Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Kansas driver's license in person at any Driver Licensing office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your address or other information.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of Kansas residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing after your license has expired, you may need to pass a vision test.
For mail renewal, your license must not be expired and you must not have any restrictions or endorsements that require testing. You'll submit your current license, a completed process form (DL 43), and the renewal fee. For online renewal through the Kansas DMV website, similar restrictions explore — your license must be current, and you cannot have certain medical conditions or violations that require an in-person visit.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas allows mail and online renewal only if your license is not expired and you have no active restrictions or endorsements requiring testing.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Licensing office requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security card or number.
- If your license is expired, you must renew in person and may need to pass a vision test depending on how long it has been expired.
- Kansas driver's licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
How long your renewed license lasts and when to start the process
A Kansas driver's license is valid for six years from the date of issue. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your license expires, which gives you plenty of time to choose the method that works best for you. If you wait until after your license expires, you must renew in person.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the Kansas DMV receives your process. Online renewal is faster — you can complete it in minutes, though the physical license will still arrive by mail within one to two weeks. In-person renewal at a Driver Licensing office is when ready if you pass any required vision test; you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your plastic license by mail within two weeks.
Renewal fees and what they cover
The renewal fee for a standard six-year Kansas driver's license is set by the state and varies slightly depending on your age and whether you're renewing before or after expiration. The fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license. You can pay by check, money order, or credit card, depending on which renewal method you choose.
If you renew online or by mail, payment is processed when your process is received. If you renew in person, you pay at the Driver Licensing office. Some offices accept cash, checks, and cards; others may have different payment options, so check with your local office before you go.
Changing your address or other information during renewal
You can update your address, name, or other information on your license during the renewal process. If you're renewing by mail or online, you'll provide the updated information on your process form. If you're renewing in person, bring the documents that support the change — a utility bill or lease for an address change, or a certified name-change document for a name change.
If you've moved to a new address and haven't updated your license yet, you must do so within 30 days of moving. You can update your address without renewing your license by visiting a Driver Licensing office or, in some cases, by mail. Check the Kansas DMV website for the current process, as address-only changes sometimes have different requirements than full renewals.
What happens if your license has been expired for a long time
If your Kansas driver's license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must renew in person at a Driver Licensing office. Depending on how long your license has been expired, you may be required to pass a vision test, and in some cases a written knowledge test, before you receive your new license.
The specific requirements depend on how many years your license has been expired. The Kansas DMV website lists these requirements, or you can call your local Driver Licensing office to find out what you'll need to bring and what tests you may need to take. Bringing all required documents on your first visit will save you time and avoid a second trip.
Driver Licensing office locations and hours
Kansas has Driver Licensing offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, along with current hours and any wait-time information, on the Kansas Department of Revenue website. Some offices operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. During busy times — typically mid-month and before holidays — wait times can be longer, so consider visiting early in the day or on a weekday if possible.
If you live far from an office or have difficulty traveling, check whether your county offers any alternative services. Some counties have satellite offices or mobile licensing units that visit on certain days. The Kansas DMV website will show you all options in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have a suspended or revoked status?
No. You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Kansas DMV. Contact your local Driver Licensing office or the Kansas Department of Revenue to find out what steps are required to clear the suspension or revocation before you can renew.
What if I lost my current license and need to renew?
You cannot renew by mail or online if you don't have your current license. You must go in person to a Driver Licensing office. Bring your proof of residency, Social Security card or number, and any other required documents. The office will issue you a replacement license at the same time.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
Yes. A new photo is taken during in-person renewal. If you renew by mail or online, you'll use your photo from your current license, so a new photo is not taken unless your current license photo is damaged or you request a new one.
Can I renew my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid visa or other immigration status that allows you to drive in Kansas. You'll need to bring your passport, visa, or other immigration document along with your other required documents. The Kansas DMV website lists the specific documents required for non-citizens.
What if my name doesn't match my Social Security card?
Bring a certified copy of the document that shows your legal name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Driver Licensing office will review it and update your record. If your Social Security card hasn't been updated yet, contact the Social Security Administration to update it before or after your license renewal.