What You Need to Do to Reinstate Your License
To reinstate a suspended Kansas driver's license, you must first contact the Kansas Department of Revenue's Driver Control Bureau to find out why your license was suspended and what specific steps are required. Most suspensions fall into one of three categories: unpaid traffic fines or court costs, failure to appear in court, or violations related to alcohol or drugs. Each category has different reinstatement requirements, and you cannot move forward until you know which one applies to you.
Once you know the reason, you will need to resolve the underlying issue — paying fines, appearing in court, or completing a substance abuse program — before the state will consider your reinstatement. After that is done, you submit a reinstatement request to the Driver Control Bureau along with proof that you have resolved the problem. The state then processes your request, and if approved, your driving privileges are restored.
Key Takeaways
- Call the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver Control Bureau at 785-296-3671 to learn the specific reason your license was suspended and what you must do to fix it.
- Most suspensions require you to pay outstanding fines and court costs, appear in court, or complete a substance abuse program before reinstatement is possible.
- You must resolve the underlying issue first, then submit a reinstatement request with proof to the Driver Control Bureau by mail or in person.
- Reinstatement typically takes two to four weeks after the Driver Control Bureau receives your completed request and all required documents.
- Some suspensions carry a reinstatement fee of $100 to $200, depending on the reason for suspension.
Contact the Driver Control Bureau to Find Out Why Your License Was Suspended
Your first step is to call the Kansas Department of Revenue Driver Control Bureau at 785-296-3671. Have your driver's license number and date of birth ready. The staff member will tell you the exact reason your license was suspended and what you must do to resolve it. This call is essential because the reinstatement process differs significantly depending on whether your suspension is related to unpaid fines, a failure to appear in court, or a substance abuse violation.
If you prefer not to call, you can visit the Driver Control Bureau in person at 915 SW Harrison Street, Topeka, Kansas 66612, during business hours. You can also mail a written request to the same address asking for the reason and requirements for reinstatement. Keep in mind that phone or in-person contact is faster — a mailed request may take one to two weeks for a response.
Resolve the Issue That Caused Your Suspension
If your suspension is due to unpaid traffic fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed. Contact the court that issued the ticket or fine to confirm the exact amount and payment methods. Many Kansas courts accept payment by phone, online, or in person. Once you have paid, ask the court for written confirmation of payment — you will need this when you request reinstatement.
If your suspension resulted from failure to appear in court, you must appear before the judge to resolve the underlying case. Contact the court listed on your suspension notice to reschedule your appearance. The judge may impose additional fines or penalties for missing your original court date, but once you appear and the case is resolved, you can proceed with reinstatement.
If your suspension is alcohol or drug-related, you may be required to complete a substance abuse program or evaluation. The Driver Control Bureau will tell you which program Kansas recognizes and where you can find one. You must complete the program and obtain a certificate of completion before you can request reinstatement. This requirement typically takes four to twelve weeks depending on the program.
Submit Your Reinstatement Request to the Driver Control Bureau
Once you have resolved the underlying issue, prepare your reinstatement request. You can submit it by mail to the Driver Control Bureau at 915 SW Harrison Street, Topeka, Kansas 66612, or in person at the same address. Include a letter stating that you are requesting reinstatement, your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and the reason your license was suspended.
Attach proof that you have resolved the issue. If you paid fines, include the court's written confirmation of payment. If you appeared in court, include documentation from the court showing the case was resolved. If you completed a substance abuse program, include your certificate of completion. Without this proof, the Driver Control Bureau will not process your request.
Some suspensions carry a reinstatement fee. The amount varies — typically $100 to $200 — depending on the reason for suspension. The Driver Control Bureau will tell you the fee amount when you call. You can pay the fee by check or money order included with your mailed request, or by cash or card if you submit your request in person.
What Happens After You Submit Your Request
After the Driver Control Bureau receives your completed reinstatement request with all required documents and fees, they will review your file. This review typically takes two to four weeks. During this time, the state verifies that you have resolved the underlying issue and that no new violations have occurred.
If your request is approved, the Driver Control Bureau will send you written notice that your driving privileges have been restored. Your physical license will still be valid — you do not need to obtain a new one unless it has expired or been damaged. You can then legally drive in Kansas when ready upon receiving the approval notice.
If your request is denied, the Driver Control Bureau will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons for denial include incomplete documentation, failure to pay the full amount owed, or a new violation that occurred while your license was suspended. The letter will explain what additional steps you need to take before you can resubmit your request.
Reinstatement by Mail Versus In Person
Submitting your reinstatement request by mail is the most common method. Mail your letter, proof of resolution, and any fees to the Driver Control Bureau at 915 SW Harrison Street, Topeka, Kansas 66612. Include your return address and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. Processing time is typically two to four weeks from the date the bureau receives your request.
Submitting in person at the Driver Control Bureau office allows you to hand over your documents directly and ask questions on the spot. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time. If you go in person, bring your original documents or certified copies, as the bureau may not accept photocopies. In-person submission does not speed up the review process, but it does eliminate mail delays and gives you when ready confirmation that your request was received.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being reviewed?
No. Your license remains suspended until the Driver Control Bureau sends you written approval. Driving with a suspended license is illegal in Kansas and can result in additional fines and criminal charges. Wait for the approval notice before you drive.
What if I cannot pay my fines all at once?
Contact the court that issued the fine and ask about a payment plan. Many Kansas courts will work with you to set up installments. Once you have a payment plan in place, ask the court for written confirmation, and include that with your reinstatement request. The Driver Control Bureau may reinstate your license while you are paying under the plan.
How long does a substance abuse program take?
The length varies depending on the program and the severity of the violation. Most programs take four to twelve weeks to complete. The Driver Control Bureau will direct you to a recognized program and can tell you the typical timeline. You cannot request reinstatement until you have completed the program and received your certificate.
Do I need a lawyer to reinstate my license?
No. The reinstatement process is straightforward and does not require legal representation. You can handle it yourself by calling the Driver Control Bureau, resolving the underlying issue, and submitting your request with proof. If your case involves court appearances or complex legal issues, you may want to consult a lawyer, but reinstatement itself is a administrative process you can complete on your own.
What if my license was suspended for multiple reasons?
You must resolve all issues before reinstatement. Call the Driver Control Bureau and ask them to list every reason your license was suspended. Then address each one — pay all fines, appear in court for all cases, and complete any required programs. Submit your reinstatement request with proof that all issues have been resolved.