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 changed your name. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $11. If your license is expired, your name has changed, or you need to update other information at the same time, you will need to visit a DPS office in person.
Texas allows you to update your address up to 30 days before you move or after you have already moved. You do not have to wait until your license expires to make the change.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes cost $11 and take about 10 minutes if your license is current and your name has not changed.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
- If your license is expired or you have changed your name, you must visit a DPS office in person and bring your current address proof, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Address changes take effect when ready online, but your physical license card will still show your old address until it expires and you renew it.
- You can change your address up to 30 days before your move or after you have already moved.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS online services portal at dps.texas.gov and select "Change Address" under the Driver's License section. You will need to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask you to confirm your current address and enter your new address.
After you submit the new address, you will receive a confirmation email. The address change takes effect when ready in the DPS system, even though your physical license card will still print your old address. You do not need to do anything else unless you want to order a replacement card with your new address printed on it.
The $11 fee is charged to the credit or debit card you provide during the online process. There is no refund if you change your mind after submitting the form.
What documents you need if you visit a DPS office in person
If your license is expired, your name has changed, or you prefer to update your address in person, you will need to bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address dated within the last 30 days.
You will also need to bring proof of identity if your name has changed. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are changing your address at the same time as renewing an expired license, bring your Social Security card and proof of Texas residency as well.
Visit the DPS office during regular business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. You can find your nearest office and check its hours at dps.texas.gov/driver-license-division/locations.
How long the address change takes to show up
Online address changes are recorded in the DPS system when ready. However, your physical driver's license card will continue to show your old address until you renew it or order a replacement card. If you need your new address to appear on your card right away, you can order a replacement for $11 through the same online portal, and it will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If you change your address in person at a DPS office, the staff can issue you a replacement card on the spot if you pay the $11 replacement fee. This is faster than waiting for a card to arrive by mail.
What happens if you move without updating your address
Your driver's license remains valid even if the address on it does not match where you actually live. However, law enforcement may question why your address is outdated, and you could face complications if you are pulled over or involved in an accident. Insurance companies may also deny a claim if they discover your address was not current.
If you receive a traffic ticket or other legal notice, the court will mail it to the address on your license. If you have moved and not updated it, you may miss the notice and face additional penalties. Updating your address promptly protects you from these risks.
Changing your address when you renew your license
When your license is expiring, you can renew it and update your address at the same time. You can renew online if your license is not more than two years expired and you have not changed your name. During the online renewal, you will be prompted to confirm or update your address. The renewal fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, and the address update is included at no extra cost.
If you renew in person at a DPS office, tell the staff member that you want to update your address. Bring your current address proof along with your expiring license and other required renewal documents. The address update is processed as part of the renewal transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No, you cannot use the online process if your license is expired. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and any other documents required for renewal, such as proof of Social Security number and Texas residency.
Does my new address show up on my license card right away?
No. The address change takes effect in the DPS system when ready, but your physical card will still show your old address. If you need the new address printed on your card, you can order a replacement card for $11, which arrives in 7 to 10 business days, or visit a DPS office to get one printed on the spot.
What if I do not have a document showing my new address?
You will need to obtain one before visiting a DPS office. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days all work. If you cannot get any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask about alternatives.
Can I change my address if I have a commercial driver's license?
Yes, the process is the same for a commercial license. You can change your address online if your license is current, or visit a DPS office in person if it is expired or you need to update other information.
What if I change my address online but then move again before my card arrives?
You can change your address online as many times as you need. Each change updates your record in the DPS system when ready. Your physical card will show whichever address was most recent when it was printed or ordered.