How to Renew Your Kansas Driver's License

What you need to do to renew your Kansas driver's license

Kansas lets you renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a local driver's license office. Which method you can use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need to update your photo. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some situations require you to show up in person.

Your Kansas driver's license is valid for six years from the date it was issued. You can start the renewal process up to one year before your license expires. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a driver's license office.

Key Takeaways

You can renew online through the Kansas Department of Revenue website if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo.
Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and costs less than in-person renewal, but you cannot update your photo by mail.
In-person renewal at a driver's license office is required if your license has expired, you need a new photo, or your name has changed.
You will need your current Kansas driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online or by mail.
The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license and whether you choose a standard or REAL ID license.

Renewing online through the Kansas Department of Revenue

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You go to the Kansas Department of Revenue website, enter your driver's license number and other personal information, review the information on file, and pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. The whole process takes about 15 minutes. Your new license arrives in the mail within seven to ten business days.

You can only renew online if your current license is still valid, you do not need to change your photo, your name has not changed since your last license was issued, and you have not had any medical suspensions or restrictions added to your record. If any of these do not explore to you, you will need to use mail renewal or go to a driver's license office in person.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is an option if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. You request a renewal form from the Kansas Department of Revenue, fill it out, and mail it back with your current license and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Processing takes about two to three weeks from the time the office receives your envelope.

The main drawback of mail renewal is that you cannot update your photo. If your photo is outdated or you want a new one, you must renew in person. Mail renewal also takes longer than online renewal, so if your license expires soon, online is faster.

Renewing in person at a driver's license office

You must renew in person if your license has expired, you need a new photo, your name has changed, you have had a medical suspension, or you want to upgrade to a REAL ID license. Bring your current Kansas driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). You will also need to bring payment for the renewal fee.

When you arrive at the office, you check in, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. The new license is usually mailed to you within seven to ten business days. Some offices are busier than others, so wait times vary. You can find your nearest driver's license office and check current wait times on the Kansas Department of Revenue website.

Understanding the renewal fee and license types

The renewal fee depends on the type of license you hold and whether you choose a standard license or a REAL ID license. A standard Kansas driver's license costs less than a REAL ID license. REAL ID is a federal standard that makes your license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If you already have a REAL ID license, you can keep it when you renew, or you can downgrade to a standard license if you prefer.

Payment methods vary by renewal type. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices, though some may have different payment options. Check with your local office if you are unsure.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

If your license expires before your new one arrives, you cannot legally drive. You must renew in person at a driver's license office. Bring your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment for the renewal fee. The office will issue you a temporary paper license that is valid while you wait for your permanent license to arrive in the mail.

Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic ticket and fine, even if you have already started the renewal process. If you are close to your expiration date, online renewal is the fastest way to avoid this problem.

Changing your address or name during renewal

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you can update your address during renewal. Online and mail renewal both allow you to change your address without visiting an office. If you are renewing online, you enter your new address on the website. If you are renewing by mail, you write your new address on the renewal form.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, you must renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment for the renewal fee. The office will issue a new license with your updated name.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Kansas driver's license before it expires?

Yes. You can start the renewal process up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you want to avoid the rush close to your expiration date or if you are planning to travel and want to make sure your license arrives before you leave.

What if I lost my current driver's license?

You cannot renew by mail or online if you do not have your current license. You must go to a driver's license office in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment for the replacement fee.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online renewal takes seven to ten business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the office receives your envelope. In-person renewal also takes seven to ten business days for the license to arrive by mail, though you receive a temporary paper license on the day you visit the office.

Do I need a REAL ID license to renew?

No. You can renew as a standard driver's license. However, starting in May 2025, a standard driver's license will not be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to federal buildings. If you plan to fly or visit federal facilities, you may want to upgrade to REAL ID during your renewal.

What if my renewal is rejected?

If you renew online or by mail and your renewal is rejected, the Kansas Department of Revenue will mail you a notice explaining why. Common reasons include a name mismatch, an invalid Social Security number, or a medical suspension on your record. Follow the instructions in the notice, which usually direct you to visit a driver's license office in person to complete your renewal.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.