You cannot change your name on a Texas driver's license entirely online
Texas does not offer a fully online name change process for driver's licenses. You must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, but you can prepare most of your documents and paperwork before you go. The in-person visit is required because DPS staff must verify your identity and take a new photo.
The process takes about 30 minutes at the office if you have all required documents. Processing time for your new license is typically 7 to 10 business days if you request standard mail delivery, or you can pay extra to receive it the same day at some locations.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS office in person with a certified copy of your name change court order or marriage certificate.
- Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and the legal document showing your name change.
- The fee for a name change on your license is $16 for a standard renewal or $31 for a duplicate issued the same day.
- You can schedule your DPS office visit online through the Texas DPS website to avoid waiting in line.
What legal documents you need to bring
Texas requires proof that your name change is legal. This means you must have one of the following documents in hand when you visit the DPS office:
- A certified copy of a court order granting a name change (from any Texas district court)
- An original or certified copy of a marriage certificate showing your new name
- An original or certified copy of a divorce decree showing your new name
- An original or certified copy of an adoption decree
The document must be an official certified copy with the court seal or issuing agency seal. A photocopy or uncertified version will not be accepted. If your name change came from a court outside Texas, you still need the certified copy of that order — DPS will accept name change orders from any state.
If you lost your original document, you can request a certified copy from the court that issued it or the vital records office in the county where the event occurred. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes 5 to 10 business days by mail.
Documents to bring to the DPS office
Bring these items with you on the day of your visit:
| Document | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of name change order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree | Proof that your name change is legal |
| Current Texas driver's license | Identification and to show your current license number |
| Proof of current Texas residency | DPS requires this for all license transactions |
| Social Security card or number | DPS verifies your Social Security record matches your name |
For proof of residency, DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days and showing your current address. A government-issued ID with your address also works.
How to schedule your DPS office visit online
Visit the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov and look for the "Scheduling" or "Online Appointment" link. You will select your county, the type of transaction (name change on license), and available time slots at offices near you.
Scheduling online typically shows you available appointments 30 days in advance. If no appointments are available in your area, check back daily — cancellations open up regularly. You can also walk into any DPS office without an appointment, but wait times are often 1 to 3 hours.
When you schedule online, you will receive a confirmation email with your appointment time and a list of documents to bring. Print this confirmation or save it on your phone to show at the office.
What happens at the DPS office
When you arrive, a DPS employee will review your legal name change document and your current license. They will verify that the name on your document matches the name you want on your new license. You will answer standard questions about your address, height, and any corrections needed on your license.
DPS will take a new photo for your license. You cannot use a photo from a previous license or bring your own. The photo must meet DPS standards: no sunglasses, no hats, and a plain background.
You will pay the fee at the counter. A standard name change costs $16 if you are renewing your license at the same time, or $31 for a duplicate license if your current license is not yet expired. If your license is expired, the renewal fee is $25 to $48 depending on how many years you are renewing for.
When your new license will arrive
After you leave the DPS office, your new license is printed and mailed to your address. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Some DPS offices offer same-day issuance for an additional $15 fee — ask the employee at the counter whether your location offers this option.
Your current license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to use it for identification and driving. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to DPS if they ask you to.
Name changes from marriage or divorce
If you changed your name through marriage, bring your original or certified marriage certificate. The certificate must show both your maiden name and married name. If you changed your name through divorce, bring the certified divorce decree that shows your new name.
You do not need a separate court order for a name change through marriage or divorce — the marriage certificate or divorce decree is sufficient legal proof. However, if your marriage certificate or divorce decree is lost, you will need to request a certified copy from the vital records office in the county where you were married or divorced.
If you were married outside Texas, you can still use your out-of-state marriage certificate as long as it is an official certified copy with the state seal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my license if my court order is from another state?
Yes. DPS accepts certified name change orders from any state court. Bring the certified copy of the order with you to the DPS office. The order must have the court seal or state seal on it.
What if I do not have a certified copy of my name change document?
You must obtain a certified copy before you visit DPS. Contact the court that issued the order or the vital records office in the county where the event occurred. Request a certified copy by mail or in person. This usually takes 5 to 10 business days and costs $10 to $25.
Do I have to renew my license to change my name, or can I just change the name?
You can change your name without renewing your license if your current license is not expired. The fee for a name change only is $16. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at the same time, which costs $25 to $48 depending on the renewal period.
What if I cannot get to a DPS office in person?
Texas does not offer a mail-in or remote option for name changes. You must visit a DPS office in person. However, you can schedule an appointment online to minimize your wait time, and the visit usually takes 30 minutes or less if you have all documents ready.
Can I use a photocopy of my marriage certificate or court order?
No. DPS requires an original or certified copy with the official seal. Photocopies are not accepted. If you only have a photocopy, contact the issuing court or vital records office to request a certified copy.