How to Change Your Address on Your Texas Driver License

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 fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The address change shows up in the system when ready, though your physical license still shows the old address until it expires and you renew it.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to DPS or walk into any DPS office with your current license and proof of your new address. In-person changes at a DPS office take a few minutes. Mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. None of these methods require you to pay a fee or take a new photo.

Key Takeaways

The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes effect when ready in their system, even though your physical card keeps the old address.
You need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email to change your address online.
If you change your address in person at a DPS office, bring your current license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Changing your address does not require a new photo, a new license number, or a renewal fee.
Your physical license will still show your old address until you renew it; the address change only updates the DPS database.

Changing your address online through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under driver license services. You'll enter your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity. Then you'll type in your new address and confirm it. The system will send a confirmation email to the address you provide.

The change takes effect in the DPS database right away. This means if a police officer runs your license, they'll see your new address. However, the physical card in your wallet will still print your old address until you renew your license at the normal expiration date. You don't need to do anything else after the online change — no forms to print, no office visit required.

Changing your address by mail

read the "Change of Address" form from the Texas DPS website or request one by calling the DPS at 1-888-589-6556. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work.

Mail the form and your proof of address to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division, P.O. Box 4087, Austin, TX 78773-0001. Include your current driver license if you want it returned to you, though this is optional. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. You'll get a confirmation letter in the mail when the change is complete.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Bring your current driver license and one document showing your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and new address on it.

Walk up to the counter, tell the clerk you need to change your address, and hand over your license and proof of address. The clerk will update your information in the system on the spot. You'll receive a receipt showing the change was made. The whole process takes 5 to 10 minutes. There is no fee, and you don't need an appointment at most offices, though some busy locations now use an online scheduling system — check your local office's website first.

What counts as proof of your new address

Texas DPS accepts several types of documents as proof of your new address. The document must show your name and your new address clearly. A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowners insurance policy also work. Government mail counts too — a tax return, voter registration card, or official letter from a state or federal agency with your new address.

The document does not have to be recent, but it should be dated within the last 60 days to avoid questions. If you're moving and don't have a document yet in your name at the new address, some offices will accept a signed letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation of service. Call your local DPS office ahead of time if you're unsure whether your document will be accepted.

When your physical license will show the new address

Changing your address does not trigger a new license card. Your physical license will continue to show your old address until your license expires and you renew it. When you renew — whether online, by mail, or in person — the new card will print with your current address on file.

This can feel odd if you've changed your address but your license still shows the old one. However, law enforcement and businesses that scan your license will see your updated address in the DPS database, not the printed card. If you need the physical card to show your new address right away, you would have to renew your license early, which costs the standard renewal fee (currently $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license). Most people don't do this — they straightforward wait until the normal renewal date.

Changing your address if you've moved out of state

If you've moved out of Texas, you should get a driver license from your new state rather than keep your Texas license. However, if you're keeping your Texas license for some reason and need to update the address on file, you can still use the online method or mail in a change-of-address form. You'll need to provide proof of your new out-of-state address using the same types of documents listed above.

Some states allow you to hold a license from another state for a limited time, but most require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Check your new state's requirements before deciding to keep your Texas license. If you do move and get a new state license, your Texas license becomes invalid in that state, even if it hasn't expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I'm moving within Texas?

Yes. Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time. While there's no specific important date stated in the law, it's best to update it within 30 days of moving. You won't face a penalty for a short delay, but keeping your address current helps may support you receive license renewal notices and other mail from DPS.

Will changing my address affect my insurance or car registration?

No. Your driver license address and your vehicle registration address are separate. You'll need to notify your auto insurance company and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles separately if you move. Contact your insurance agent and update your vehicle registration through the DMV website or a local office to keep those records current.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

Yes. You can change your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended or expired. The address change updates your record with DPS regardless of your license status. However, if your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive, and you'll need to resolve the suspension before you can renew or reinstate your license.

What if I don't have a document showing my new address yet?

Call your local DPS office and explain your situation. Some offices will accept a signed letter from your landlord, a utility company work order showing service at your new address, or a lease agreement that hasn't been printed on official letterhead yet. Having something in writing with your name and new address helps. If you're changing your address online, you won't need a physical document at all.

How long does it take to receive a confirmation after changing my address?

Online changes take effect when ready in the DPS system. You'll receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. If you change your address by mail, you'll get a confirmation letter in 2 to 3 weeks. In-person changes at a DPS office are complete on the spot, and you'll receive a receipt before you leave the office.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.