Requirements When Renewing a Kansas Driver License

For Immediate Release
June 5, 2008

Media Contact:
Freda Warfield - 785-296-3042

(Topeka) Kansas Department of Revenue reminds Kansans renewing their licenses of a relatively new state and federal requirement to provide proof of identity, proof of Kansas residency, and a valid social security number or other proof of lawful presence in this country. Unless these documents are presented at time of renewal, the applicants will be turned away.

Director of Vehicles, Carmen Alldritt noted that approximately 11 percent of renewing drivers, first time drivers and replacement licenses fail to arrive at Driver License offices with the required documents. “Some of these drivers, especially in western Kansas, have come a long distance to get their license renewed, only to find out they have to go home and get a utility bill, or something that proves their given address is in fact their Kansas residence, ” Alldritt said.

Proof of identity would include a state issued birth certificate, passport, and a marriage license if the name has changed. If you are a foreign visitor, documentation proving lawful presence is required. Proof of Kansas residency could be the renewal card received in the mail, providing it shows the “principal residence” address and not just a mailing address such as a P.O. Box. Additional documents to prove Kansas residency include: utility bill, vehicle registration, payroll stub and Kansas school records. Kansas verifies social security numbers with the Social Security Administration.

Additionally, applicants must appear in person, pass a vision exam, a written examination, pay the applicable fee, and have a new photograph and signature captured.

END

Editors note: A copy of the renewal card discussed in this release is located at http://www.ksrevenue.org/images/ren_card.jpg.