photo by: AP File Photo

This image provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue shows Kansas' driver's license design meant to comply with federal identification requirements for airport security purposes. (Kansas Department of Revenue via AP)

As the coronavirus pandemic continues into the new year, Kansas residents will again have a longer period to get their expiring driver’s licenses renewed. Some Kansans will also be able to renew through the state’s online portal without paying service fees.

Gov. Laura Kelly this week announced that she signed an executive order extending the deadline to June 30, 2021. The order also extends a previous provision that allows Kansans between the ages of 21 and 64 to renew their licenses online.

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it is clear that we must extend this provision to continue protecting Kansans’ health and safety,” Kelly said in a news release. “I encourage all Kansans eligible to take advantage of the opportunity for online license renewal to protect themselves and their communities from the spread of the virus.”

Additionally, the Kansas Department of Revenue removed service fees for all Kansans who use iKan, the state’s online renewal portal, to renew their license. Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart said the state hoped that the lack of fees would encourage residents to use the online portal to avoid renewing in person, which could potentially lead to the spread of the virus.

“By waiving the service fees, we hope Kansas drivers see this as an opportunity to experience a safe alternative to visiting our offices in person,” Burghart said. “This helps our customers not see delays in service and our staff to continue regular operations in a health-conscious manner.”

Residents may renew their license online at iKan.ks.gov.

As the Journal-World previously reported, area residents may still renew their licenses in person, but they will need to schedule an appointment. Additionally, the state last month opened a second location in Lawrence to help with a backlog of renewals.

The main office in Lawrence is at 1035 N. Third St., No. 122, in the I-70 Business Center in North Lawrence. The second temporary location is at AAA Kansas, 3514 Clinton Parkway, Suite K, which is in the shopping center adjacent to the Hy-Vee grocery store.

The second location appears to be open for appointments until the end of the year, according to a tweet from the organization. A representative for AAA did not immediately respond to the Journal-World’s request for confirmation.

Area residents may schedule an appointment at kdor.ks.gov/Apps/MotorVehicles/MobileSchedule.