You can update your Texas driver license address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you change your address without renewing your license early. The fastest route is the online system at dps.texas.gov, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail a form to DPS or walk into a local driver license office with proof of your new address.
You do not need a new photo or to retake a test. DPS straightforward updates the address in their records and mails you a replacement card with the new address printed on it. The replacement card arrives in 7 to 10 business days if you explore online, or 2 to 3 weeks if you mail the form.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change at dps.texas.gov is free and the fastest option, taking 10 minutes and producing a replacement card in 7 to 10 business days.
- You must prove your new address with a document like a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days.
- If you use the online system, you will need your driver license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to log in.
- Mailing a form or visiting an office in person works if you cannot use the online system, but takes longer and may require you to wait in line.
- Your current license remains valid at the old address until the replacement card arrives; you do not need to stop driving.
Update your address online through the DPS website
Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on "Change Address" or "Address Change" (the exact link name varies slightly). You will be asked to log in or create an account using your driver license number, Social Security number, and date of birth.
Once logged in, enter your new address and upload a photo of a document that proves you live there. DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, insurance documents, or government mail — as long as the document shows your name, your new address, and was issued within the last 90 days. A photo taken with your phone works fine.
After you submit, DPS will mail a replacement card to your new address. You do not pay a fee. Your current license stays valid while you wait for the replacement, so you can continue to drive and use it for identification.
Mail a form if you cannot use the online system
If the online system is not working or you do not have the information needed to log in, you can request a form by calling the DPS Driver License Division at 512-424-2000. Ask for the address change form. DPS will mail it to you, or you can read it from their website if you have access to a printer.
Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include a copy of a document that proves your new address (same documents accepted online: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 90 days). Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the form — usually the DPS headquarters in Austin, though some regional offices accept mail.
Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks from the day DPS receives your envelope. There is no fee. Your current license remains valid during this time.
Update your address in person at a DPS driver license office
You can walk into any Texas DPS driver license office with your current license and proof of your new address. Bring the same documents accepted online: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your name and new address, dated within 90 days.
The office will update your address on the spot and order a replacement card. You will not pay a fee. The card will be mailed to your new address and arrive in 7 to 10 business days. Your current license is valid until the replacement arrives.
Wait times at DPS offices vary widely. Some offices have short lines in the morning; others have waits of an hour or more during lunch and late afternoon. Check the DPS website for your local office's hours and location before you go.
What documents prove your new address
DPS requires one document that shows your name, your new address, and was issued within the last 90 days. The most common proof documents are:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy (auto, home, or renter's)
- Government mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document)
- Paycheck stub showing your new address
The document must have your name printed on it — a handwritten name does not count. If you recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, you may be able to use a letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation email. Call DPS at 512-424-2000 to ask whether a specific document will work before you submit it.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit
If you update online or in person, your replacement card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you mail the form, allow 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives it. DPS does not send a confirmation email or text when the card ships, so watch your mailbox.
Your current license with the old address remains valid and legal to use while you wait. You can drive, show it as ID, and use it for any purpose. When the replacement card arrives, the old card is no longer valid, but you do not have to destroy it or return it to DPS.
If your replacement card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, call DPS at 512-424-2000 with your driver license number. They can check the status and remail the card if it was lost.
Special situations: name change, military move, or address outside Texas
If you changed your name at the same time you moved, you cannot use the address-change-only system. You will need to renew your license instead, which requires a new process, proof of identity, and proof of citizenship. This takes longer and costs a renewal fee.
If you are moving out of state, you do not need to update your Texas license address. Your Texas license remains valid in every state. When you move permanently, you will eventually need to get a license in your new state, but there is no important date to do so.
If you are in the military and moving to a base address, you can use the same online, mail, or in-person process. Use your base address as your new address. If you are deployed or stationed overseas, you can update your address to a stateside mailing address (a parent's home, for example) so your replacement card reaches you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to update my address right away, or can I wait?
There is no important date. You can update your address whenever you are ready. However, keeping your license current helps avoid confusion if you are pulled over or need to show ID. Some insurance companies and employers also ask for a current address on file.
What if I do not have a document that proves my new address?
Call DPS at 512-424-2000 and explain your situation. They may accept alternative documents, such as a letter from your landlord on their letterhead, a utility company confirmation email printed out, or a recent lease signing email. DPS staff can tell you what will work before you submit.
Can someone else update my address for me?
No. You must update your own address. If you are unable to go online, mail a form, or visit an office, a family member or friend can help you gather documents or mail the form, but you must sign the form yourself and provide your own information.
Will updating my address affect my insurance or registration?
Updating your driver license address does not automatically notify your auto insurance company or the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. You must contact your insurance company and update your vehicle registration separately if your address changed. Check your insurance policy and registration documents for instructions.
What if my replacement card arrives with errors?
If the address or other information on the replacement card is wrong, return to a DPS office or call 512-424-2000 to report it. DPS will issue a corrected card at no charge. Bring your incorrect card and proof of the correct information.