Where to Update Your License and What You'll Need

You can update your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The fastest way is to go in person with your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If you're changing your name, you'll also need a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Some updates can be done by mail or online through the DPS website, but only if you're renewing rather than making a change. If you're updating your address, name, or other information on an active license, you'll need to visit a DPS office in person. The office will take a new photo, update your record, and issue a new card on the spot.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You can check wait times and book an appointment online at the DPS website before you go, which usually cuts your time in half.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Texas DPS office in person to change your name, address, or other information on an active license.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number.
  • If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change.
  • Book an appointment online before you go to reduce your wait time.
  • Your new license will be issued the same day you visit the office.

Updating Your Address

An address change is one of the most common updates. You don't need to renew your license to change your address—you just need to notify DPS. Bring your current license, a piece of mail or utility bill from your new address dated within the last 90 days, and your Social Security number.

The DPS will update your record and issue a new card with your new address. Your license number stays the same. The whole process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, depending on how busy it is.

Changing Your Name on Your License

If you've changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to update your license. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and your Social Security number. You'll also need proof of residency.

The DPS will take a new photo and issue a new license with your updated name. Your license number will change. This process takes about 20 to 40 minutes at the office.

If you've lost your certified copy of the document, you can order one from the county clerk's office where the document was filed. This usually takes a few days and costs between $5 and $25, depending on the county.

Correcting Errors on Your License

If there's a mistake on your license—a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect address—you can have it corrected at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of the correct information (a birth certificate for date of birth, a marriage certificate for a name change, or a utility bill for an address), and your Social Security number.

The DPS will verify the error and issue a corrected license. You won't pay a fee for a correction if the error was made by DPS. If the error was on your original process and you didn't catch it, DPS may charge a replacement fee, which is typically $16 for a standard license.

Updating Your License After a Move Out of State and Back

If you moved out of Texas and got a license in another state, you'll need to explore for a new Texas license when you return. You can't straightforward reactivate your old one. Bring proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), your out-of-state license, your Social Security number, and proof of your legal name if it has changed.

You'll take a new written test and vision test, and DPS will issue a new license. The cost is the same as a standard renewal: $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. The process takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

What Happens If You're Renewing Instead of Updating

If your license is expiring and you also need to make a change, you can do both at the same time. A renewal with changes costs the same as a renewal alone—$16 for four years or $32 for eight years. You'll bring the same documents as you would for an update, plus your expiring license.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it in person at a DPS office. There's no grace period in Texas—an expired license is not valid for driving. You'll need to renew before you can legally drive again.

How Long Your Updated License Takes to Arrive

When you update your license in person at a DPS office, you receive your new card the same day. The office prints it on site and hands it to you before you leave. You can drive with your old license until the new one arrives if you're waiting for a mailed replacement, but this rarely happens when you update in person.

If you renew by mail (which is only available if you're not making other changes), your new license will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old license remains valid for driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my license online?

You can renew your license online if it's not expired and you're not making any changes to your information. For updates like a name change, address change, or correction, you must visit a DPS office in person. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $16 or $32 depending on the license length you choose.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

Proof of residency must be dated within 90 days and show your name and current address. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, you can use a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. If you have none of these, contact your local DPS office to ask what alternative documents they accept.

Do I need an appointment to update my license?

Appointments are not required, but booking one online before you visit usually reduces your wait time from 30 to 60 minutes down to 15 to 20 minutes. You can walk in without an appointment, but you may wait longer during busy times like lunch hours or the end of the month.

What if my name change document isn't certified?

DPS requires a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. A photocopy or uncertified version will not be accepted. You can order a certified copy from the county clerk's office where the document was filed, usually for $5 to $25.

Can someone else update my license for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DPS office to update your license. DPS will take a new photo and verify your identity. You cannot send someone else to do this on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.