-trip vehicle inspection test, and a road test. CDL testing is also done at the Sedgwick County office but requires scheduling in advance. Contact the office directly to book a CDL appointment.
You can also add endorsements to your license, such as a motorcycle endorsement or hazmat endorsement. Each endorsement requires passing an additional written test and, for motorcycles, a road test. Endorsements cost $5.00 each and are added to your existing license.
If you have medical conditions that affect your driving, the state may place restrictions on your license, such as corrective lenses required or daylight driving only. These restrictions are noted on your license and must be followed.
Renewing by mail or online
Kansas allows mail renewal for some drivers, but only if your license is not expired and you meet specific conditions. You cannot renew by mail if you are under 21, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your address or name. To renew by mail, contact the Kansas Department of Revenue or visit their website to request a renewal form.
Kansas does not currently offer online renewal for driver's licenses, though the state continues to evaluate digital options. If you cannot visit the Wichita office in person and do not meet the mail renewal criteria, you will need to make a trip to the office.
What to expect on the day you visit
Arrive at the Sedgwick County office with all required documents and plan to spend 30 minutes to two hours depending on how busy the office is. Bring your Social Security number memorized or written down. If you are explore for a new license, wear clothing that will work for your photograph — you cannot wear hats or sunglasses in the photo.
The staff will review your documents, ask you to sign the process, and direct you to the vision and written tests. After you pass, they will take your photograph and process your payment. Your new license will be ready when ready or mailed to you within a few days. If you are renewing, the process is faster and may not require testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has already expired?
No, you cannot renew an expired license by mail. You must visit the Sedgwick County office in person and explore for a new license, which includes retaking the vision and written tests. If your license has been expired for more than a certain period, additional requirements may explore.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or a tax return showing your Social Security number. The Wichita office will accept these as proof of your number. You can also contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before your appointment.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Sedgwick County office?
Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment through the Kansas Department of Revenue website to reduce wait time. Appointments are recommended during busy seasons or if you have a complex transaction.
How long does it take to receive my license if it is mailed?
If your license is mailed, it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it sooner, ask the office staff if you can pick it up in person once it is ready.
Can I get a Real ID-compliant license in Wichita?
Yes, Kansas issues Real ID-compliant licenses at the Sedgwick County office. A Real ID license requires the same documents as a standard license and costs the same. It is marked with a gold star and can be used for federal purposes such as air travel and entry to federal buildings.