Permit vs. Driver’s License in Kansas

1. What is the difference between a driver’s license and a permit in Kansas?


A driver’s license in Kansas is a legally recognized document that authorizes an individual to operate motor vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and other motor vehicles, on public roads. A permit is a temporary license granted to a new driver that allows him or her to drive under the supervision of an experienced driver. A permit does not confer full driving privileges and is revoked after a certain period of time.

2. How old must a person be to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In Kansas, you must be at least 16 years old to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

3. What documents are required to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas, applicants will need to provide proof of their identity (i.e. birth certificate, passport, etc.), proof of their Social Security number (i.e. Social Security card, W-2 form, etc.), two proofs of current Kansas residency (i.e. utility bills in the applicant’s name, rental agreement, etc.), a completed application for a driver’s license/permit, and payment for all applicable fees. Applicants will also need to successfully pass a vision screening and written knowledge test.

4. Is a permit required to drive in Kansas?


No, generally a permit is not required to drive in Kansas. However, there are certain circumstances that require a permit, such as for commercial drivers or if you are under the age of 18 and have not yet obtained your driver’s license.

5. How long is a driver’s license valid for in Kansas?


In Kansas, a driver’s license is valid for 4 years.

6. How long does it take to get a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In Kansas, it generally takes between two and six weeks to get a driver’s license or permit. The exact time frame depends on the individual applying for the license or permit, as processing times can vary due to the volume of applications.

7. What tests must be passed to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas, applicants must pass the following tests:
1. Vision Test
2. Knowledge Test
3. Road Sign Test
4. Road Skills Test

8. What restrictions are placed on holders of a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In Kansas, drivers under the age of 18 must complete a driver’s education course prior to applying for a driver’s license or permit. A parent or legal guardian must sign the application for those under 18.

All drivers must abide by the posted speed limits and other traffic laws. Seat belts must be worn at all times and no passengers are allowed unless supervised by a responsible adult. All drivers are prohibited from texting and driving, operating any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other intoxicant. As per Kansas state law, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance.

9. What are the fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


The fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Kansas are as follows:

– For a Kansas driver’s license or learner’s permit, the fee is $36.50.

– For a Kansas identification card, the fee is $25.00.

– For a Kansas commercial driver’s license (CDL), the fee is $36.50.

– For a Kansas motorcycle license, the fee is $20.00.

– For a Kansas motorcycle endorsement, the fee is $7.00.

– For a Kansas driver’s license renewal, the fee is $24.50.

– For a Kansas identification card renewal, the fee is $15.00.

10. Are there any additional requirements to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Kansas for certain age groups?


Yes. Depending on the age of the driver, there are additional requirements for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Kansas.

For applicants under 18 years old, they must hold an instruction permit for at least one year prior to applying for a driver’s license. Additionally, they must have at least 40 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours of night driving.

For applicants aged 16 and 17, they must complete a driver education course approved by the Kansas Department of Education.

For applicants over 18 years old, they must pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening test.

11. Is there an age limit for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


Yes. In Kansas, you must be at least 16 years old to obtain a learner’s permit or driver’s license.

12. Are any special privileges given to holders of a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


Yes, holders of a driver’s license or permit in Kansas are eligible to receive reduced fees for vehicle registration and title transfers. In addition, holders of a driver’s license or permit in Kansas are eligible to apply for a special license plate for their vehicle.

13. What is the process for renewing a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


To renew a driver’s license or permit in Kansas, an individual must first make an appointment online with the Kansas Department of Revenue at www.ksrevenue.org/dovapptsched.html. Once an appointment is made, the individual must present all the necessary documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and Kansas residency. Payment for the renewal fee will be required as well. After these steps are completed, a new license or permit will be issued.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


Yes, there are several restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Kansas. Drivers under the age of 18 must complete a driver’s education course, and must have a supervised driving period of at least six months before they can obtain an unrestricted license. Drivers under the age of 21 must have no alcohol-related convictions and no more than two moving violations or at-fault accidents within a two-year period before obtaining an unrestricted license. All drivers must also pass a vision and knowledge test, and may be subject to additional restrictions depending on medical or physical conditions.

15. Are there any additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


No, there are no additional tests required to renew a driver’s license or permit in Kansas.

16. What are the penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Kansas?


In Kansas, the penalty for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit is a fine of up to $500. Additionally, the driver can face up to 30 days in jail. The driver’s vehicle may also be impounded.

17. Is there an age requirement for obtaining an instruction permit in Kansas ?


Yes, applicants for an instruction permit in Kansas must be at least 15 years old.

18. Are there any special considerations given to holders of an instruction permit in Kansas ?


Yes. Holders of an instruction permit in Kansas are allowed to drive alone between the hours of 5 AM and 9 PM, but must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and seated in the front seat while driving outside of this time frame.

19. Can holders of an instruction permit drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in Kansas ?


No, holders of an instruction permit in Kansas are only allowed to drive within Kansas.

20. Are there any restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in Kansas ?


Yes, drivers under the age of 18 with an instruction permit have the following restrictions:

1. Must be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years of age or older who is occupying a seat beside the driver.

2. May not drive between 12:00 midnight and 5:00 am.

3. Passengers are limited to one person in the front seat and the number of safety belts in the vehicle.