Sunflower State Driver: Your Complete Guide to Getting a Kansas Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Sunflower State is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the vibrant city life of Wichita to the wide-open spaces of the Flint Hills. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR), Division of Vehicles.

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Kansas's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the driver's license station confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Ages 14-17): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Kansas has a GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: The Learner's Permit

This is the very first stage, allowing a new driver to learn and practice on the road with a supervising adult.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 14 years old.

How to get your Learner's Permit:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the driver's license station, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security number, and two proofs of Kansas residency.
2. Visit a Driver's License Station: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to provide written consent.
   • Pay the required permit and testing fees.
   • Pass a vision screening.
3. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a 25-question written test based on the "Kansas Driver's Handbook." You must answer at least 20 questions correctly (an 80% score) to pass.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's Permit:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of one year before you can apply for a restricted license.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and is seated in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 25 hours of supervised driving. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 2: The Restricted Driver's License (Ages 15-16)

After holding your permit for a year and logging your practice hours, you are eligible for a restricted license, provided you have also completed a state-approved driver education course.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years old, but younger than 16.
• You must have held your learner's permit for at least one year.
• You must have completed driver's education and your 25 hours of supervised driving.

How to get your Restricted License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). Once you pass, you will be issued your restricted license.

GDL Restrictions on a Restricted License (Age 15):

• You may drive unsupervised only to or from work or school via the most direct route.
• For any other driving, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat.

Step 3: The Less-Restricted License (Age 16)

At age 16, a driver can obtain a license with fewer restrictions.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You must have held a permit for at least one year and have logged 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night.

Restrictions on a Less-Restricted License (Age 16):

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless driving to or from work or school.
• Passenger Restrictions: You are not permitted to have more than one non-sibling passenger under the age of 21.

These restrictions are lifted when you turn 17, provided you have maintained a clean driving record.

For Drivers 17 and Over

If you are 17 or older and applying for your first Kansas license, the process is more direct.

1. Visit a Driver's License Station: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a Real ID.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner's permit.
3. Take the Road Test: Once you feel competent enough to pass the driving test, you can schedule it.
4. Pay the Fee and Get Your License: Once all tests are passed and documents are verified, you'll pay the licensing fee and receive your full driver's license.

New to Kansas? Transferring Your License

If you move to Kansas and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Kansas license within 90 days of establishing residency.

• Make an appointment at a driver's license station.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a Real ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired, and you are 25 or older. Younger drivers may be required to test.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Sunflower State.