You can change your Texas driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

The fastest way to update your address on a Texas driver's license is through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website using the online service. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The change takes effect when ready online, though your physical card will still show the old address until it expires or you renew it.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to DPS or visit a driver's license office in person. Each method has different wait times and requirements, and your choice depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a new card with your current address printed on it.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes effect when ready, though your physical card keeps the old address until renewal.
  • You can change your address by mail using Form DL-43 or in person at any Texas DPS driver's license office without an appointment.
  • If you need a new card with your updated address printed on it, you must renew your license in person or by mail, which costs a renewal fee.
  • Address changes are separate from license renewal; changing your address does not extend your license expiration date.
  • Texas accepts mail-in address changes, but processing takes several weeks, so online or in-person is faster if you need the change recorded quickly.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online address change service. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address and confirm the change. The system will update your record in the DPS database when ready, and you'll receive a confirmation number.

Your driver's license record will show your new address right away, which matters for traffic stops, insurance, and official records. However, the physical card in your wallet will still display your old address until you renew your license. If you need a card with the new address printed on it, you'll have to renew your license separately, which involves a fee and a new photo.

Changing your address by mail

Complete Form DL-43 (Change of Address) and mail it to the Texas DPS address listed on the form. Include your driver's license number and new address. You do not need to include your physical license or any supporting documents for an address change by mail.

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date DPS receives your form. During this time, your address in the system will not be updated. If you need the change recorded faster, use the online service or visit a driver's license office in person. Keep a copy of the form and the mailing date in case you need to follow up.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address dated within the last 90 days. You do not need an appointment.

The office will update your record on the spot, and your address change takes effect when ready. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request a duplicate license at the same time, though this will cost a fee. Processing for the duplicate card typically takes one to two weeks.

What counts as proof of address in Texas

Texas DPS accepts documents dated within the last 90 days that show your name and new address. Common examples include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. Government-issued mail such as a tax return or voter registration card also works.

The document must be an original or certified copy—photocopies are not accepted. If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, contact your local DPS office to ask about alternatives. Some offices may accept a signed letter from a landlord or property manager on official letterhead along with a utility bill in someone else's name at that address.

The difference between changing your address and renewing your license

Changing your address updates your record in the DPS system but does not change your license expiration date or issue a new card. Your physical license will still show your old address and old expiration date. Renewing your license, by contrast, issues a new card with a new expiration date and can include your new address if you provide it during renewal.

If you change your address online or by mail and then renew your license later, you'll need to provide your new address again during the renewal process. If you want a new card with your updated address right away, you can request a duplicate license (which costs a fee) or renew early if your license is close to expiration. Check the Texas DPS website for current duplicate and renewal fees.

What to do if you move out of state

If you move to another state, you do not need to update your Texas address with DPS. However, most states require you to obtain a driver's license from your new state within a set time frame—usually 30 to 60 days after establishing residency. Check your new state's DMV website for the specific important date and requirements.

You can keep your Texas license as a valid ID even after moving, but it will not be a valid driver's license in your new state. If you plan to return to Texas, you can keep your Texas license active by renewing it before it expires, even if you're living elsewhere. If your Texas license expires while you're out of state, you'll need to renew it in person or by mail when you return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to show my old license when I change my address?

For online changes, you only need your license number and personal information—you don't show anything. For in-person changes, bring your current license and proof of your new address. For mail-in changes, include your license number on the form but don't mail the physical card.

Will my insurance company know about my address change automatically?

No. Your insurance company does not receive updates from DPS. You must contact your insurance agent or company directly to update your address. Failing to update your insurance address can affect your coverage and claims, so do this as soon as you move.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address online or by mail with an expired license as long as your license number and personal information are correct. If you visit an office in person, the staff may ask you to renew your license at the same time, depending on how long it has been expired. Check with your local DPS office first if your license has been expired for more than a year.

How long does it take to get a new card if I request a duplicate with my new address?

A duplicate license typically arrives within one to two weeks, though this varies by DPS office workload. You can use your old license as a valid ID while you wait. If you need the new card faster, ask the office staff whether expedited processing is available and what it costs.

What if I move again before my address change is processed?

If you're changing by mail and move before the form is processed, contact the Texas DPS to provide your new address. If you're changing online or in person, your record updates when ready, so you can change it again as soon as you move. There is no limit to how many times you can update your address.