Driving and Transportation in Kansas City
Information for Foreign Nationals
Public transportation
Kansas City Streetcar
Free. The Downtown KC Streetcar loop runs from Union Station (connected via the link to Crown Center) through the heart of downtown and circles back in River Market at 3rd and Grand. The KC Streetcar runs every 10-15 minutes during peak period, seven days a week. View stops and track the location of the KC Streetcar.
Bus systems
Kansas City has two primary bus lines – The Metro and The JO – that travel all across the metropolitan area under the RideKC program. There are 89 local bus routes in seven counties of Kansas and Missouri. Read more on the RideKC website.
Children’s Mercy employees are eligible to purchase discounted employee bus passes for the Metro and The JO through the Cashier’s Office at the Children’s Mercy Adele Hall campus.
Private ride services
A variety of ride services are available across the Kansas City region. Popular choices include Uber, Lyft, cabs, and limos.
Uber and Lyft are often the most cost-effective options. These services work best within their downloadable mobile apps.
Air travel
Kansas City International Airport (KCI) is Kansas City’s largest airport and is located 21 miles northwest of downtown Kansas City.
Important Note: The official International Air Transport Association (IATA) airport code is MCI, not KCI.
KCI offers nonstop flights to more than 50 cities throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Iceland. Major airlines include Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Icelandair, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines and Vacation Express.
Unlike other major airports in the United States, the Kansas City International Airport does not offer onsite taxis. Courtesy phones for taxi service are located both inside and outside the terminal at each bag claim area and at other strategic locations outside the terminal exits. Airport shuttles are also available. Uber and Lyft mobile apps also offer cost-effective ride services.
Car options
Buying or leasing a car can be difficult for foreign nationals who have recently relocated to the United States. Many dealerships will not be able to get you a car loan immediately without establishing credit in the U.S. However, most European car companies (Porsche, Mercedes, VW, etc.) and Mazda offer special programs for foreign nationals.
- Expatride – Expat Car Leasing
- International AutoSource – International Buying or Leasing
Local driver’s license information
A driver's license is required for anyone who plans to operate a motor-driven vehicle on public roadways. If you have an international driver's license (written in English), you may be able to use it to drive in the United States. However, if you plan to drive regularly or purchase a car, you should obtain a driver's license in the state where you will live during your stay in the U.S.
Written verification showing proof of employment
Please contact Jessica Youngs for employment verification letters.
For Missouri residents
Foreign nationals who reside in Missouri can apply for a driver’s license at a Missouri Motor Vehicle and Driver License Office. Use the links below to find nearby locations, fee information and required document information.
For Kansas residents
Foreign nationals who reside in Kansas can apply for a driver’s license at a full-service Kansas Driver License Office. Use the links below to find nearby locations, fee information, and required document information.