Getting a Kansas Driver's License in Derby

To get a Kansas driver's license in Derby, you will visit the Derby Driver's License office, bring the required documents, pass a written test and vision screening, and have your photo taken. The whole process typically takes one to two hours. Derby's office is located at 611 North Broadway and handles standard licenses, renewals, and replacements for residents in the Derby area.

You do not need to make an appointment — the office operates on a walk-in basis during posted hours. However, arriving early in the day or mid-week usually means shorter wait times. The office is closed on Sundays and major holidays.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Kansas residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or card to the Derby office.
  • You will take a written test covering Kansas traffic laws and road signs, and a vision screening to may support you can see well enough to drive safely.
  • The fee for a standard four-year Kansas driver's license is $20, and payment is cash or card.
  • Your license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the tests and photo is taken.
  • If you already hold a valid license from another state, Kansas may waive the written test, but you will still need to pass the vision screening.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring one form of proof of identity. This can be a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, military ID, or tribal ID. A school ID or work ID alone will not work. If your birth certificate is not certified (raised seal), the office will not accept it.

Bring one form of proof of Kansas residency. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Derby address works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Bring your Social Security number or card. If you do not have a card, you can provide the number if you know it. If you do not have a number at all, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Kansas license.

If you are renewing or replacing a license, bring your current or expired Kansas license if you have it. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change.

The Written Test and Vision Screening

The written test covers Kansas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will answer 25 multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper form. You must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

The office provides study materials and practice tests on the Kansas Department of Revenue website before you visit. Reading the Kansas Driver's Handbook is the most direct way to prepare. Many people pass on their first attempt if they study for 30 minutes to an hour beforehand.

After the written test, you will take a vision screening. An employee will check your eyesight using a machine or chart. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot receive a license until you see an eye doctor and return with a corrected vision certificate.

Photo and License Issuance

Once you pass both tests, you will have your photo taken. Wear something you are comfortable in — the photo will appear on your license for four years. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or head covering unless for religious reasons, and your face must be clearly visible.

After your photo is taken, you will pay the fee and receive a receipt. Your temporary paper license will be printed when ready and is valid for driving while you wait for your permanent card. Your actual plastic license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Check the address on your receipt to make sure it is correct, because the license will be mailed there.

Fees and Payment Methods

A standard four-year Kansas driver's license costs $20. If you are 65 or older, a four-year license costs $10. The Derby office accepts cash and card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express). There are no additional fees for the written test or vision screening.

If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, the fee is the same as a new license. If you are renewing early or changing your address without renewing, fees may differ — ask the staff when you arrive.

If You Hold a License from Another State

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, Kansas may waive the written test. However, you will still need to pass the vision screening and have a new photo taken. Bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents.

The office staff will review your out-of-state license and tell you whether the written test is waived. If it is waived, you can move directly to the vision screening and photo. The fee and timeline remain the same.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you may be required to take the written test. Ask the staff before you pay the fee.

Hours and Location

The Derby Driver's License office is located at 611 North Broadway, Derby, Kansas. Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a lunch break from noon to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and state holidays.

Wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday is usually faster than late afternoon or Friday. During the first and last weeks of the month, the office tends to be busier. There is no online appointment system, so arriving early gives you the best chance of a short wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. You must take the written test in person at the Derby office. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study practice tests online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website before you visit.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no additional fee for retaking the test. Most people pass on the second attempt after reviewing the material they missed.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or is the number enough?

Either the card or the number works. If you know your number, you do not have to carry the card. If you do not know your number and do not have the card, you will need to explore for a Social Security number first through the Social Security Administration.

How long is a Kansas driver's license valid?

A standard Kansas driver's license is valid for four years from the date it is issued. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before it expires. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at the Derby office.

What if I move after I get my license?

You do not have to update your license when ready, but you should notify the Kansas Department of Revenue of your address change. You can do this online or by visiting the Derby office. Your license remains valid until it expires, even if your address is outdated.