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. The fastest route is the online system at Texas DPS's website, which takes about 10 minutes if you have your license number and current address handy. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a form to DPS or walk into any driver's license office in person. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want to avoid a trip to an office.
Your address must match what the state has on file for vehicle registration, insurance, and voting records to stay in sync. Updating it promptly also matters if you move and get pulled over — an officer will see your old address on your license, which can create confusion or questions about whether you actually live where you claim.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change at the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes if you have your driver's license number and current address.
- By mail, you send Form DL-43 with proof of your new address to the DPS address listed on the form, and the change typically takes two to three weeks.
- In person, you visit any Texas driver's license office with proof of residency and your current license, and the change is recorded when ready.
- You do not need a new physical card unless your license is expiring soon or you want one with your updated address printed on it.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and new address.
Changing your address online through Texas DPS
Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and look for the online address change 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 date of birth to log in. The system will ask you to confirm your current address on file and then enter your new one.
Once you submit the change online, DPS updates its records when ready. You do not receive a new physical card — your existing license remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the state's database shows your new address. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can order a replacement card through the same online system for a fee, though this is optional.
The online method works only if your information matches what DPS already has on file. If there is a discrepancy or if you cannot access the online system, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Mailing a form to update your address
read or request Form DL-43 from the Texas DPS website. This form asks for your current license number, your new address, and your signature. You will also need to include proof that you live at the new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work, as long as it shows your name and the address you are moving to.
Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the address listed on the form itself, which is the DPS mail processing center. Include a copy of both sides of your driver's license if possible. DPS typically processes mail requests within two to three weeks, though during busy periods it can take longer.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within a month, contact the DPS customer service line to confirm the form was received.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any Texas driver's license office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. The office staff will update your address in the system on the spot, and you will receive a receipt confirming the change.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can request one at the same time — there is a fee for this, but it is optional.
Bring only the documents you need. You do not need to bring your Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate for an address change alone.
What counts as proof of your new address
Texas DPS accepts several documents as proof that you live at your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone) in your name is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. Bank statements, credit card statements, and government mail (like tax documents or voter registration cards) are acceptable too.
The document must show your name and your new address, and it should be recent — generally from the last 60 days, though DPS does not always enforce this strictly. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease or a letter from your landlord on official letterhead can work in the meantime.
If you are moving to a new address but do not yet have a document in your name at that address, ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a letter confirming your move-in date. Some offices will accept this temporarily while you wait for a bill to arrive.
Whether you need a new physical card
You do not need a new driver's license card just to change your address. Your current license remains valid and legal to use, even though the address printed on it is outdated. The state's database will show your correct address, which is what law enforcement and government agencies see when they look you up.
However, if your license is expiring within the next year or two, you may want to renew it at the same time so you get a card with your current address on it. If you prefer to have your new address printed on your card right away, you can order a replacement card through the online system or request one in person at a DPS office — both involve a fee.
A replacement card takes about two weeks to arrive by mail if you order it online, or you may be able to get one the same day if you request it in person at certain offices, though this varies by location.
Updating your address with other agencies
Changing your address with DPS does not automatically update it with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles for vehicle registration, your insurance company, or your voter registration. You will need to contact each of these separately to keep your records consistent.
For vehicle registration, renew or update your registration through the Texas DMV website or a local county tax assessor's office. Your insurance company has its own process — call or log into your account to update your address there. To update your voter registration, contact your county clerk's office or use the Texas Secretary of State's online voter registration system.
Keeping all these records in sync helps avoid problems if you are pulled over, receive mail from government agencies, or need to renew your registration or license.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for an address change to show up in the system?
If you change your address online, it updates when ready in DPS records. By mail, it typically takes two to three weeks. In person, the change is recorded right away and you get a receipt. However, other agencies like your insurance company or voter registration may take longer to update.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes, you can update your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. DPS still needs your current contact information on file. However, you cannot renew or get a replacement card until the suspension or revocation is cleared.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Texas license?
You should update your address to your new out-of-state address if you plan to keep your Texas license temporarily. However, most states require you to get a license in your new state within a certain period — typically 30 to 60 days. Check your new state's requirements to see when you must switch.
Do I need to change my address before my license expires?
No, but it is a good idea. When you renew your license, you will need to provide your current address anyway. Updating it now keeps your records current and avoids confusion if you are stopped by law enforcement before your renewal date.
What if the proof of residency document is in my spouse's name?
DPS requires the document to show your name. If you just moved and only have a document in your spouse's name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter confirming you live there, or wait for a bill to arrive in your name. Some offices may accept a lease with both names on it.