What you need to do to change your Texas driver's license
You can change your Texas driver's license in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail for certain changes, or online through the DPS website for limited updates. The method depends on what you're changing — your address, name, or other information — and whether you need a new photo or can keep your current one.
Most changes require you to visit a DPS office in person and bring documents that prove your identity and the change itself. Some updates, like an address change, can be done online or by mail without a new photo. If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need the legal document proving the change.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be done online through the DPS website or by mail without visiting an office or paying a fee.
- Name changes require an in-person visit, a legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and a new photo.
- You can renew and change information at the same time, but a renewal costs money while some changes do not.
- DPS offices accept appointments through their website, which is faster than walk-ins during busy times.
- You must bring original or certified copies of documents — photocopies are not accepted for most changes.
Changing your address without visiting an office
An address change is the easiest update because you can do it online or by mail without a fee. Go to the DPS website, log into your account, and update your address directly if you have a valid Texas driver's license or ID card. The change takes effect when ready, and you don't need a new card printed.
If you prefer to mail the change, send a signed letter with your name, driver's license number, old address, and new address to the DPS address listed on their website. Include a copy of a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Mail processing takes about two weeks.
Changing your name with a legal document
A name change requires you to visit a DPS office in person and bring the legal document that proves the change. If you married, bring your marriage certificate. If you divorced or had a name change through court, bring the divorce decree or court order. The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies will not be accepted.
You'll also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your Social Security number, such as your Social Security card or a W-2 form. DPS will take a new photo for your updated license. There is no fee for a name change if your license is still valid; you only pay if you're renewing at the same time.
Processing a name change takes about two weeks after your visit. You can use your old license until the new one arrives, but it will show your former name.
Renewing your license while making changes
If your license is expiring soon or has already expired, you can renew it and change your information at the same time. A renewal costs money — the amount depends on whether you renew for four or six years — but the change itself adds no extra cost. You'll need to bring the same documents as you would for the change alone, plus your current or expired license.
If you're renewing online through the DPS website, you can only update your address; you cannot change your name online. Name changes must be done in person at a DPS office. If you're renewing by mail, you can include a name change request, but you'll need to send the legal document with your process and will receive a new photo card by mail.
How to schedule a DPS office visit
Most DPS offices now require or strongly recommend appointments to reduce wait times. Visit the DPS website, select your county and the nearest office, and choose an available time slot. You can usually book an appointment two to four weeks in advance. If no appointments are available, the office may accept walk-ins, but you may wait several hours.
Bring all required documents in a folder or envelope so they don't get lost or damaged. Arrive 10 minutes early with your documents ready to show. If you're changing your name, have your legal document on top so the clerk can see it when ready.
Documents you'll need for each type of change
| Type of Change | Documents Required | Where to Do It | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Address only | Current license; proof of new address (utility bill, lease, bank statement dated within 60 days) | Online, by mail, or in person | Free |
| Name change | Current license; marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order (original or certified copy); proof of Social Security number | In person at DPS office | Free (if not renewing) |
| Name and address together | Current license; legal name document; proof of new address; proof of Social Security number | In person at DPS office | Free (if not renewing) |
| Renewal with changes | Current or expired license; documents for the change you're making | In person, by mail, or online (address only) | Renewal fee applies |
What happens if your document is not certified
DPS requires original or certified copies of legal documents like marriage certificates and court orders. A certified copy has a seal or stamp from the issuing office and is signed by an official. A photocopy or a document you printed from an online database is not accepted.
If you have a marriage certificate or divorce decree, contact the county clerk's office where it was issued and request certified copies. Most counties charge a small fee per copy and can mail them to you within one to two weeks. Some counties offer in-person pickup the same day. Keep extra certified copies for your records — you may need them for other purposes like changing your name with your bank or employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license is expired?
No. The DPS online system only works if your license is currently valid. If your license has expired, you must renew it first, either in person or by mail, before you can change your address online. You can do both at the same time in person at a DPS office.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
Processing takes about two weeks after your DPS office visit or after DPS receives your mail process. The card is then mailed to your address on file. Total time from visit to receiving your card is usually three to four weeks. You can use your old license until the new one arrives.
Do I need a new photo if I'm only changing my address?
No. Address changes do not require a new photo. If you change your name or renew your license, you will get a new photo. If you change your address online or by mail, your current photo stays on file.
What if I got married but don't have my marriage certificate yet?
Contact the county clerk's office in the county where you were married and request a certified copy. Processing usually takes one to two weeks. You cannot change your name with DPS until you have the certified document in hand. Some counties offer rush processing for an extra fee.
Can I change my license information by phone?
No. DPS does not process changes by phone. You can change your address online or by mail, or schedule an in-person appointment at a DPS office for name changes and other updates. You can call DPS to ask questions about what documents you need, but the change itself must be submitted in person, by mail, or online.