While the myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Kansas Division of Vehicles (DOV) apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes some special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.
Kansas state rules are explained in more detail below, but a number of them focus on identifying and handling older drivers who may have become unsafe.
Specifically, Kansas:
Special rules apply to drivers who are 70 and older who seek to renew their licenses.
Time limits: Drivers age 65 and older must renew in person every four years; those under 65 must renew every six years.
Vision test: Required at in-person renewal. DMV personnel will conduct a test free, or drivers can have an exam performed by an outside ophthalmologist or optometrist, who must complete a Vision Form and conduct the exam within 90 days of the renewal request.
Written test: Not required at renewal.
Road test: Required only if there are indications of driver impairment.
Up to four restrictions can be added to a license at the discretion of a doctor or the license examiner.
These may include:
For information on how to report a driver who may have become unsafe, contact the DOV's main office in Topeka.
For information on how to get back a license that has been suspended or revoked in Kansas, contact the Driver Control Bureau.
Disability parking placards and license plates can be issued to drivers with impaired mobility if a licensed doctor of medicine, osteopath, chiropractor, podiatrist, optometrist, physician assistant, advanced registered nurse practitioner, or Christian Science practitioner listed in The Christian Science Journal.
The placards and plates are also available for those who:
Steps required to obtain a disabled placard or plate are:
The DOV website contains basic information about the state's driving rules and regulations.
Of special interest is the downloadable "Kansas Driving Handbook," which includes a section on driving tips for seniors.
You can use Nolo's Lawyer Directory to find a local lawyer experienced in representing older people who need help with auto accidents or traffic tickets in Kansas.
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