This comprehensive guide to Kansas traffic laws provides clear, actionable explanations of the most commonly searched driving rules in the Sunflower State. Whether you're navigating I-70 across the state, I-35 through Wichita and Kansas City, I-135 to Salina, or rural county roads through wheat country, understanding Kansas-specific traffic regulations helps you stay safe and avoid costly violations. From double yellow line rules to school bus stop requirements, Move Over Law, speed limits, work zone safety, texting while driving penalties, and DUI regulations—every section references the official Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) and guidance from the Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles and Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). This is educational information, not legal advice; always obey posted signs, signals, and directions from law enforcement.
Kansas highways including I-70, I-35, I-135, and rural roads require strict adherence to lane markings and traffic laws.
In Kansas, double solid yellow centerlines mark a no-passing zone where vehicles traveling in either direction are prohibited from crossing into the opposing lane to overtake another vehicle. According to K.S.A. 8-1523, these markings appear on curves, hills, bridges, intersections, and areas where sight distance is limited. Violating this law can result in fines ranging from $60 to $300, plus 2-3 points on your Kansas driving record and potential insurance premium increases. Kansas Highway Patrol and local law enforcement actively enforce no-passing zones on I-70, I-35, I-135, US-50, US-24, US-56, and rural county roads throughout the state.
Legal Exceptions: When You May Cross Double Yellow Lines in Kansas
Kansas law recognizes several limited exceptions where drivers may legally cross double solid yellow lines:
Left turns into driveways and private roads: You may cross double yellow lines when making a left turn into a residential driveway, business entrance, alley, farm access, or private property, provided it is safe and no oncoming traffic is present.
Avoiding obstructions in your lane: When a temporary obstruction blocks your lane—such as a disabled vehicle, fallen debris, farm equipment being loaded, road maintenance equipment, or accident scene—you may briefly cross the centerline if the opposing lane is clear and the maneuver can be done safely.
Following official directions: When law enforcement officers, Kansas Highway Patrol, traffic control personnel, emergency responders, or construction flaggers direct you to cross the centerline, you must follow their instructions.
Passing bicycles with adequate clearance: Kansas law allows drivers to cross double yellow lines to pass bicycles when at least 3 feet of clearance can be provided, the opposing lane is clear, and the maneuver can be completed safely.
These exceptions do not permit passing slow-moving vehicles, agricultural machinery traveling under its own power, or general traffic congestion. The maneuver must be necessary, brief, and safe for all road users.
Kansas I-70 Turnpike: Double Yellow Line Enforcement on Major Routes
Interstate 70 (I-70) crosses Kansas from the Colorado border to Kansas City, serving as the primary east-west corridor through Colby, Hays, Salina, Junction City, Topeka, and Lawrence. The Kansas Turnpike Authority operates the tolled portion from Topeka to Kansas City. While most of I-70 uses white lane markings, double yellow lines appear on entrance/exit ramps, service roads, frontage roads, and connector routes. Kansas Highway Patrol maintains consistent enforcement along the entire I-70 corridor, with particular attention to construction zones, merge areas, and high-traffic sections near Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City metro areas.
Rural Kansas Highways: Farm Equipment and Agricultural Safety
Rural Kansas highways including US-24, US-50, US-56, US-400, and county roads through wheat country, cattle ranches, and farming areas frequently encounter slow-moving agricultural equipment including tractors, combines, grain trucks, and livestock trailers. Double yellow no-passing zones are strategically placed on curves, hills, and narrow bridges common in rural areas. Kansas law prohibits passing across double yellow lines even when behind slow farm equipment—wait for a legal passing zone marked with dashed yellow lines. During harvest season (June-August for wheat, September-November for corn and soybeans), exercise extra caution on rural roads.
Kansas law prohibits passing across double yellow lines but allows left turns into driveways when safe.
Kansas Right Turn on Red & Traffic Signal Laws
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1508: Right on Red After Complete Stop
Kansas law permits right turns on red signals after coming to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection edge, unless a "NO TURN ON RED" sign prohibits it. Before turning, drivers must:
Come to a full stop—your vehicle must reach zero miles per hour
Yield to pedestrians in or approaching the crosswalk
Yield to all vehicles and cyclists with the right-of-way
Check for "NO TURN ON RED" signs, which may apply at all times or during specific hours
Ensure the turn can be made safely without interfering with traffic flow
Rolling through the stop or blocking the crosswalk is a common violation. Kansas courts treat incomplete stops seriously, with fines typically ranging from $60 to $130 plus court costs and 2 points on your license.
Wichita & Kansas City Metro: No Turn on Red Zones
Wichita intersections near downtown, Old Town, Century II Performing Arts Center, and Intrust Bank Arena frequently post "NO TURN ON RED" signs due to pedestrian traffic and complex signal phasing. Similarly, Kansas City (Kansas) intersections along State Avenue, Kansas Avenue, and near Legends Outlets and Kansas Speedway prohibit turns on red for safety. Overland Park, Olathe, and Shawnee also maintain no-turn-on-red restrictions at busy commercial intersections. Always read supplemental plaques—some restrictions apply only during specific hours or when pedestrians are present.
Left Turn on Red in Kansas: One-Way to One-Way Streets
Kansas permits left turns on red from one-way streets onto other one-way streets, provided you come to a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and traffic, and no sign prohibits the turn. This scenario occurs primarily in downtown Wichita, Kansas City, Topeka's downtown grid, and Lawrence near the University of Kansas campus. Before attempting a left turn on red, verify that both streets are one-way in the appropriate directions and check for prohibitive signage.
Kansas Traffic Signal Timing & Yellow Light Duration
Kansas traffic signals follow KDOT and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines for yellow (amber) light timing, typically 3-5 seconds depending on intersection speed limits and approach geometry. If you are already in the intersection when the light turns red, complete your movement safely. Entering on yellow is legal if you cannot stop safely; entering on red is a violation subject to citation. Kansas does not currently use red light cameras statewide, but enforcement by police officers remains active at high-violation intersections.
School Zone Traffic Signals: Flashing Yellow Lights
Kansas school zones use flashing yellow beacons to indicate reduced speed limits when children are present, typically 20 mph during school hours (usually 7-9 AM and 2-4 PM on school days). Some school zones use flashing red signals requiring a complete stop when activated. Always observe posted school zone speed limits— violations in school zones carry doubled fines and 3 points on your license.
Kansas has thousands of railroad grade crossings, particularly in rural areas served by BNSF Railway and Union Pacific. When crossing signals activate (flashing red lights and/or gates descending), you must stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail. Never drive around lowered gates or attempt to beat a train—Kansas law (K.S.A. 8-1555) imposes severe penalties including fines up to $500, 3 points, possible license suspension, and criminal charges if violations result in accidents or injuries.
In Kansas, always stop fully and yield to pedestrians before making a right turn on red.
Kansas School Bus Stop Laws & Severe Penalties
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1556: Stopping for School Buses
Kansas enforces strict school bus stop laws to protect children. When a school bus activates flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, the following rules apply under K.S.A. 8-1556:
Undivided roads (no median): All vehicles traveling in both directions must stop at least 10 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm retracts.
Divided highways (physical median or barrier): Only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop. Opposing traffic on the other side of a physical divider may proceed cautiously.
Multi-lane roads without median: All lanes in both directions must stop. Painted turn lanes or double yellow lines do not count as physical dividers.
Passing a stopped school bus is a serious violation in Kansas. First-offense penalties include fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, possible license suspension for up to one year, and significantly increased insurance rates. Second and subsequent offenses carry mandatory license suspensions and potential misdemeanor criminal charges.
Kansas School Bus Camera Programs: Stop-Arm Video Enforcement
Many Kansas school districts equip buses with exterior stop-arm cameras that record license plates of vehicles illegally passing stopped buses. Video footage is reviewed by local law enforcement, who issue citations to registered owners. Camera-based enforcement has increased throughout Wichita, Overland Park, Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan, and rural districts. Expect strict enforcement during morning (7-9 AM) and afternoon (2-4 PM) school hours on all roads.
Flashing Yellow vs Flashing Red School Bus Signals
Kansas school buses first activate flashing yellow lights approximately 200 feet before the intended stop to warn drivers that the bus is preparing to stop for children. You should slow down and prepare to stop but are not yet legally required to do so. Once the flashing red lights activate and the stop arm extends, you must come to a complete stop. Do not proceed until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm retracts, and children are clear of the roadway.
Enhanced Penalties for School Bus Violations Causing Injury
Kansas imposes severe penalties if passing a stopped school bus results in injury or death. Violations causing bodily injury can result in Class A misdemeanor charges with fines up to $2,500 and up to one year in jail. Violations resulting in death can be prosecuted as felonies with substantially higher penalties. Always stop for school buses—children's safety depends on full compliance with stop-arm laws.
On undivided Kansas roads, all traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights.
Kansas Texting While Driving & Cell Phone Use Laws
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-15,111: Texting Ban for All Drivers
Kansas prohibits all drivers from texting while driving under K.S.A. 8-15,111. This includes reading, writing, or sending text messages, emails, or instant messages while operating a motor vehicle. Key provisions include:
Complete texting ban: No driver may manually type, send, or read text-based communications while driving.
Voice-to-text allowed: Voice-activated and hands-free text messaging is permitted for drivers 18 and over.
Emergency exception: Drivers may text to report emergencies, crimes, or request assistance from law enforcement or emergency services.
Parked vehicle exception: Texting is allowed when the vehicle is lawfully parked (completely off the roadway).
Cell Phone Restrictions for Drivers Under 18 in Kansas
Kansas imposes stricter cell phone restrictions on drivers under 18 years old. Learner's permit and intermediate license holders are prohibited from using wireless communication devices (including handheld and hands-free) while driving, except to report emergencies. This means teen drivers cannot use cell phones for calls, texts, GPS, music, or any other purpose while operating a vehicle.
Kansas Texting While Driving Penalties & Fines
Violations of Kansas texting laws result in:
First offense: $60 fine (traffic infraction)
Subsequent offenses: $60 fine plus potential points on license if violation contributes to an accident
Violations causing accidents: Enhanced penalties, possible misdemeanor charges, civil liability for damages and injuries
Kansas Highway Patrol and local law enforcement actively enforce texting bans through observation at intersections, traffic stops, and accident investigations. Insurance companies may increase premiums for texting-related violations and accidents.
Distracted Driving Awareness: Kansas "Put the Phone Down" Campaign
The Kansas Department of Transportation and Kansas Highway Patrol conduct ongoing distracted driving awareness campaigns, particularly during high-visibility enforcement periods. Studies show that texting while driving increases crash risk by 23 times. Kansas law enforcement officers are trained to identify distracted driving behaviors and issue citations accordingly. Always put your phone away or use hands-free technology before starting your vehicle.
Kansas Speed Limit Laws & Highway Regulations
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1558: Maximum Speed Limits Statewide
Kansas establishes maximum speed limits for different types of roads under K.S.A. 8-1558. Default speed limits include:
Interstate highways (I-70, I-35, I-135, I-335, I-435, I-470, I-635, I-670): 75 mph in rural areas, 70 mph in urban areas, 65 mph in some metro zones
County and township roads: 55 mph (unless otherwise posted)
Residential streets and urban districts: 30 mph (unless otherwise posted)
School zones: 20 mph when children are present (flashing beacons active)
Always obey posted signs, which supersede default limits. Speed limits can change frequently based on road conditions, construction zones, weather, and traffic patterns.
The Kansas Turnpike, operated by the Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA), runs 236 miles from Kansas City to south-central Kansas near Wellington and Oklahoma. Speed limits on the Turnpike are 75 mph for most sections, with reduced speeds (65 mph or 55 mph) in construction zones and urban areas near Kansas City, Topeka, and Wichita. Kansas Highway Patrol conducts regular speed enforcement on the Turnpike using radar, LIDAR, and pacing methods. Speeding tickets on the Turnpike carry the same fines and points as violations on other Kansas highways.
Kansas Basic Speed Law: Reasonable and Prudent Speed
In addition to maximum speed limits, Kansas enforces a basic speed law requiring drivers to operate at speeds reasonable and prudent for current road, traffic, and weather conditions (K.S.A. 8-1557). This means you can be cited for driving too fast for conditions even if you're under the posted speed limit. Factors include:
Rain, snow, ice, fog, or reduced visibility
Heavy traffic or congestion
Road construction or maintenance activity
Narrow roads, sharp curves, or steep grades
Pedestrian or bicycle traffic
Kansas experiences severe weather including thunderstorms, tornadoes, ice storms, and blizzards. Always reduce speed appropriately for conditions—failure to do so can result in citations for "driving too fast for conditions" plus liability for any resulting accidents.
Work Zone Speed Limits & Increased Penalties
Kansas law authorizes increased fines for speeding in highway work zones when workers are present. Work zones are marked by orange construction signs, cones, barrels, and reduced speed limits (typically 45-60 mph). Kansas posts "FINES DOUBLED IN WORK ZONES" or "INCREASED FINES IN WORK ZONES" signs to warn drivers. A typical speeding ticket might cost $130; in an active work zone with workers present, the fine can double to $260 plus court costs and points. Additionally, K.S.A. 8-1598a establishes enhanced penalties for speeding violations in work zones that endanger highway workers.
Kansas Point System & License Suspension Thresholds
Kansas uses a point system administered by the Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles. Common speeding violations add:
1-10 mph over limit: 1 point
11-20 mph over limit: 2 points
21-30 mph over limit: 3 points
31+ mph over limit: 3 points (may also result in reckless driving charges)
Accumulating 3 or more moving violations within 12 months can trigger license suspension or restriction. Drivers can attend a state-approved defensive driving course to reduce points or avoid license suspension in some cases, subject to court approval.
Kansas Highway Patrol uses radar, LIDAR (laser), pacing, and occasional aircraft speed enforcement. Radar detectors are legal in Kansas for passenger vehicles but do not exempt you from speed limits. Some rural interstate and highway corridors use aircraft speed enforcement—watch for pavement markings (painted lines or markers) and "SPEED ENFORCED BY AIRCRAFT" signs. Contesting speeding tickets requires appearing in the issuing municipal or district court; consult a traffic attorney for serious violations.
Kansas DUI Laws & Alcohol-Related Driving Offenses
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1567: Driving Under the Influence
Kansas prohibits operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and over, 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21, and0.04% or higher for commercial drivers (K.S.A. 8-1567). Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with DUI if alcohol or drugs have impaired your ability to drive safely. Kansas courts take DUI offenses seriously due to the state's commitment to highway safety.
First-Offense DUI Penalties in Kansas
A first-time DUI conviction in Kansas carries:
Jail time: 48 hours to 6 months (often suspended with probation and diversion)
Fines: $750-$1,000 plus court costs, fees, and surcharges
License suspension: 30 days, followed by restricted license (ignition interlock required) for up to 1 year
Ignition interlock device (IID): Required for license reinstatement
Alcohol evaluation and treatment: Mandatory assessment and completion of recommended treatment program
Community service: Possible requirement depending on county
Penalties increase substantially for repeat offenses, high BAC levels (0.15% or above), refusal to submit to chemical testing, or DUI incidents involving accidents, injuries, or minors in the vehicle.
Kansas Implied Consent Law & Chemical Test Refusal
Under Kansas implied consent law (K.S.A. 8-1001), by driving on Kansas roads you automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing the test results in automatic administrative penalties:
First refusal: 1-year license suspension
Second refusal: 2-year suspension
Third or subsequent refusal: 3-year suspension
Refusal does not prevent prosecution—the state can still charge you with DUI based on officer observations, field sobriety tests, and other evidence. Refusal can be used against you in court and typically results in harsher penalties if convicted. Additionally, test refusal may disqualify you from diversion programs available to first-time offenders.
Ignition Interlock Device Requirements in Kansas
Kansas requires ignition interlock devices (IID) for most DUI offenders seeking license reinstatement after suspension. An IID is a breath-testing device connected to your vehicle's ignition system. The engine will not start unless you provide a breath sample below the programmed limit (typically 0.02% BAC). Kansas requires IIDs for:
All first-time DUI offenders (minimum 1 year)
Second and subsequent DUI offenders (2-10 years depending on offense history)
Test refusal cases as a condition of restricted license reinstatement
You must use a state-approved IID provider and pay all installation, monthly monitoring ($70-$120/month), and removal costs. Attempting to circumvent the device, tampering, or having someone else blow into it is a criminal offense (K.S.A. 8-1015) that can result in additional jail time, extended IID requirement, and license revocation.
Kansas Move Over Law & Emergency Vehicle Regulations
Kansas Statute K.S.A. 8-1530a: Move Over Law
Kansas Move Over Law (K.S.A. 8-1530a) requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, maintenance vehicles, or utility vehicles displaying flashing lights to:
On multi-lane roads: Vacate the lane closest to the stopped vehicle if safe to do so.
If unable to move over safely: Slow down to a safe speed and be prepared to stop.
On two-lane roads: Slow down to a safe speed and be prepared to stop if necessary.
Covered vehicles include Kansas Highway Patrol cars, police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, KDOT maintenance vehicles, tow trucks, and utility service vehicles displaying amber, blue, red, or white flashing lights. Violations carry fines up to $500 and 3 points on your license. If the violation results in property damage, injury, or death to emergency personnel or workers, criminal penalties increase to misdemeanor or felony charges with substantial jail time and fines.
Kansas Emergency Vehicle Right-of-Way Laws
When an emergency vehicle approaches with audible siren and visible flashing lights, Kansas law (K.S.A. 8-1528) requires you to immediately yield the right-of-way by:
Pulling over to the right edge of the roadway
Coming to a complete stop
Remaining stopped until the emergency vehicle passes
This applies to police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and other authorized emergency vehicles. Never stop in an intersection—proceed through the intersection first and then pull to the right. Failure to yield to emergency vehicles carries fines, points on your license, and potential criminal charges if the violation delays emergency response or causes accidents.
Kansas Tow Truck & Roadside Assistance Vehicle Safety
Kansas Move Over Law specifically protects tow truck operators and roadside assistance personnel who face significant danger while assisting disabled vehicles on roadsides. When you see amber flashing lights ahead, move over or slow down immediately. Kansas has experienced multiple tow truck operator fatalities in recent years, making this law critically important for worker safety on I-70, I-35, and other busy highways.
KDOT Highway Maintenance Vehicle Protections
Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) highway maintenance crews perform road repairs, pothole patching, striping, mowing, snow removal, and other maintenance operations. KDOT vehicles display flashing amber lights and are often accompanied by traffic control devices including cones, barrels, arrow boards, and flaggers. The Move Over Law applies to all KDOT maintenance vehicles—move over or slow down when approaching. Work zone violations endangering KDOT workers can result in enhanced penalties under K.S.A. 8-1598a.
Official Kansas Traffic Law Resources & DMV Information
This guide summarizes common Kansas traffic rules based on the Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) and guidance from the Kansas Department of Revenue Division of Vehicles and KDOT. It is not legal advice. Always follow posted signs, signals, and instructions from law enforcement. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions or if you are facing traffic citations or criminal charges.
