Where to update your Texas driver's license

You can update your Texas driver's license in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or online through the DPS website for certain changes. The online option is fastest for address updates, name changes after marriage, and organ donor status changes — you can complete these without visiting an office. For other updates like a new photo, correcting your license class, or changing your sex designation, you must go in person.

To find the DPS office nearest you, visit the DPS website and use their office locator tool. Most offices operate Monday through Friday, though some have Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now use a reservation system to manage wait times — check your local office's page before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Address and name changes can be done online through the DPS website without visiting an office, but a new photo or sex designation change requires an in-person visit.
  • Bring your current Texas driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and any documents supporting the change you are making.
  • An address change costs nothing, but a replacement license due to damage or a new photo costs $16 for a standard license or $32 for a Real ID.
  • Processing times vary: online changes take one to two business days, and in-person updates are usually completed the same day, though your new card arrives by mail in seven to ten business days.

What documents you need to bring

Your current Texas driver's license is required for any update. You will also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days. If you are changing your name, bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change.

If you are updating your sex designation, Texas requires a statement from a physician or mental health professional confirming your sex designation. This can be a letter on the provider's letterhead or a completed form — the DPS website lists the exact requirements. Bring the original or a certified copy.

If your license is damaged, expired, or lost, bring what you have. For a lost license, you may need to sign a statement under penalty of perjury that you no longer possess it.

Online updates: address, name, and organ donor status

Log into your account on the DPS website using your driver's license number and date of birth. You can change your mailing address, residential address, name (if you have a marriage certificate or court order), and organ donor preference without leaving home. Upload a photo of your supporting document — the system will guide you through this step.

The DPS processes online requests within one to two business days. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address if you changed it. You can check the status of your request by logging back into your account.

Not all changes are available online. If the option you need does not appear in your account, you must visit a DPS office in person.

In-person updates at a DPS office

Arrive with your documents and your current license. Tell the clerk which update you need. They will take a new photo (unless you are only changing your address online), verify your documents, and collect any fee. Most updates are completed while you wait, though the physical card arrives by mail in seven to ten business days.

Bring your documents in original form or as certified copies. The DPS staff will not accept photocopies for name changes, sex designation changes, or address changes if you do not have proof of residency with you. If you are unsure whether your document will be accepted, call the office ahead of time.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less busy early in the morning on weekdays. If your office uses a reservation system, book a time slot online before you go.

Fees for license updates

An address change costs nothing. A replacement license (for a new photo, corrected information, or a damaged card) costs $16 for a standard driver's license or $32 for a Real ID. Name changes and sex designation changes are treated as replacements and carry the same fee.

Payment methods accepted at DPS offices include cash, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have limits on which cards they accept, so bring cash as a backup if possible.

If you are renewing your license at the same time as making an update, you pay only the renewal fee, not both fees. The renewal fee is $33 for a standard license or $59 for a Real ID, valid for eight years.

Timeline: when your updated license arrives

If you make changes online, your updated license is mailed within seven to ten business days after approval. If you update in person, the new card is mailed within the same timeframe. You can use your old license until the new one arrives.

If you need to prove your updated information before the new card arrives, ask for a receipt at the DPS office. Some offices provide a temporary document you can carry, though this varies by location. Call ahead to ask whether your office offers this.

If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS to check on the status. Have your driver's license number and the date you made the update ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my address online if I just moved out of state?

No. The online system only works if your new address is still in Texas. If you have moved to another state, you must explore for a driver's license in that state. You can surrender your Texas license by mail or in person at a DPS office.

What if my name change document is from another country?

You will need an English translation certified by a translator. Bring both the original document and the certified translation to the DPS office. Some offices may require additional verification — call ahead to confirm what they need.

How long does a sex designation change take?

In-person updates are usually completed the same day, and your new license is mailed within seven to ten business days. The DPS does not require a court order for a sex designation change — only a statement from a physician or licensed mental health professional.

Can I update my license if it is suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You can update your address or name while it is suspended, but you cannot get a new photo or replacement card. Contact the DPS to learn how to reinstate your license first.

What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot prove my identity?

You do not need a Social Security card to update your license. Bring your current Texas driver's license and proof of your address. If you are changing your name, bring the marriage certificate or court order. The DPS will use your existing license as proof of identity.