You can update your Texas driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

Texas allows you to change your address without renewing your entire license. The method you use depends on whether your license is still valid, how soon you need the change recorded, and whether you want a physical replacement card. Online is fastest if your license hasn't expired; by mail takes 7 to 10 business days; in person at a DPS office is when ready but requires a trip.

You do not need to pass a new test or provide new documents to change your address alone. Texas keeps your current license number and expiration date. The address change appears in the DPS system right away, even if you choose mail or online — the physical card with your new address arrives later.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the Texas DPS website works only if your license is valid and not suspended, and takes about 7 to 10 business days for the new card to arrive.
  • By mail, you send your current license, a completed DL-43 form, and proof of your new address to the DPS; processing takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • In person at any DPS office, you show your current license and proof of address, and walk out with an updated card the same day.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within 90 days of your request.
  • You must update your address within 30 days of moving to a new residence in Texas.

Online address change through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and select "Change Address Online." You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask for your new address. There is no fee for an online address change.

After you submit the form, the DPS processes the request and mails you a replacement card with your new address. This takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit. Your address is updated in the DPS system when ready, so law enforcement and other agencies can see the change right away — you do not have to wait for the card to arrive.

The online method does not work if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked. If any of those explore, you must use the mail or in-person method instead.

Address change by mail

Complete the DL-43 form (Change of Address), which you can read from the Texas DPS website or pick up at any DPS office. Include your current driver's license, a copy of proof of your new address, and the completed form. Mail everything to the address listed on the form — typically the DPS office that issued your license, though the form specifies the correct mailing address.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the DPS receives your envelope. You will receive a new card by mail. Your address updates in the system as soon as the DPS processes your request, not when the card arrives.

Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within 90 days of your request. The document must show your name and new address. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count.

Address change in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS driver's license office in Texas with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring the same documents you would mail: your license and a document showing your name and new address dated within 90 days. There is no fee.

The office staff will update your address on the spot and issue you a replacement card before you leave. This is the only method that gives you an updated card the same day. Wait times vary by location and time of day; calling ahead or checking the DPS website for your local office's hours can help you plan.

If you do not have proof of address with you, some offices will accept a signed affidavit stating your new address, though policies vary by location. Call your local DPS office to confirm whether they accept affidavits before you go.

What counts as proof of address

Your proof of address document must show your full name and your new street address. It must be dated within 90 days of the date you submit your request. Acceptable documents include:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
  • Lease agreement or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, jury summons, or benefits statement)
  • Insurance bill (homeowner's, renter's, or auto)

Documents that do not count include bank statements, credit card statements, paychecks, or letters from employers. If your name on the document does not match your license exactly, bring a second document showing both names — for example, a marriage certificate or court order if you changed your name.

Timeline and what to expect after you request a change

Your address updates in the DPS system within one business day of submission, whether you use online, mail, or in-person methods. Law enforcement and other agencies can see your new address when ready. However, the physical replacement card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail (in-person is same-day).

During the waiting period, your old card is still valid for identification purposes. You can use it to drive, board a plane, or show to police. Once the new card arrives, the old one is no longer valid and should be destroyed.

If you do not receive your new card within 15 business days, contact the DPS to confirm the request was processed. Have your license number and the date you submitted the change ready.

Texas law requires address updates within 30 days

Texas Transportation Code Section 521.054 requires you to notify the DPS of a change of address within 30 days of moving. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to $200. The law applies whether you move within Texas or move to Texas from another state.

If you have moved and have not yet updated your address, do so as soon as possible. The 30-day window is measured from the date you moved, not from the date you received your license. Updating your address online or by mail counts as notification even if the new card has not arrived yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

No, the online method does not work for expired licenses. You must use the mail or in-person method instead. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to renew it rather than just change the address — contact the DPS to confirm your situation.

Do I have to get a new card, or can I just update the system?

Your address updates in the DPS system when ready no matter which method you use. However, Texas will mail you a replacement card with your new address. You cannot opt out of receiving the card — it is part of the address change process.

What if I move before my new card arrives?

Contact the DPS with your new address and request that your card be mailed to the updated address instead. You can do this by phone or by visiting a DPS office. Provide your license number and both addresses.

Can I change my address at the same time I renew my license?

Yes. When you renew, you can provide your new address as part of the renewal process. This is often simpler than making two separate requests, especially if your license is expiring soon anyway.

Is there a fee to change my address?

No. Address changes are free whether you do them online, by mail, or in person. You pay a fee only if you choose to get a replacement card for other reasons, such as a name change or correcting information.