You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
Texas allows you to update your driver's license address without renewing your license itself. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a new card mailed to you. Online is fastest for most people; in-person is required only if you need an when ready replacement card or have specific document issues.
Your address change takes effect when ready in the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) system once processed, even if your physical card still shows the old address. Law enforcement can see the current address in their system during a traffic stop. However, if you plan to move again soon or need the card to reflect your address for identification purposes, you may want to request a replacement card at the same time.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option and requires only your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- By mail, you send a completed DL-43 form with proof of your new address to the DPS; processing takes two to three weeks.
- In-person changes at any DPS office take minutes, and you can request a replacement card with your new address for a $16 fee.
- You do not need to renew your license to change your address, and the change is recorded in the system when ready even if your physical card is not replaced.
- Proof of residency must show your name and current address; acceptable documents include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements dated within the last 90 days.
Changing Your Address Online Through the DPS Website
The online method is available through the Texas DPS website and requires no documents to be mailed or scanned. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using these details and then prompt you to enter your new address.
After you submit your new address online, the change is recorded in the DPS database within minutes. You will receive a confirmation email. Your physical driver's license card will continue to show your old address until it expires or you renew it, but your record in the system will reflect the new address when ready. This method is free and does not require you to provide proof of residency.
The online option works best if you do not need a new card printed with your updated address right away. If you want a replacement card showing your new address, you will need to use the in-person or mail method instead.
Changing Your Address by Mail
To change your address by mail, read and complete the DL-43 form (process for Texas Driver License) from the Texas DPS website. You do not need to fill in every field on the form—only complete the sections for your personal information and your new address. Include one document that shows your name and new address dated within the last 90 days.
Acceptable proof of residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government-issued mail showing your name and address. Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the DPS address listed on the form. Processing typically takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a new card unless you specifically request one and pay the $16 replacement fee; if you do not request a replacement, only your address record will be updated.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within four weeks, contact the DPS to confirm receipt.
Changing Your Address In Person at a DPS Office
Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office with your current driver's license and one document showing your name and new address dated within the last 90 days. The staff member will update your address in the system on the spot. This takes about five to ten minutes and is free.
If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, tell the staff member before they process your request. The replacement card costs $16 and will be mailed to your new address within seven to ten business days. If you do not request a replacement, your address will be updated in the system but your physical card will still show the old address.
In-person visits are the best option if you need the address change recorded when ready and want a new card, or if you have questions about which documents are acceptable for your situation.
What Documents Count as Proof of Residency
Your proof of residency must show both your name and your new address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. The following documents are accepted by the Texas DPS:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental agreement
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank statement or credit card statement
- Insurance policy (homeowner's, renter's, or auto)
- Government-issued mail (tax return, voter registration, court document)
- Paycheck stub showing your address
If your name does not appear on a document but the address is correct, that document will not work. For example, a utility bill in a roommate's name will not count even if you live at that address. If you are having trouble finding an acceptable document, call your local DPS office before you visit or mail in your request.
Timeline and Fees for Address Changes
The cost and timeline depend on which method you choose. Online changes are free and take effect within minutes. Mail-in changes are free but take two to three weeks. In-person changes are free if you only update your address; a replacement card costs $16 and takes seven to ten business days to arrive by mail.
If you need your address changed before a specific date—for example, before a court appearance or before you move again—plan accordingly. The online method is the fastest for getting your record updated. If you need a physical card with the new address in hand quickly, in-person is your only option, and you will have the replacement card within about two weeks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your physical card is invalid while it shows an old address. Your address in the DPS system is what matters for most purposes, and that updates when ready. Police officers and other officials can see your current address in their system even if your card shows something different.
Do not submit a proof of residency document that is older than 90 days. The DPS will reject it, and your process will be delayed. Check the date on your document before you mail it or bring it to an office.
Do not confuse an address change with a license renewal. They are separate transactions. An address change does not extend your license expiration date, and renewing your license does not automatically update your address—you have to do both if both are needed.
If you are moving out of state, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state. A Texas address change will not help you if you no longer live in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new card when I change my address?
No. You can update your address in the DPS system without requesting a replacement card. Your record will be current even though your physical card still shows the old address. However, if you want a card that reflects your new address, you can request a replacement for $16 when you change your address in person or by mail.
How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?
Online changes take effect within minutes. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks. In-person changes are recorded when ready. Your address in the DPS database is what matters for official purposes, not the address printed on your physical card.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?
Bank statements, credit card statements, insurance policies, mortgage statements, and government-issued mail all count as proof of residency if they show your name and address and are dated within the last 90 days. If you cannot find any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask about other options before you explore.
Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?
No. The online address change is available only for standard driver's licenses. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must change your address in person at a DPS office or by mail using the DL-43 form.
What happens if I move and do not update my address?
Your license remains valid, but your address in the DPS system will be outdated. This can cause problems if you are pulled over, if you need to renew your license, or if you use your license for identification. It is best to update your address within a reasonable time after you move.