Kansas has specific rules for senior drivers renewing their licenses in 2025. Residents aged 65 and older must renew their driver’s license every four years, unlike the six-year renewal period for younger drivers. This shorter interval reflects heightened attention to continued driving safety and health for older adults.
For every license renewal, Kansas seniors are required to complete a vision test. This applies universally, regardless of age, but for those 65 and above, the vision exam must be taken in person at each renewal. Online or mail-in renewals, which may be available for younger drivers, are not permitted for seniors; a physical visit to the licensing office is needed. The vision screening is generally conducted by Kansas Department of Revenue staff at the renewal site. If the results indicate any concerns, additional documentation or follow-up with an optometrist or eye care specialist may be required before renewal is approved.
Beyond the vision test, Kansas does not mandate a written or road test for senior drivers as part of standard renewal. However, a written test may be administered if the attending staff suspect potential issues with comprehension of driving laws or if there has been a prior driving incident involving the senior. The possibility of a road test during renewal is rare but remains within the authority of the licensing examiner, particularly if there are concerns about cognitive or physical abilities affecting driving safety.
To successfully renew, seniors must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, Kansas residency and principal residence. Documentation should be current—no older than two months—to confirm local residency. Fees for renewal are typically consistent with those of the general population, but may be subject to slight adjustments by the state or individual counties for administrative reasons.
Another aspect seniors should keep in mind is Kansas’s compliance with federal Real ID requirements. After May 7, 2025, all Kansas drivers will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of ID for boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. Seniors who have not yet upgraded to Real ID should do so at their next renewal, as this may require additional paperwork, such as proof of legal presence in the United States and name change documentation if applicable.
It’s recommended for Kansas senior drivers to prepare well before their scheduled renewal date. Ensuring that vision is regularly checked, and that all required documentation is gathered ahead of time, will help make the process straightforward and stress-free. Seniors who have medical conditions affecting their ability to drive safely may be asked to provide written certification from a healthcare provider, particularly if recommended by the examiner.
In summary, Kansas seniors must renew their licenses in person every four years with a vision test at each renewal, and must bring current proof of residency, identity, and a Social Security number. Real ID compliance is increasingly important, and road or written tests may be required if safety concerns arise during the renewal process.
Sources
[1] https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[2] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
[3] https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovrenewingdl.html
[4] https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovrealid.html
[5] https://www.highpointeins.com/blog/kansas-driving-laws-for-senior-citizens/
