Kansas Traffic Violation Statute of Limitations: What You Need to Know

In Kansas, the statute of limitations for most traffic infractions is one year from the date of the offense. However, critical exceptions exist:

Standard Infractions (1 Year)

Speeding, red-light violations, failure to signal, equipment violations, most non-injury moving violations. These are traffic infractions (civil), not crimes.

Misdemeanor Traffic Offenses (2 Years)

• DUI / DWI (first/second offense)
• Reckless driving
• Driving while suspended (DWS)
• Hit-and-run (property damage only)

No Statute of Limitations

• Vehicular homicide / manslaughter
• Fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement
• Aggravated DUI (injury/death, multiple priors)
• Any felony traffic offense

Important Nuances

• The clock starts at the offense date, not discovery.
• A warrant or charging document filed within the period tolls the statute.
• Failure to appear in court creates a bench warrant — no expiration.
• Out-of-state licenses: Kansas reports convictions to your home state via the Driver License Compact.

Disclaimer: This is general information. Statutes change; consult a Kansas traffic attorney for your specific situation.