Where to renew your license in Johnson County
Johnson County residents renew their driver's licenses at the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver Licensing Bureau. The main office is located in Olathe at 915 S Kansas Avenue, and it handles renewals by appointment and walk-in. You can also renew at satellite locations in Overland Park, Lenexa, and Shawnee — each office keeps different hours, so check the Kansas Department of Revenue website for the location nearest you and its current schedule.
You do not have to renew in person if your license is not expiring within 60 days and you meet certain conditions. Kansas allows online renewal through the Kansas Department of Revenue website if your license is still valid, you have not had a name change since your last renewal, and you do not need a new photo. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes a few minutes from home.
Key Takeaways
- Johnson County residents renew at the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver Licensing Bureau in Olathe, or at satellite offices in Overland Park, Lenexa, or Shawnee.
- You can renew online if your current license is still valid, you have not changed your name, and you do not need a new photo.
- In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of residency, and payment; bring originals or certified copies, not photos.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you renew in person, or within 5 to 7 business days after online renewal.
- If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
Documents you need to bring in person
Bring your current Kansas driver's license or ID card. If you do not have it, bring a valid passport or passport card instead. You will also need one document that proves your current address in Johnson County — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Bring the original or a certified copy; a photo or photocopy is not accepted.
If your name has changed since your last renewal, bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The document must be an original or certified copy. You will also need to bring payment — Kansas accepts cash, debit card, or credit card at all offices.
Cost and how long it takes
An in-person renewal costs $96 for an eight-year license if you are 21 or older. Online renewal costs $76 for the same eight-year term. Both prices include the license itself and a duplicate copy mailed to you. If you need your license faster than the standard mail time, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though availability varies by location.
After you renew in person, your new license is mailed to the address you provide. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal is faster — your new license arrives within 5 to 7 business days. During that time, your current license remains valid, so you can continue to drive and use it as ID.
When you must renew in person instead of online
You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than one year. You also cannot renew online if you have had a name change, a vision correction change, or if you need a new photo. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must renew in person — online renewal is only for regular driver's licenses and ID cards.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you must renew in person and may be required to retake the written test or driving test depending on why it was suspended. Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue before you go to the office to find out what you need to bring.
How to make an appointment or walk in
You can schedule an appointment online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website, or call the Olathe office at (785) 296-3671 to book a time. Appointments usually have shorter wait times than walk-ins, especially during busy seasons like summer and early fall. Walk-ins are accepted at all locations during posted hours, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the office is that day.
If you choose to walk in, arrive early in the day — offices tend to be less crowded in the morning. Bring all your documents with you; if you are missing anything, the office will not process your renewal and you will have to return another time.
What happens if your license expires before you renew
If your license expires before your new one arrives, you can still drive legally while you wait for the mail. Kansas considers your license valid for 60 days after the expiration date printed on it, as long as you have already renewed and are waiting for the new card. You should carry proof that you renewed — your receipt from the office or a confirmation email if you renewed online.
If you did not renew before your license expired and you are now more than 60 days past the expiration date, you cannot drive legally. You must renew in person at that point, and you may be required to retake the written test. To avoid this, renew at least 30 days before your expiration date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail?
No, Kansas does not offer mail-in renewal. You can renew online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website, or you must go in person to an office in Johnson County. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are not changing your photo or name.
What if I moved to Johnson County after my last renewal?
You can renew your license at a Johnson County office and update your address at the same time. Bring proof of your new address in Johnson County — a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days — along with your current license and payment. Your new license will show your updated address.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
A new photo is not required unless your current license photo is damaged or you want a new one. If you do not need a new photo, you can renew online and save money. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a Johnson County office.
What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?
You can renew and replace your lost license in one visit. Bring your proof of residency and payment to any Johnson County office. The cost is the same as a regular renewal. You will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I renew early, before my license expires?
Yes, you can renew up to one year before your license expires. Renewing early does not change the expiration date of your new license — it will still be eight years from the date you renew. There is no advantage to renewing very early, but you can do it if you prefer.