You can change your Texas driver's license address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address more than once in the past year.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without visiting a driver's license office, as long as you meet a few conditions. You'll need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing.
If your license is expired, if you've already changed your address once in the past 12 months, or if you need to update other information like your name or photo, you'll have to visit a DPS office in person instead. The online option is only for straightforward address changes on valid licenses.
Key Takeaways
- Texas DPS allows address changes online only if your license is current and you have not changed your address in the past year.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to complete the online change.
- The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing, and you receive confirmation by email.
- If your license is expired or you need to change your name, photo, or other details, you must visit a DPS office in person.
- Your new address becomes active when ready after you complete the online process, though your physical license still shows the old address until renewal.
How to change your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under the driver's license section. You will be directed to a find form where you enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will pull up your current license information to confirm your identity.
Once your identity is verified, you'll enter your new address and confirm it. Double-check the spelling and zip code, because mistakes here can delay mail or cause registration documents to go to the wrong place. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. Keep that email for your records.
Your address change takes effect when ready in the DPS system, which means your registration and insurance records can be updated right away. However, your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew it. That's normal and does not cause problems with law enforcement or insurance companies, since they can see the updated address in the system.
When you must visit a DPS office instead
If your driver's license is expired, you cannot use the online process. You'll need to renew your license in person at a DPS office, and you can update your address at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your new address), and proof of identity.
You also cannot change your address online if you have already changed it once in the past 12 months. This rule exists to prevent fraud. If you need to change your address again within that window, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to ask about your options, or visit a local office.
If you need to change your name, update your photo, correct your date of birth, or change your gender marker, those changes require an in-person visit. The online tool handles address changes only.
What counts as proof of residency for in-person visits
If you have to visit a DPS office, bring a document dated within the past 90 days that shows your name and new address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A government check or tax return also counts. The document must be an original or certified copy—a photo of it on your phone is not enough.
If you do not have a document in your name yet (for example, if you just moved and utilities are still in the previous tenant's name), bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, along with a copy of your lease. Some DPS offices also accept a notarized affidavit of residency if you cannot get other proof.
How your address change affects your vehicle registration
Once your driver's license address is updated in the DPS system, your vehicle registration does not automatically change. You still need to update your registration separately with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can do this online, by mail, or at a DMV office.
To change your registration address online, go to the Texas DMV website and use the "Change of Address" tool. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN), your current registration number, and your date of birth. The fee is usually around $5 to $10, depending on how long your registration has left.
If your registration renewal is coming up soon, you can wait and update your address when you renew. If you're moving out of state or need the change when ready for insurance purposes, do it right away. Your insurance company will want to see matching addresses on your license and registration.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit
After you complete the online address change, you'll get a confirmation email within minutes. Your address is active in the DPS system when ready, so insurance companies and law enforcement can see the update right away. You do not have to wait for anything else to happen.
Your physical driver's license card will still show your old address. You do not need to request a new card unless you want one. When your license comes up for renewal (usually every 8 years in Texas), you'll get a new card with your current address printed on it.
If you need a new card sooner for any reason, you can request a duplicate license at a DPS office. There is a small fee, usually around $11. Bring your current license and proof of your new address.
Common mistakes to avoid when changing your address
The most common error is entering your address incorrectly the first time. Make sure you type your street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if you have one), city, state, and zip code exactly as they appear on your lease or utility bill. If you make a typo and do not catch it before submitting, you'll have to visit a DPS office to fix it.
Another mistake is forgetting to update your vehicle registration separately. Your driver's license and registration are two different records. Changing one does not change the other. If they do not match, your insurance company may flag it, and you could have problems if you're pulled over.
Do not assume your insurance company will automatically see your new address. Call your insurance agent or log into your policy online and update it yourself. Insurance companies pull information from DPS and DMV records, but there can be a delay of a few days. It's faster and safer to update it directly with your insurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license expires in the next few months?
No. The online tool only works if your license is currently valid. If it expires within the next few months, you can still use the online tool now, but once it expires you'll have to renew it in person. If your license is already expired, visit a DPS office to renew and update your address at the same time.
What if I moved twice in one year?
You can only change your address online once per 12-month period. If you've already done it once this year, you'll need to visit a DPS office for the second change. Call 1-888-589-6556 to confirm your last address change date, or ask at the office when you visit.
Do I need to change my address if I'm moving out of state?
Yes. You'll need to get a driver's license from your new state and update your vehicle registration there as well. Texas will not keep your address on file if you no longer live here. Start the process with your new state's DMV as soon as you move.
Will my insurance rates change if I update my address?
Your rates might change depending on where you're moving. Insurance companies use zip code and location to calculate premiums. Call your agent before you move to ask how the address change might affect your rate, or check your policy online after you update it.
Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?
No. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) require an in-person visit to change your address. Visit your local DPS office with your CDL, proof of identity, and proof of residency.