Getting your Kansas learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can say who is eligible for a Kansas instruction permit and when a parent must sign.
• You can list the kinds of documents you need to bring.
• You can describe the vision and written tests you must pass.
• You can explain the rules you must follow while driving on a permit.

What you need to know and understand

• You can apply from age 14. Under 16, a parent or guardian must make a written application.
• You must pass every part of the license exam except the driving test, which means the vision and written tests.
• The vision standard is at least 20/40 in one eye. If you need glasses or contacts to meet it, your license will require them.
• Kansas law sets a $2 application fee for a class C instruction permit. Other office charges may apply, so check the current total with KDOR.
• A driver education completion form (DE-99) can be accepted in place of the written test for a teen currently in an approved course.
• The permit is valid for one year and is renewed by passing the written test again.
• Applicants 17 and older apply under a separate statute, but the supervision rules are similar.

What to bring to the license office

Kansas law requires proof of age and identity before any permit is issued. Gather these before your visit:

• A photo identity document, or a non-photo document showing your full legal name and date of birth.
• A document showing your name and your Kansas home address.
• Your Social Security number, or proof of lawful presence and Kansas residency if you do not have one.
• A parent or guardian, if you are under 16, to sign the application.
• Glasses or contact lenses if you wear them for driving.

Your visit, step by step

1. Study the Kansas Driving Handbook, especially the rules of the road and the sign shapes and colors.
2. Hand in your documents and the signed application.
3. Take the vision screening. If you fail, you can have your vision corrected or use an eye doctor's report, and retake it without an extra fee.
4. Take the written test, unless you bring an accepted driver education form.
5. Pay the fees and receive your instruction permit.

Rules from the day you get it

Carry the permit every time you drive. A supervising adult who is at least 21, holds a valid class A, B, C or commercial license and has at least one year of driving experience must sit beside you in the front seat. If you are under 17, no one else may sit in the front. You may not use a phone or other wireless device while driving, except to report illegal activity or call for emergency help. Breaking any permit restriction leads to suspension.

Common mistakes

• Arriving without a parent when you are under 16. The application must be signed by a parent or guardian.
• Going to an office that does not give the written test. Check the KDOR office list first.
• Letting a friend sit in the front seat next to the supervisor. Under 17, only the supervising adult may be in the front.
• Choosing an internet-only driver education course. The handbook says internet course certificates are not accepted for licensing in Kansas.

Test yourself: Getting your Kansas learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Kansas Farm Permit for Teen Drivers
• Kansas Permit Practice Test
• Kansas Permit Test