Where to report your address change to the Texas DMV

You can change your address with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles through three routes: online at the Texas DMV website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. The online method is fastest and costs nothing. You'll need your driver's license or ID number, your current address on file, and your new address. The system processes most changes within one to two business days.

If you prefer mail, read the DL-43 form (Address Change) from the Texas DMV website, fill it out, and send it to the address listed on the form. Mail processing takes longer — typically five to seven business days — and you'll need to include a copy of your driver's license or ID. In-person changes at any Texas DMV office are processed when ready, though you may wait in line depending on how busy the office is that day.

Your vehicle registration address and your driver's license address are separate records in the Texas system. Changing one does not automatically change the other. If you own a vehicle, you'll need to update both records separately to avoid mail delivery problems and registration renewal notices going to your old address.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas DMV online portal is the fastest way to change your address and requires only your driver's license number and the new address.
  • Your driver's license address and vehicle registration address are separate — you must update both if you own a vehicle.
  • Mail-in changes using the DL-43 form take five to seven business days, while in-person changes at a DMV office are when ready.
  • You have 30 days from moving to notify the Texas DMV of your new address, though changing it sooner prevents mail delays.

Changing your driver's license address online

Go to the Texas DMV website and select "Change Address" under the driver's license section. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will display your current address on file and ask you to enter your new address. Review the information carefully before submitting — once you confirm, the change is recorded when ready.

You do not need to pay a fee for an address change. The system will send you a confirmation email if you provide one. Your current driver's license remains valid at your old address; Texas does not require you to get a new card just because you moved. When you renew your license later, the new card will show your updated address.

Changing your vehicle registration address

Vehicle registration address changes are handled separately from your driver's license. You can change your registration address online through the Texas DMV website, by mail using the VTR-130 form (process for Title or Registration), or in person at a DMV office. Like the driver's license change, there is no fee for updating your address on an existing registration.

If you have an active vehicle loan or lease, your lienholder (the bank or finance company) may need to approve the address change. Check your loan documents or contact your lender before submitting the change. Registration renewal notices and any vehicle-related mail from the state will go to whatever address is on file, so updating this promptly prevents you from missing renewal important date.

What happens if you don't update your address

The Texas DMV will continue sending registration renewal notices, vehicle inspection reminders, and other official mail to your old address. If you miss a renewal important date because the notice never reached you, your registration will lapse. Driving with an expired registration can result in a traffic citation and a fine.

Insurance companies also use your address on file with the DMV. If your address doesn't match your insurance policy, you may face coverage issues or claim denials. Some insurers will not renew your policy if the address mismatch persists. Updating your DMV address prevents these cascading problems.

Changing your address by mail

read the DL-43 form from the Texas DMV website for driver's license changes or the VTR-130 form for registration changes. Fill out the form completely, including your current address, new address, and driver's license or vehicle identification number. Make a copy of the front and back of your driver's license or ID and include it with the form.

Mail the form and copy to the address shown on the form — this varies by region, so check the form itself for the correct mailing address. Include a return address so the DMV can contact you if there are problems. Processing takes five to seven business days from the date the DMV receives your mail. Keep a copy of what you sent for your records.

Changing your address in person at a DMV office

Bring your current driver's license or ID and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address dated within the last 60 days. The DMV office will process the change when ready and give you a receipt.

You do not need an appointment for an address change at most Texas DMV offices, but wait times vary. Check the Texas DMV website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go. Some offices are less busy during mid-morning on weekdays. If you need to change both your driver's license and registration address, you can do both in one visit.

Timeline and what to expect

Texas law gives you 30 days from the date you move to report your new address to the DMV. This is not a hard important date that triggers a penalty, but it is the timeframe the state expects. The sooner you change your address, the sooner your mail will reach you at the correct location.

Online changes take one to two business days. Mail takes five to seven business days. In-person changes are when ready. If you're moving and need your registration renewal notice to reach you at your new address, change your address before the renewal important date on your current registration. If you're unsure when your registration renews, check your registration card or the Texas DMV website using your vehicle identification number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I'm just moving within Texas?

Yes. The Texas DMV requires you to report any address change, whether you're moving across town or across the state. This keeps your registration and driver's license records current so you receive official mail at the right location.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to notify Texas?

If you no longer live in Texas and have moved permanently, you should surrender your Texas driver's license and register your vehicle in your new state. Contact the DMV in your new state for their requirements. If you're moving temporarily but keeping your Texas license and registration, you can update your address with the Texas DMV.

Can I change my address if my license or registration is suspended or expired?

Yes. Address changes are processed independently of suspension or expiration status. However, you should also renew your license or registration if it has expired, as driving with an expired license or registration is illegal in Texas.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance rates?

An address change alone does not affect your driving record or insurance rates. However, keeping your address current with both the DMV and your insurance company prevents coverage gaps and ensures your insurer can contact you about policy changes or claims.

What if I don't have proof of my new address for an in-person change?

You'll need to provide an official document showing your name and new address dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have one yet, you can use a lease agreement, utility bill, mortgage statement, or bank statement. If you're unable to get any of these, contact your local DMV office to ask what alternative documents they will accept.