Kansas has specific rules for seniors renewing their driver’s licenses, aiming to ensure both safety and convenience. Here’s what older drivers and their families should understand about the process and requirements.
How Often Do Seniors Need to Renew?
- Drivers aged 65 and older must renew their Kansas driver’s license every four years.
- Those under 65 renew every six years, but the four-year cycle applies once you turn 65.
In-Person Renewal Requirement
- Seniors age 65 and up are required to renew their license in person at a Kansas driver’s license office or county treasurer location that offers renewal services.
- Online renewal is not available for seniors; mail renewal is limited to certain situations, such as military service or being a student out of state.
Documents You’ll Need
When renewing, seniors must bring:
- Proof of identity (such as your current or expiring driver’s license)
- Social Security number
- Proof of Kansas residency and principal residence address (the renewal card you receive in the mail may suffice if it shows your principal address).
Vision Test Requirement
- A vision test is mandatory at each renewal for seniors.
- This can be done at the DMV office for free, or you may have an outside ophthalmologist or optometrist complete a Vision Form within 90 days of your renewal request.
Written and Road Tests
- A written test is generally not required for seniors at renewal.
- A road test is only necessary if there are concerns about your driving ability, such as reports of impairment or medical issues.
Possible License Restrictions
To ensure safety, the DMV or a doctor may add specific restrictions to a senior’s license, including:
- Requirement to wear corrective lenses
- Daylight-only driving
- No interstate driving
- Driving limited to a certain area or distance
- Use of special equipment or vehicle modifications.
Fees for Seniors
- The standard fee for a four-year Class C license for drivers 65 and older is $25, which includes the license, photo, and county fees.
- Fees may vary depending on the type of license (motorcycle, commercial, etc.).
Renewal Process Steps
- Receive a renewal notice in the mail (if you do not, you can still renew in person).
- Gather required documents.
- Go to a full-service driver’s license office or participating county treasurer location.
- Pass the vision test.
- Pay the applicable fee.
- Have a new photograph and signature taken.
Special Considerations
- If you have a medical condition that could affect your driving, a doctor or examiner may require additional tests or restrictions.
- Family members or concerned individuals can report unsafe drivers to the Kansas Division of Vehicles for evaluation.
- Disabled parking placards and plates are available for those with mobility impairments; ask your doctor for the appropriate form.
Kansas’s renewal process for seniors is designed to balance road safety with respect for independence. If you have questions about your situation or need help preparing for renewal, let me know-I’m here to help!
Sources:
- https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovrenewingdl.html
- https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2012/b2011_12/statute/008_000_0000_chapter/008_002_0000_article/008_002_0047_section/008_002_0047_k/
- https://zutobi.com/us/ks-car/driver-guides/kansas-drivers-license-renewal
- https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/license-renewal-for-seniors-in-kansas-what-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/kansas-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
