The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address on your Texas driver license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You do not need to take a new photo or pass any tests. Your license itself stays valid; you are only updating the address record.

Texas allows you to change your address without renewing your license early. Your current license remains good until its expiration date, even after you move. However, Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time after moving.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online at the Texas DPS website for free, and the change takes effect when ready.
  • If you change your address online, you do not receive a new physical license card — your current card stays valid with the old address printed on it.
  • You can also change your address in person at any DPS office or by mail, though these methods take longer.
  • Texas requires you to report a change of address within a reasonable time, and driving with an outdated address can result in a traffic citation.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

The online method is the simplest route. Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option in the driver license section. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also need to enter your new address and confirm your current address.

Once you submit the change online, it is processed when ready. You will receive a confirmation number. Your address is updated in the DPS system right away, but your physical license card will still show your old address. This does not matter for most purposes — police and other officials can see your current address in the system when they scan your license.

There is no fee for changing your address online. You do not need to mail anything in or visit an office.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

If you prefer to handle this face-to-face, you can visit any DPS Driver License office in Texas. Bring your current driver license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address dated within the last 60 days.

The office will update your address in the system and issue you a new physical license card on the spot with your new address printed on it. This takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. There is no fee for a change of address.

Wait times at DPS offices vary widely. You can check the DPS website for your local office's hours and current wait times before you go.

Changing your address by mail

You can also mail a request to DPS. Send a letter that includes your current driver license number, your full name, your old address, your new address, and your date of birth. Include a copy of your driver license (front and back) and proof of your new address.

Mail your request to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773-0001. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a new physical license card unless you request one and pay the renewal fee.

What happens if you do not update your address

Driving with an outdated address on your license can result in a traffic citation. Police officers are trained to notice when a driver's address does not match their current residence, and some departments actively cite drivers for this violation. The citation itself is usually a minor offense, but it creates an unnecessary legal issue.

An outdated address can also cause problems if you are pulled over and the officer cannot reach you at the address on your license, or if you need to renew your license and DPS sends renewal notices to an old address where you no longer live.

Proof of address documents DPS will accept

If you change your address in person or by mail, you will need to show proof of your new address. DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include:

  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet)
  • Lease agreements or rental agreements
  • Mortgage statements or property tax bills
  • Bank or credit card statements
  • Insurance policies
  • Government mail (tax documents, voter registration)
  • Letters from your employer showing your work address (if you live at your workplace)

The document must show your full name and the complete new address. A post office change-of-address form alone is not enough; you need an official document that shows where you actually live.

When to change your address before moving

You do not have to wait until after you move to change your address. You can update it online a few days before your move date if you know your new address. This way your address is current in the DPS system from day one, even though your physical license card will still show the old address until you get a new one.

If you are moving within Texas, changing your address online is especially useful because you avoid the trip to a DPS office. If you are moving out of state, you will eventually need to get a license in your new state, but you can update your Texas address first if you want to keep your Texas license active for a period of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address online?

No. When you change your address online, only the address in the DPS system is updated. Your physical license card keeps the old address printed on it. If you want a new card with your new address, you must visit a DPS office in person or renew your license early and pay the renewal fee.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes effect when ready after you submit it. You will receive a confirmation number right away. Your address is updated in the DPS system within minutes, even though your physical card still shows the old address.

What if I move and do not have a proof of address document yet?

If you are moving and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, you can change your address online using just your license number and personal information — no proof of address is needed. If you prefer to change it in person, wait until you have a document dated within the last 60 days showing your new address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address online if your license is expired, as long as it expired within the last two years. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to renew it instead of just changing the address. Visit a DPS office or the DPS website to renew.

Is there a fee to change my address?

No. Changing your address online, by mail, or in person is free. You only pay a fee if you request a new physical license card with your new address printed on it, which costs the same as a license renewal.