How to Get Your Driver's License in Kansas
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Kansas. Kansas uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 16.5.
GDL Stages in Kansas
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Restricted License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 12 months
- Complete 50 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 non-sibling passenger under 18
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold restricted license for at least 6 months
- Clean driving record
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the restricted license phase.
- Only 1 non-sibling passenger under 18 is allowed.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift after holding the restricted license for 6 months with a clean record, or at age 17.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 17 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 17 and older may obtain a full license without the restricted period. Those under 17 must complete the GDL program.
Kansas-Specific Information
Kansas has one of the earliest nighttime curfews in the nation at 9 p.m., significantly earlier than most states. The state allows a learner's permit at age 14, but requires a full 12 months of supervised practice before the road test.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 16.5 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Kansas.
Kansas uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Restricted License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the restricted license phase.
- Only 1 non-sibling passenger under 18 is allowed.
Adults age 17 and older in Kansas can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 17 and older may obtain a full license without the restricted period. Those under 17 must complete the GDL program.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Kansas learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Kansas.
Kansas drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Kansas Division of Vehicles guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Kansas Division of Vehicles website for the most current information.