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 renewing the entire license. The fastest route is the online system at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. 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 whether you want to avoid a trip or need the change processed when ready.

Your address change takes effect the same day you submit it online or in person. By mail, allow 7 to 10 business days for DPS to process and mail you a replacement license with the new address printed on it. You do not need to surrender your old license — both versions remain valid until your license expires, though you should carry the updated one.

Key Takeaways

  • The online change-of-address tool at the Texas DPS website is free and the fastest option, updating your record when ready without mailing anything.
  • You can also mail Form DL-43 (Change of Address) to the DPS address processing center, though this takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • Visiting a driver's license office in person lets you update your address and receive a replacement license the same day if you pay the $11 fee.
  • Your old license remains valid after you change your address; you do not have to turn it in or wait for a new one to arrive before using your license.
  • You must have your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the "Change of Address" option under the driver's license services menu. You will need your current driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address, review it for accuracy, and submit. The system will confirm the change when ready and update your record in the DPS database.

This method works for any address change within Texas or if you are moving out of state. You do not receive a new physical license card through this route — your record updates, but your old card remains valid. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you will need to pay $11 and either visit a driver's license office or mail in Form DL-43 with payment.

Mailing Form DL-43 to update your address

read Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any driver's license office. Fill in your name, driver's license number, current address, and new address. Sign and date the form, then mail it to the DPS address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $11 if you want a replacement license card with your new address printed on it; if you only want the record updated, you can send the form without payment.

DPS typically processes mailed forms within 7 to 10 business days. If you paid for a replacement card, it will arrive by mail at your new address. If you sent the form without payment, your address record updates but you keep your old card. Either way, your license remains valid during this waiting period.

Updating your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any Texas driver's license office with your current license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days. Tell the clerk you want to change your address. If you want a replacement license card with your new address printed on it, pay the $11 fee. If you only want the record updated, there is no charge.

Same-day replacement cards are available at most offices if you arrive early in the day, though wait times vary by location. Call ahead or check the DPS website to find your nearest office and its hours. Bring your current license and address proof to avoid a second trip.

What counts as proof of your new address

DPS accepts documents dated within the last 30 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Other acceptable documents include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowners or renters insurance policy, or government mail from a state or federal agency.

If you do not have any of these documents yet, you can use a notarized affidavit of residence signed by someone who lives with you or by a notary public. Some offices also accept a letter from a landlord or property manager on official letterhead, though policies vary by location. Call your local DPS office before your visit to confirm what they will accept.

Timing and what to expect after you change your address

Online changes take effect when ready. In-person changes at a DPS office are processed the same day, and you can receive a replacement card before you leave if you pay the $11 fee. Mailed forms take 7 to 10 business days to process, and replacement cards arrive by mail after that.

Your old license remains valid and legal to use after you change your address. You do not need to wait for a new card to arrive or carry both cards. However, if you are stopped by law enforcement or need to show your license for official purposes, having the updated version on hand prevents confusion. If your replacement card does not arrive within 15 days of mailing, contact the DPS address processing center to check the status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move to a new house in Texas?

No, changing your address on your driver's license is not required by law. However, it is a good idea to keep your license address current so that official mail reaches you and your record matches your actual residence. If you are stopped by police, a mismatched address can raise questions.

Can I change my address without getting a new license card?

Yes. The online change-of-address tool updates your record for free without issuing a new card. You can also mail Form DL-43 without paying the $11 fee to update your record only. Your old card remains valid either way.

What if I move out of state — do I still change my Texas address?

You can update your address to an out-of-state location through the online system or by mailing Form DL-43. However, most states require you to get a new driver's license within 30 to 60 days of moving there. Check your new state's requirements before or after you move.

How long does a replacement license card take to arrive by mail?

DPS processes mailed forms within 7 to 10 business days, and the replacement card arrives after that. Total time is usually 2 to 3 weeks from the date you mail the form. If your card does not arrive within 15 days of processing, contact DPS to verify it was mailed.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. Only you can change your address online using your license number and Social Security number. If you mail Form DL-43, you must sign it yourself. At a DPS office, you must be present with your current license and address proof.