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How to Get Your Kansas Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Kansas DOV directly.

Under 17 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Apply for an instruction permit at 14

    Apply at a DOV exam station with a parent or legal guardian's written authorization. Pass the 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct), given in person or through the webcam-proctored KnowTo Drive Online platform, plus a vision test.

    • Proof of identity and residency
    • Parent or legal guardian's written authorization

  2. Consider a farm permit instead, if eligible

    A 14-year-old who lives on or is employed on a farm larger than 20 acres can apply for a distinct farm permit, covering farm-related work and school travel.

  3. Complete driver training and log supervised hours

    Complete an approved driver training course and log at least 25 hours of adult-supervised driving before applying for a restricted license.

  4. Apply for a restricted license at 15

    After holding the instruction permit at least a year, apply for a restricted license, which allows driving for work, farm work, school on session days, or religious activities between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.

  5. Drive with a supervising adult outside those purposes

    Outside the permitted work, farm, school, and religious-activity purposes, a licensed adult at least 21 years old must ride in the front passenger seat.

  6. Certify 50 supervised hours to move beyond a restricted license

    Submit an affidavit certifying at least 50 total hours of adult-supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night.

  7. Move to a less-restricted, then full, license

    Once the hour and holding-period requirements are met, advance to a less-restricted license and then a full, unrestricted license — no additional testing required.

17 and Older

  1. Apply for an instruction permit

    Apply at a DOV exam station; the graduated restricted-license stages apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 17.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your instruction permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    An applicant who's at least 17 qualifies for a full, unrestricted license immediately upon passing, skipping the restricted-license stage entirely.

Notes

  • Kansas's licensing agency is the Division of Vehicles (DOV), part of the Department of Revenue — the state doesn't use a "DMV" name.
  • KnowTo Drive Online costs $10 for a first attempt and $8.50 per retest, with up to 4 attempts allowed within a 6-month window.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official Kansas Division of Vehicles website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23