What You Need to Do to Get Your Kansas License Back
To reinstate a suspended license in Kansas, you must first find out why it was suspended, then complete the specific steps the Kansas Department of Revenue requires for that reason. The most common causes are unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, DUI conviction, or accumulating too many points. Each has a different reinstatement path. You cannot straightforward renew your license — you must formally request reinstatement through the department, and you may need to pay fees, provide proof of insurance, or complete a course before the state will restore your driving privileges.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver's License Bureau to learn the exact reason your license was suspended and what steps are required to fix it.
- Most suspensions require you to pay outstanding fines, court costs, or reinstatement fees before the department will restore your license.
- DUI-related suspensions require an ignition interlock device or completion of a substance abuse program before reinstatement is possible.
- You must request reinstatement in writing or in person; the state does not automatically restore your license when the suspension period ends.
- Processing time for reinstatement typically takes one to two weeks after the department receives your completed request and fees.
Finding Out Why Your License Was Suspended
Your first step is to contact the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver's License Bureau directly. Call 785-296-3671 or visit a local driver's license office in person with your name, date of birth, and driver's license number. The staff will tell you the specific reason for the suspension and what you must do to resolve it. Do not assume you know why — the suspension may be for a reason you did not expect, and the reinstatement steps depend entirely on the cause.
You can also check your status online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website, though the online system may not show all details. A phone call or in-person visit is faster and gives you a chance to ask questions about the exact steps you need to take.
Suspensions for Unpaid Fines or Court Costs
If your license was suspended because of unpaid traffic fines, court costs, or failure to appear in court, you must pay what you owe before reinstatement. Contact the court that issued the ticket or the traffic violations bureau in the county where the violation occurred. Ask for the exact amount owed, including any late fees or collection costs that may have been added.
Once you have paid in full, ask the court or violations bureau for written proof of payment. Bring this proof to the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver's License Bureau, along with the reinstatement fee (currently $25 for a suspension reinstatement, though fees can change). The department will process your reinstatement once they confirm payment and receive the fee.
DUI and Substance Abuse-Related Suspensions
A suspension following a DUI conviction or refusal to take a breath test has stricter requirements. Kansas requires you to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you plan to drive. This device prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. You must have the device installed by a certified vendor before you can request reinstatement.
You may also be required to complete a substance abuse evaluation and any recommended treatment or education program. The court or the Kansas Department of Revenue will specify which programs are approved. Once you have the interlock device installed and any required programs completed, bring proof of both to the driver's license office along with the reinstatement fee. Processing typically takes one to two weeks.
Point Suspensions and Administrative Suspensions
Kansas suspends licenses when a driver accumulates too many points within a certain time period. A first suspension for points typically lasts 30 days; a second suspension lasts 60 days; a third or later suspension lasts one year. You cannot drive during the suspension period, even with a restricted license.
Once the suspension period has ended, you must request reinstatement in writing or in person at a driver's license office. Bring your driver's license (if you still have it) and proof of identity. There is no additional fee for a point-based reinstatement, but processing takes about one week. If you accumulate points again after reinstatement, you risk another suspension.
Submitting Your Reinstatement Request
You can request reinstatement by visiting a Kansas driver's license office in person or by mail. For in-person reinstatement, bring your driver's license, proof of identity, proof that you have met all requirements (paid fines, installed interlock, completed programs), and the reinstatement fee if one applies. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted.
If you mail your request, send it to the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver's License Bureau with the same documents. Include a letter stating that you are requesting reinstatement and listing the reason your license was suspended. Mail to: Kansas Department of Revenue, Driver's License Bureau, 915 SW Harrison Street, Topeka, KS 66612. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person requests, typically two to three weeks.
What Happens After You Request Reinstatement
Once the department receives your complete reinstatement request and all required documents and fees, a staff member will review your file to confirm you have met all conditions. If everything is in order, your license will be reinstated and you will receive written confirmation. If documents are missing or incomplete, the department will contact you to ask for what is needed.
Your reinstated license will have the same expiration date as your original license had before suspension. You do not need to take a new written or driving test unless the department specifically requires one (which is rare for reinstatement). Once reinstated, you can drive legally again, though any restrictions (such as an ignition interlock requirement) remain in effect for the time period the court or department specified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a suspended license if I have a work permit?
Kansas does not issue work permits or hardship licenses for most suspensions. If your license is suspended for DUI, you may be able to request a limited license that allows you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments, but you must request this separately from reinstatement and meet specific conditions. Contact the driver's license office to ask whether a limited license is available for your type of suspension.
How much does reinstatement cost?
The reinstatement fee is $25 for most suspensions. However, you may also owe court costs, fines, or fees to the ignition interlock vendor. The total cost depends on why your license was suspended. Call the Kansas Department of Revenue at 785-296-3671 to learn the exact amount you owe.
What if I move out of Kansas while my license is suspended?
You must still complete Kansas reinstatement requirements even if you no longer live in the state. You can mail your reinstatement request and documents to the Kansas Department of Revenue. If you plan to move to another state permanently, contact that state's driver's license agency about reciprocal agreements or whether you can transfer your Kansas reinstatement to a license in your new state.
How long does reinstatement take?
In-person reinstatement at a driver's license office typically takes one to two weeks from the date you submit your complete request. Mail-in requests take two to three weeks. The timeline depends on how busy the office is and whether all your documents are complete. If documents are missing, processing stops until you provide them.
Do I have to take a driving test again after reinstatement?
No, you do not need to retake the written or driving test for a standard reinstatement. However, if your license was suspended for multiple violations or if the department determines you need a retest, they will notify you. This is uncommon for reinstatement requests.