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While many U.S. states have tightened driving restrictions in recent years, Kansas follows a different approach in several everyday situations.
From cell phone use to window tint rules, here’s a clear, updated breakdown of important Kansas driving laws that motorists should understand.
Cell Phone Use While Driving in Kansas
Unlike more than 30 states that completely prohibit handheld phone use behind the wheel, Kansas allows adult drivers to talk on a handheld cell phone while driving.
Can You Use a Phone at a Red Light?
Yes. Kansas law permits drivers to look at their phone while stopped at a red light, as long as they are not texting, reading, or writing messages. Texting while driving remains strictly illegal, even when stopped temporarily in traffic.
Sleeping in Your Car: Is It Allowed?
Kansas does not have a statewide law banning people from sleeping in their vehicles. However, individual cities or counties may enforce local ordinances that restrict this activity.
Under Article 32 of the Kansas Department of Transportation administrative rules, the public may park up to 24 hours at designated roadside facilities for rest, relaxation, or historical visits.
Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck
Kansas law allows passengers aged 14 and older to ride in the bed of a pickup truck. However, children under 14 are generally prohibited from riding in truck beds.
An important exception applies on private property, such as farm land, where the restriction does not apply. This allows younger children to ride in pickup beds on private fields or farms.
Auto Insurance Requirements in Kansas
Car insurance is mandatory in Kansas. Drivers must carry auto liability coverage with at least:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Driving without proper insurance can lead to fines, license suspension, and other penalties.
Window Tint Laws: Can You Be Pulled Over?
Yes. Kansas law requires that sedans, SUVs, and vans allow at least 35% of light to pass through all windows. Vehicles with darker tint levels may give law enforcement legal grounds for a traffic stop.
Idling an Unattended Vehicle
Kansas statutes prohibit leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running on public roadways or other publicly maintained locations. Warming up a car without a driver present in these areas can result in a citation.
DUI Laws and Blood Alcohol Limits
Kansas considers a driver legally impaired if their blood-alcohol or breath-alcohol concentration reaches 0.08% or higher. This measurement must occur within three hours of operating or attempting to operate a motor vehicle.
Kansas driving laws differ in notable ways from many other states, particularly when it comes to cell phone use, vehicle idling, and passenger rules.
While some activities are allowed statewide, local ordinances and specific conditions still matter. Understanding these laws helps drivers stay compliant, avoid fines, and remain safe on Kansas roads.