You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

Texas lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new card, as long as you're not changing your name, date of birth, or other identifying information. The fastest route is the online system through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both options work — they just take longer.

Your address must match what the DPS has on file before you can renew your license or pass certain identity checks. If you've moved and haven't updated it, you may run into problems at traffic stops, when explore for jobs that require background checks, or when you need to prove residency for banking or housing.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with no appointment needed.
  • You can also change your address in person at any DPS driver's license office or by mail using Form DL-43, though both take longer than the online method.
  • Your current driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number are required to start any address change.
  • Address changes made online or by mail do not issue a new physical card — your current license remains valid with the updated address in the system.
  • If you're also renewing your license, you can update your address as part of that renewal instead of doing it separately.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" and you'll be directed to a login page. You'll need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in. The system will pull up your current information and let you enter your new address.

Once you submit the change, the DPS updates their records when ready. You don't receive a new physical card — your existing license stays valid, and the address change shows up in the system right away. This method works for any address change within Texas or if you're moving out of state.

The online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you run into trouble logging in or the system won't accept your information, you can try again later or use one of the other methods instead.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS driver's license office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address.

Walk in during office hours — no appointment is required for address changes at most locations, though wait times vary. The staff will update your address in the system on the spot. Like the online method, you won't receive a new card; your current license remains valid with the updated address.

This option works well if you're uncomfortable using the online system or if you need to handle other license business at the same time, such as renewing your photo or correcting other information.

Changing your address by mail using Form DL-43

read Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days).

Mail the completed form and proof to the address listed on the form. Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives it. Once processed, your address is updated in the system, and your current license remains valid. You won't receive a new card unless you also request a duplicate or renewal.

Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you're concerned about delivery, you can send it certified mail with return receipt so you have proof it arrived.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, homeowner's or renter's insurance policies, and bank or credit card statements. Some offices also accept government mail with your name and address, such as tax documents or voter registration cards.

The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies alone usually won't work. If your name on the proof document doesn't match your license exactly (for example, you go by a nickname on your lease but your license shows your full legal name), bring a second document that shows both names, or explain the difference to the staff.

What happens if you move out of state

You can update your address in the Texas DPS system even if you're moving to another state. Your Texas license remains valid for identification purposes in other states, and updating the address keeps your records current. However, most states require you to get a driver's license from your new state within a certain timeframe — usually 30 to 60 days after moving.

Check your new state's requirements before you move. Some states let you keep your Texas license for a period of time; others require you to surrender it and get a new one when ready. Updating your address in Texas doesn't affect that timeline, but it does may support your records are correct if you need to reference your Texas license for any reason.

Address changes during license renewal

If your license is expiring soon, you can update your address as part of the renewal process instead of doing it separately. When you renew online, by mail, or in person, you'll be asked to confirm or change your address. This saves you a step and means you get a new card with the updated address printed on it.

If your license isn't expiring for several years and you need your address updated now, use one of the methods above rather than waiting for renewal. Your current license will remain valid with the address change reflected in the DPS system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new driver's license card when I change my address?

No, not unless you're renewing your license at the same time. Address changes made online, by mail, or in person update the DPS system, but your current physical card stays the same. The address change is recorded in their database and shows up when they look up your record.

How long does it take for an address change to show up in the system?

Online changes are when ready. In-person changes at a DPS office happen on the spot. By-mail changes take two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives your form. If you're in a hurry, the online or in-person methods are faster.

What if I don't have proof of my new address yet?

You'll need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and address to complete the change. If you just moved and don't have a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address, or wait until you receive your first utility bill or bank statement at the new address.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can update your address in the system even if your license is suspended or expired. However, if your license is expired, you'll need to renew it as well to get a valid ID. If it's suspended, contact the DPS to understand the reason and what steps you need to take before you can use it again.

What if the online system won't accept my information?

The online system requires your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to match what the DPS has on file. If it keeps rejecting your information, try again later — the system may be temporarily down. If the problem continues, visit a DPS office in person or mail in Form DL-43 instead.