What you need to do to change your name on your Texas license
To change the name on your Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person with proof of your legal name change and your current license. Texas does not allow name changes by mail or online. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive a new license with your updated name on the same day in most cases.
You cannot change your name on your license without first establishing the legal name change through a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree — whichever applies to your situation. DPS will not process the change without one of these documents.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS driver license office in person with your current license and proof of your legal name change.
- Acceptable proof includes a court order, certified marriage certificate, or certified divorce decree showing your new name.
- Bring a document that shows your current address if it differs from what is on your license.
- You will pay a fee for the new license, which varies depending on how long your current license is valid.
- Your new license is typically issued the same day you visit the office.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring your current Texas driver's license and the original or certified copy of the document that proves your legal name change. A certified copy means the document has an official seal or stamp from the court, vital records office, or other issuing authority — a photocopy will not work.
If you changed your name through marriage, bring your certified marriage certificate. If you changed your name through divorce, bring your certified divorce decree. If you changed your name through a court order, bring the certified court order. Some people have more than one of these documents; you only need one, but bringing all of them does not hurt.
You will also need to bring proof of your current address if the address on your license is no longer correct. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and address.
How to find and visit a DPS driver license office
Go to the Texas DPS website and use their office locator tool to find the nearest driver license office to you. The locator shows office hours, which vary by location. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online before you go, because some offices require you to take a number or make an appointment through their system.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive early if possible, as wait times can be long during midday and late afternoon hours. You do not need to bring your Social Security card, but having it with you does not hurt.
The fee and what happens after you pay
You will pay a fee to receive your new license. The fee depends on how long your current license is valid. If your current license expires within one year, the fee is lower than if it expires in five or more years. Ask the DPS employee what the exact fee is before you pay, so you know what to expect.
After you pay, the DPS office will take a new photo and print your new license on the spot. You will walk out with your new license the same day in almost all cases. Your old license becomes invalid once you receive the new one.
What to do if your name change happened outside of Texas
If you obtained your legal name change in another state or country, you must bring the certified document from that state or country to the DPS office. The document must be in English or accompanied by an official English translation. DPS will accept court orders, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees from other states and countries as long as they are certified.
If you are unsure whether your document is certified or whether it needs a translation, contact the DPS office before you visit. They can tell you over the phone whether your specific document will work.
Updating other documents after your license changes
Your new driver's license is your primary proof of identity with your new name. You should also update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Administration has its own process for name changes, which you can start on their website or at your local Social Security office.
If you have a vehicle registered in your old name, you will need to update the vehicle registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. You can do this by mail or in person at a DPS office. Bring your new driver's license and your vehicle registration to update it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my license if I do not have a certified copy of my court order or marriage certificate?
No. DPS requires an original or certified copy. If you lost your certified copy, you can request a new one from the court that issued the order or the vital records office in the county where you were married or divorced. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs a small fee.
What if my name change happened more than a year ago and I cannot find my court order?
Contact the court that issued the order or the county clerk's office where the order was filed. They can search their records and issue you a certified copy. You will need to know the approximate year the order was issued and the county where it was filed.
Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver license office for a name change?
It depends on the office. Some offices use a walk-in system; others require appointments. Check the DPS website for your specific office location to see whether appointments are required or recommended. Many offices allow you to reserve a time slot online.
Will my license number change when I change my name?
No. Your license number stays the same. Only your name and photo will be updated on your new license.
What if I am changing my name and my address at the same time?
You can do both in the same visit to the DPS office. Bring your proof of address along with your proof of name change, and tell the DPS employee that you need both updates. You will pay one fee for the new license that reflects both changes.