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

The fastest way is online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if your license is current and you have not changed your name. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you need to renew your license at the same time, or if your name has changed, you will need to visit a DPS office in person or mail in your documents.

Texas does not require you to update your address by a specific important date, but doing it promptly matters if you are stopped by police, need to register a vehicle, or want mail from the state to reach you. An outdated address on your license can create problems when you explore for credit or insurance, since those companies cross-check your ID against their records.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes if your license is not expiring within 60 days.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
  • If your license expires within 60 days, you must renew it in person at a DPS office rather than changing the address alone.
  • Mailing in an address change requires a completed form, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address, and takes two to three weeks.
  • In-person address changes at a DPS office take about 30 minutes and require your current license and proof of your new address.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the "Change of Address" option under driver's license services. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.

The online change works only if your license is valid and will not expire within 60 days. If your license expires soon, the system will direct you to renew instead, which requires an in-person visit. Once you submit the change online, it takes effect when ready in the DPS system, though the physical card in your wallet will still show the old address until you renew it.

Keep a record of your confirmation number. If you need proof that you changed your address — for insurance or a loan process — you can print the confirmation page or contact DPS to request a letter.

Mailing in an address change with a form and documents

read the "Change of Address" form from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form along with a photocopy of your current driver's license and proof of your new address.

Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and new address. The DPS will not accept a post office box as a residential address. Mail your packet to the DPS office listed on the form — the address varies depending on which region of Texas you live in.

Processing takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a new card; your old license remains valid with the outdated address until you renew it. The address change will show in the DPS system, which is what matters for police stops and vehicle registration.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS driver's license office in Texas with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring the same documents you would mail: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days showing your name and address. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The process takes about 30 minutes from check-in to completion. A DPS employee will verify your documents, update your record, and give you a receipt. Like the mail-in option, you will not receive a new card when ready — your current license stays valid with the old address printed on it until you renew.

In-person visits are useful if you are also renewing your license, changing your name, or if you want to confirm the change was processed before you leave. Some people prefer it for peace of mind, though the online method is faster if you are only changing your address.

What counts as proof of your new address

The Texas DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and bank or credit card statements also work. Some people use a recent insurance bill or a letter from their employer showing their address.

The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy of a photocopy will not work. Post office boxes do not count as residential addresses, so if you are using a PO box temporarily, use a different document that shows a street address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, ask your landlord or mortgage company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and address.

When you need to visit a DPS office instead of changing online or by mail

You must visit a DPS office in person if your license expires within 60 days, if your name has changed since you got your license, or if you need a Real ID-compliant license. You also need an in-person visit if you are changing your gender marker, correcting your date of birth, or updating your organ donor status at the same time.

If your license has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to replace it in person rather than just change the address. The same applies if you are moving out of state and need to surrender your Texas license, though you can change your address before you leave if you are staying in Texas.

How long the address change takes to show up in the system

An online address change takes effect when ready in the DPS database. Police officers and other agencies can see your new address right away if they run your license. A mail-in change takes two to three weeks to process, and an in-person change is when ready.

The physical card in your wallet will still show your old address until you renew your license, which happens every eight years (or five years if you are over 79). This does not cause problems in most situations — police and government agencies check the DPS database, not the card itself. However, some businesses, banks, and insurance companies may ask for a newer card if the address mismatch is large or if you are explore for credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Texas does not legally require you to update your address, but it is a good idea. An outdated address can cause problems with police stops, vehicle registration, insurance claims, and credit applications. Most people update within a few weeks of moving.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. You must renew your license first, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS office. You cannot change the address online or by mail if your license is no longer valid. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity to the DPS office.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

You can use a mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank statement, insurance bill, or a letter from your employer or landlord on official letterhead. The document must show your name, your new address, and be dated within the last 60 days. If you just moved and have none of these yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter confirming your move-in date.

Will I get a new card with my new address on it?

No. Changing your address does not trigger a new card. Your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew your license, which happens every eight years. The DPS database will show your new address, which is what matters for official purposes.

How do I find the DPS office nearest to me?

Use the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Enter your city or zip code to find the nearest driver's license office, hours of operation, and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead or visiting early in the day can reduce your wait.