Kansas Driver’s License & Registration for New Residents

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Kansas driver's license and registration guide for new residents
You have 90 days to transfer your driver's license and register a car in Kansas. Here's how it works, the costs, and links for the required forms.

❗️Quick Info: You have a 90 day window to switch your out-of-state driver’s license to a Kansas one, and the same amount of time for vehicle registration.

Greetings and salutations to the Sunflower State! As you transition into life in Kansas, with its picturesque landscapes and rich history, you’ll also need to tick off some administrative boxes. Getting your driving and vehicle credentials sorted is crucial before diving into the cultural experiences, from the Wizard of Oz Museum to the Monument Rocks. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Process for Obtaining a License in Kansas

  1. Destination DMV: Your first pit stop is the local Kansas DOV office. It’s a necessary step on your journey in the state.
  2. Pass a vision examination: Be sure to bring any corrective lenses required to see while driving. A vision test is mandatory for new Kansas drivers.
  3. Bid Adieu to Your Old License: When you arrive, you’ll have to surrender your out-of-state driver’s license or produce a current certified copy of your driving record.
  4. Documentation Is Essential: Come prepared with proof of citizenship or legal presence (like a birth certificate or passport), your social security number, and two proofs of KS residency.
  5. What’s the Damage?: Depending on your age, the fee will differ. If you’re aged 21-64, it will cost you $29 for a 6-year license.

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Vehicle Registration in Kansas

  1. Have your vehicle inspected: Find a VIN inspection station to receive a completed Motor Vehicle Examination form (MVE-1)
  2. Back to the DMV: Your next port of call is the local county tag office. Remember, you have a 90-day timeframe.
  3. Formalities First: Fill out the Title and Registration Manual Application (Form TR-212a). Pre-preparation can go a long way.
  4. Ownership and Insurance Proof: Keep your vehicle ownership evidence (like a notarized car title or the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin [MCO]) and insurance details handy. If a lienholder holds your title, the Kansas DMV sends a letter to the lienholder requesting the title to complete the application.
  5. How Much Will It Cost?: Registration fees are based on your vehicle’s weight. If it’s under 4,500 pounds, it’s $42.50. Heavier vehicles, over 4,500 pounds have a fee of $52.25. Additional costs include a $10 titling fee, a $6.50 transfer fee, and $7.25 in miscellaneous fees.

Emissions Testing

Here’s a breather! Kansas does not mandate emissions testing. However, staying informed about future changes or county-specific regulations is beneficial.

Conclusion

Transitioning to your new life in Kansas might come with some paperwork, but once you’re through, you’re free to roam the expansive plains and dive into the rich cultural tapestry of the state. Here’s to new beginnings in Kansas! Safe travels!

About The Author

Travis French

Travis French

On a 750-mile trek across 4 states, I felt the void: good info on places to live was missing. So, I started gathering. Today, I'm still searching for my perfect place alongside you and adding each bit of helpful information I discover along the way. —Writer, Home Advisor, & Owner of First&Sold. NVRED Lic #S.0182305

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