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 license or paying a fee. The fastest way is online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if your address change is within Texas. If you're moving out of state or prefer to handle it in person, you can visit a DPS driver's license office or mail in a form. You do not need to take a new photo or pass a test — the address update takes just a few minutes.
The method you choose depends on whether you have internet access, how quickly you need the change, and whether your move is within Texas or to another state. Most people finish the online process in under five minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes minutes if you are moving within Texas.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
- If you are moving out of Texas, you must visit a DPS office in person or mail in a change-of-address form, because the online system only works for in-state moves.
- Your updated address appears on your license when ready after an online change, though the physical card in your wallet still shows the old address until it expires and you renew.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change Address" option under driver's license services. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity using this information and then ask you to enter your new Texas address.
Once you submit the change, the DPS updates your record when ready. Your new address is now on file with the state, and you can use it for official purposes right away. However, the physical license card in your wallet will still show your old address until your license expires and you renew it. If you need the new address to appear on the card itself before renewal, you will have to visit a DPS office and request a replacement card.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time.
Tell the staff member you want to change your address. They will update your record and can issue you a replacement card with the new address on it the same day, though this usually costs a small fee (typically $11 to $20). If you only want the address updated in the system without a new card, the change is free and takes just a few minutes.
Changing your address by mail
read the "Change of Address" form from the Texas DPS website (form DL-43). Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your current driver's license and proof of your new address (the same documents accepted in person).
Processing by mail takes longer than online or in-person — typically two to three weeks. Your address will be updated in the DPS system, but again, your physical card will not change until you renew your license. If you need a replacement card with your new address sooner, you can visit a DPS office after the mail-in change has been processed.
What counts as proof of your new address
The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Common examples include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. Government-issued mail like a tax return or voter registration card also works.
If you do not have any of these documents yet — for example, if you just moved and utilities are not yet in your name — contact the DPS office you plan to visit and ask what alternatives they accept. Some offices will work with you on a case-by-case basis.
Changing your address when you move out of state
If you are moving out of Texas, you cannot use the online address change system. Instead, visit a DPS office in person or mail in your change-of-address form. The DPS will update your record, but keep in mind that your Texas license remains valid in Texas and most other states for identification purposes.
When you move to a new state, that state will eventually require you to get a driver's license issued by them. The timeline varies by state — some require it within 30 days, others within 60 days. Your Texas license will still be valid until it expires, but you will need to follow your new state's rules for getting a local license. Check your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for their specific requirements.
Timeline and what to expect after you change your address
An online address change takes effect when ready. Your new address is in the DPS system right away and will show up if a police officer or government agency looks up your license. The physical card you carry will still show your old address, but that does not affect the validity of the change.
An in-person change also takes effect when ready. If you request a replacement card at the same time, you will usually receive it within one to two weeks by mail. A mail-in change takes two to three weeks to process. During this time, your old address is still on file, so if you need the change to be official quickly, visiting a DPS office is faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Texas law requires you to notify the DPS of an address change within a reasonable time after moving. While there is no specific important date, updating your address promptly is important for official records and to avoid issues if you are pulled over or need to use your license for identification.
Will I get a new license card if I change my address online?
No. An online address change updates your record in the DPS system, but your physical card keeps the old address until your license expires and you renew it. If you want a new card with the updated address, you must visit a DPS office and request a replacement card, which usually costs a fee.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You can update an expired license's address online or by mail using the same methods. However, if you visit a DPS office, they may ask you to renew your license at the same time. Check the DPS website or call your local office before visiting to confirm their policy on expired licenses.
What if I do not have proof of my new address yet?
Contact the DPS office you plan to visit and explain your situation. Some offices will accept alternative documents or may allow you to update your address with a temporary arrangement. Having at least one document with your name and address dated within 60 days makes the process smoother.
How long does it take to change my address by mail?
Mail-in address changes typically take two to three weeks to process. During this time, your old address remains on file in the DPS system. If you need the change to take effect faster, visiting a DPS office in person is quicker.