When and how to update your Texas driver's license
You update your Texas driver's license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office by submitting a renewal process, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The process depends on whether you're renewing before expiration, updating information like your address or name, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Most updates can be done in person at any DPS office, though some changes can be started online through the Texas DPS website.
Texas requires you to renew your driver's license every 8 years if you're under 85, or every 5 years if you're 85 or older. You can renew up to 2 years before your expiration date. If you're updating your address, name, or other personal information without renewing, you can do that at any time — you don't have to wait for expiration.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can be reported online through the Texas DPS website without visiting an office, though you'll receive a new physical card by mail.
- Name changes require an in-person visit to a DPS office and proof of the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- Renewals can be done online if you meet certain requirements: your license must not be expired by more than 2 years, you must have a valid Social Security number on file, and you cannot have certain medical conditions.
- You'll need your current license, proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), and proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease) when visiting in person.
- Processing times vary: online renewals are typically faster, while in-person visits usually take 30 minutes to an hour, and mailed renewals take 7 to 10 business days after approval.
Renewing your license online or by mail
If your license is not expired and you meet Texas DPS requirements, you can renew online through the Texas DPS website without visiting an office. Online renewal is available if your license expired no more than 2 years ago, you have a valid Social Security number on file, you don't have certain medical conditions that require a new photo, and you're not changing your name or address. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs the same as an in-person renewal.
If you don't meet online requirements, you can renew by mail. read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, complete it, and mail it with your current license, proof of identity, and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Mail-in renewal takes longer — typically 7 to 10 business days after the DPS receives your process — so submit it well before your expiration date.
Updating your address without renewing
You can update your address on your Texas driver's license online through the Texas DPS website without visiting an office or renewing your license early. Go to the DPS website, select the address change option, enter your new address, and submit. The DPS will mail you a new physical card with your updated address, which usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until expiration.
If you prefer to update your address in person, visit any DPS office with your current license and proof of your new Texas residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. In-person address updates are processed when ready, and you'll receive your new card on the spot.
Changing your name on your license
Name changes require an in-person visit to a DPS office and proof of the legal name change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. Bring your current license, the legal document showing your name change, proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), and proof of Texas residency.
The DPS will issue you a new license with your updated name during your visit. If your name change also means you need a new photo — for example, if you've changed your appearance significantly — the DPS may require you to take a new photo at the office. There is no additional fee for a name change if your license is not yet expired.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit a DPS office with proof of identity and proof of Texas residency. You'll complete a replacement process (the DPS will provide the form), pay the replacement fee, and have your photo taken for the new card. You'll receive your replacement license when ready or within a few minutes, depending on office volume.
If your license was stolen, you can report it to the DPS at the same time you explore for a replacement. This helps prevent identity theft. Some DPS offices allow you to request an expedited replacement if you need the card urgently, though processing times vary by location.
What documents you need to bring
For any in-person visit to a DPS office, bring your current license (or a valid ID if your license is lost) and two forms of proof: one for identity and one for residency. Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, military ID, or Social Security card. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.
If you're changing your name, also bring the legal document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If you're renewing by mail, include copies of these documents with your process form. The DPS website lists all acceptable documents in detail if you're unsure whether yours will work.
DPS office locations and wait times
Texas has DPS offices in most cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the Texas DPS website. Some offices are busier than others — typically, offices in smaller towns have shorter waits, while those in major cities can have waits of 30 minutes to over an hour during peak times. The DPS website shows real-time wait times for many locations, so you can plan your visit accordingly.
You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some offices now offer online appointment scheduling, which can reduce your wait time. Check your local office's page on the DPS website to see if appointments are available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address online if I just moved to Texas?
Yes, you can update your address online through the Texas DPS website as long as you have a valid Texas driver's license. If you're a new Texas resident and don't yet have a Texas license, you'll need to explore for a new license in person at a DPS office with proof of identity and proof of Texas residency.
How much does it cost to renew or update my license?
Renewal and update fees vary depending on the type of license and how long you're renewing it for. Standard fees range from about $25 to $60 for an 8-year renewal. Address changes and name changes typically have no additional fee if your license hasn't expired. The Texas DPS website lists current fees for all transaction types.
What if my license expired more than 2 years ago?
If your license expired more than 2 years ago, you cannot renew online or by mail — you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The DPS will treat this as a renewal rather than a new process, but you'll need to be present for a new photo.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
Yes, you'll have a new photo taken during renewal, whether you renew in person, online, or by mail. If you renew online, the DPS uses your existing photo from your current license. If you renew in person or by mail, a new photo is taken or required as part of the process.
Can I update my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, Texas issues driver's licenses to non-citizens with valid visa status or other authorized presence. You'll need to provide proof of your legal status along with proof of identity and residency. The Texas DPS website lists all acceptable documents for non-citizens. Contact your local DPS office if you're unsure whether your documents may have access to.