The fastest way to change your address on a Texas driver's license

You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your license is not expired and you have not had more than one address change in the past year. Go to the DPS online services portal, enter your driver's license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to update your address. The change takes effect when ready, though your physical card will still show the old address until you renew it.

If you cannot use the online method — because your license is expired, you have changed addresses more than once in the past year, or you need the address updated on your physical card right away — you must visit a DPS driver's license office in person with proof of residency and your current license.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website works only if your license is current and you have not changed addresses more than once in the past year.
  • An online address change takes effect when ready but does not update the physical card; you will see the new address only when you renew.
  • In-person visits require proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days) and your current driver's license.
  • Texas does not charge a fee to change your address, whether you do it online or in person.
  • If your license is expired or you have had multiple address changes recently, you must visit an office in person.

Changing your address online through the DPS portal

Start at the Texas DPS website and look for the "Online Services" or "Driver's License Services" section. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and then let you enter your new address. Once you submit, the change is recorded in the state system right away.

The online method has one important limit: it works only if you have not changed your address more than once in the past 12 months. If you have moved twice or more in that period, the system will reject the online request and direct you to visit an office. This rule exists to prevent fraud and verify that address changes are legitimate.

After you change your address online, your driver's license record is updated, but your physical card still shows the old address. You do not need to carry anything else to prove your new address — law enforcement and government offices can see the current address in the system. However, if you want the new address printed on the card itself, you will need to renew your license.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office with your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice) dated within the past 90 days. The document must show your name and your new address.

Bring the original document or a certified copy — photocopies are not accepted. If the document is in a different name (for example, a spouse's utility bill), you will need to bring proof of the relationship, such as a marriage certificate. The office will process the change on the spot, and your physical license will be updated with the new address at no cost.

Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day. Many offices are busiest in the morning and on Fridays. You can check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go.

When you must change your address in person

Three situations require an in-person visit: your driver's license is expired, you have changed your address more than once in the past year, or you need the new address printed on your physical card when ready. The online system will not process requests in any of these cases.

If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at the same time you change your address. Renewal requires the same proof of residency, plus your Social Security number, proof of citizenship or lawful presence (such as a passport or birth certificate), and proof of Texas residency for at least 45 days. The fee for renewal is separate from the address change and varies depending on the type of license.

Documents you need for an in-person address change

Bring your current driver's license and one proof of residency dated within 90 days. The proof must show your name and new address. Here are the documents the DPS accepts:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet)
  • Lease agreement or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Government mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document)
  • Insurance policy (homeowner's or renter's)
  • Affidavit of residency (if you cannot obtain other documents)

If you do not have a document in your own name, you can use an affidavit of residency, which is a signed statement from someone who lives with you or from your landlord confirming your address. The DPS website has a template you can read and have notarized, or you can ask the office staff for one when you arrive.

What happens after you change your address

If you changed your address online, the update is when ready in the state system, but your physical card remains unchanged. When you renew your license — typically every five or eight years depending on your age — the new address will be printed on the new card.

If you changed your address in person at an office, your physical card is updated on the spot at no charge. You will receive the updated card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. In the meantime, your current license is still valid for identification purposes, and the DPS system shows your new address.

If you move again before your license expires, you can change your address online one more time (as long as you have not already changed it once in the past year). If you have already made one online change, your next change must be done in person.

Finding a DPS driver's license office near you

The Texas DPS website has a location finder where you can search by city or zip code. Each office listing shows hours, phone number, and current wait time. Some offices are appointment-only, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead can tell you whether you need an appointment and how long the wait is likely to be.

If you live in a rural area far from an office, you may be able to use a mobile DPS unit that visits certain towns on a schedule. Check the DPS website for the schedule in your region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my driver's license if I move?

Texas law requires you to notify the DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time after you move. While there is no specific important date, it is best to update your address as soon as possible to avoid problems with law enforcement or mail delivery. Keeping your address current also ensures you receive renewal notices at the right location.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, the online method does not work for expired licenses. You must visit a DPS office in person and renew your license at the same time. Bring proof of citizenship, proof of Texas residency for at least 45 days, your Social Security number, and proof of your new address. The renewal fee applies in addition to the address change.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online process takes about 5 to 10 minutes. The change is recorded in the state system when ready, so your new address is active right away. However, your physical card will still show the old address until you renew your license.

What if I moved but do not have a utility bill or lease in my name?

You can use an affidavit of residency, which is a notarized statement from someone who lives with you or from your landlord confirming your address. The DPS website provides a template, or you can ask for one at the driver's license office. This document counts as proof of residency for the address change.

Will I get a new physical card if I change my address online?

No. An online address change updates your record in the state system but does not issue a new card. Your physical license will still show your old address. You will receive a new card with the updated address only when you renew your license at the end of its validity period.