Where to go for your driver's license in Junction City
The Kansas Department of Revenue's Driver Licensing Bureau handles all driver's licenses in the state. In Junction City, you'll visit the local office to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or make changes to your current license. The Junction City office is located at 1109 West 6th Street, Junction City, KS 66441.
You can walk in during business hours without an appointment, though wait times vary depending on the day and time. The office is typically less crowded early in the morning on weekdays. If you prefer to know the current wait time before you go, you can call ahead at the local office number, though the main Kansas Driver Licensing Bureau phone line (785-296-3671) can also direct you to the Junction City location.
Before you go, check whether you need to bring anything specific to your situation — the requirements differ depending on whether you're getting your first license, renewing, or updating information.
Key Takeaways
- The Junction City Driver Licensing office is at 1109 West 6th Street and accepts walk-ins during business hours without an appointment.
- You'll need a valid form of identification, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to get or renew a license.
- A standard Kansas driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card.
- Renewal by mail is an option if your license is not expired and you have no changes to make, which can save you a trip to the office.
- If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian present and must complete a driver's education course before you can take the test.
Documents you need to bring
Kansas requires specific documents no matter which service you're seeking. You must bring one form of primary identification — a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID all work. If you don't have one of those, you can use two secondary forms of ID instead, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or school ID.
You also need proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the simplest option, but a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 will work if you don't have the card itself. Finally, bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will satisfy this requirement.
If you're renewing and your address hasn't changed, you can sometimes skip the address proof, but bringing it anyway prevents delays. If you're changing your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.
Getting a license for the first time
If you've never had a Kansas driver's license, you'll need to pass both a written test and a driving test. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Kansas Driver's Manual, which is free and available online at the Kansas Department of Revenue website or in print at the Junction City office.
After you pass the written test, you'll receive a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You must hold the learner's permit for a minimum of 14 days before you can take the driving test. The driving test happens at the same office and tests your ability to handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.
If you're under 18, you must complete a state-approved driver's education course before you can take either test. The course can be taken online or in person through various providers in the Junction City area. Bring proof of completion when you come to the office.
Renewing your current license
If your license is still valid and you have no changes to make, you can renew by mail without visiting the office. The Kansas Department of Revenue will send you a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice, include the required fee, and mail everything back in the provided envelope.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the office receives your materials. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail and must visit the office in person to take a new written test and have your photo taken.
If you're renewing in person at the Junction City office, bring your current license along with the documents listed above. The process is faster than getting a first license because you won't need to take any tests — just provide your documents, have your photo taken, and pay the fee.
Fees and payment methods
A standard four-year Kansas driver's license costs $20. If you want an eight-year license, the cost is $40. These prices are set by the state and do not vary by location. You can pay with cash, check, or debit or credit card at the Junction City office.
If you're renewing by mail, include a check or money order with your process — the office does not accept card payments through the mail. Do not send cash through the mail.
If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, the replacement fee is the same as a renewal. If you're changing your name or address on an existing license, there is no additional fee — you only pay if you're renewing or replacing.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive at the Junction City office, check in at the front desk and let staff know what service you need. If you're getting a first license, you may be directed to study materials or a testing area. If you're renewing, you'll go through the photo and document verification process.
The entire visit usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is and what service you need. Have all your documents organized and ready to hand over when asked. Staff will verify your information, take your photo, process your payment, and issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few days.
If you fail the written or driving test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake a test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online?
Kansas does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You can renew by mail if your license is still valid and you have no changes to make, or you can visit the Junction City office in person. Mail renewal is the closest option to online renewal.
What if I lost my license and need a replacement quickly?
Visit the Junction City office in person with your documents and payment. Replacements are processed the same day, and you'll receive your new license before you leave. There is no expedited mail option, so in-person is the fastest route.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Junction City office?
No, the office accepts walk-ins during all business hours. You can call ahead to ask about current wait times, but an appointment is not required or available.
What happens if I move out of Junction City?
You can update your address at any Kansas Driver Licensing office, or by mail if you're only changing your address and not renewing your license. You do not need to get a new license just because you moved — your current license remains valid until its expiration date.
Can I get a Real ID at the Junction City office?
Yes. A Real ID is a federal security standard that allows you to use your driver's license for air travel and entry to federal buildings. It costs the same as a standard license and requires the same documents, plus proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport). Ask for a Real ID when you visit the office.