You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Texas DPS office
Texas offers three ways to update your address on your driver's license: online through the DPS website (fastest, if your license is current), by mail with a form and proof of residency, or in person at any Driver License office. You do not need to renew your license or pay a fee to change your address — it is a free update that takes effect when ready once processed.
The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the change and whether your license is still valid. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the online or mail routes and must visit a DPS office in person.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option and requires only your driver's license number, date of birth, and a current mailing address.
- Mail-in address changes require Form DL-43 (Change of Address), a proof of residency document dated within 90 days, and take 7 to 10 business days to process.
- In-person address changes at a DPS office take minutes and require your current driver's license and one proof of residency document.
- You must update your address within 30 days of moving to a new residence in Texas, though the change itself is free and does not affect your license expiration date.
Online address change through the DPS website
The Texas DPS website allows you to change your address in minutes if your driver's license is current (not expired). Go to the DPS online services portal, select "Change of Address," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the new mailing address. The system will confirm the change when ready, and you will receive a confirmation number by email.
This method works only if your license has not expired. If your license expired within the last two years, you can still use the online system, but if it expired more than two years ago, you must use the mail or in-person method instead.
After you submit the change online, your address is updated in the DPS system right away. You do not need to carry any documents or visit an office. The updated address will appear on your license the next time you renew it, but your current physical license remains valid with the old address printed on it.
Mail-in address change with Form DL-43
To change your address by mail, read or request Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the Texas DPS website or any DPS office. Complete the form with your name, driver's license number, date of birth, and new address. Attach one proof of residency document dated within the last 90 days — examples include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and new address.
Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the address listed on the DPS website (it varies by region). Do not send your actual driver's license. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date DPS receives your envelope. There is no fee.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not receive confirmation within two weeks, contact the DPS by phone to confirm receipt. The mail-in method works even if your license is expired, as long as it expired within the last two years.
In-person address change at a DPS office
Visit any Texas Driver License office with your current driver's license and one proof of residency document. The proof must show your name and new address and be dated within 90 days — utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations now use online scheduling.
The staff member will update your address in the system on the spot. The change takes effect when ready. Your physical license still shows the old address, but your record in the DPS system reflects the new one. You will not receive a new card in the mail unless you also renew your license.
Processing time at the office is usually 5 to 15 minutes. If the office is busy, wait times can be longer. Check the DPS office locator on the website to find the nearest location and current hours.
Proof of residency documents Texas DPS accepts
Your proof of residency must be an original document (not a copy), show your name and new address, and be dated within 90 days of when you submit it. The following documents meet this requirement:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental agreement
- Mortgage statement or property tax statement
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy (homeowner's or renter's)
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, or court document)
- Paycheck stub showing your current address
Documents that do not work include driver's licenses, ID cards, passports, or anything that is a copy or photocopy. If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date.
Timeline and when the address takes effect
If you change your address online, the update is when ready — your DPS record reflects the new address within minutes. If you mail the form, expect 7 to 10 business days from receipt. If you visit an office in person, the change takes effect the same day.
Your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew your license. The address in the DPS computer system is what law enforcement and other agencies see when they scan or look up your license. Your renewal notice from DPS will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed.
Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a new address within 30 days of moving. Changing your address does not extend or shorten your license expiration date — your license remains valid until the date printed on the card.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not send your actual driver's license in the mail — mail only the completed form and proof of residency. DPS does not need your card to update your address, and sending it creates a risk of loss or delay.
Do not use a document older than 90 days as proof of residency. If you moved recently and your utility bill or lease is dated before your move-in date, ask for a new statement or letter from the company or landlord.
If you are changing your address at the same time you renew your license, you can do both in one visit or process. If you only want to change your address, do not request a renewal — the two are separate transactions, and a renewal costs a fee and requires a new photo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a new driver's license card when I change my address?
No. Changing your address is free and does not require a new card. Your physical license will still show the old address, but the DPS system will have your new address. Your license remains valid and does not need to be replaced unless you choose to renew it.
What if I moved out of state but still have a valid Texas driver's license?
You should update your address to your new out-of-state address through the online system or by mail. However, if you plan to stay out of state permanently, you may want to surrender your Texas license and obtain a license in your new state instead. Contact the DPS for guidance on your specific situation.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes, if your license expired within the last two years. You can use the online system, mail, or visit an office in person. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew it before you can change the address online; the mail and in-person methods may still work — contact DPS to confirm.
How long does it take to receive my renewal notice at my new address?
Once your address change is processed, DPS will mail your renewal notice to the new address about 90 days before your license expires. If you do not receive it within a reasonable time, contact DPS to confirm the address was updated correctly.
What if my proof of residency document does not have my full name on it?
The document must show your name as it appears on your driver's license. If a utility bill or bank statement shows a shortened version or nickname, bring an additional document that confirms the name matches — a lease agreement or mortgage statement usually works. When in doubt, call the DPS office before you visit.