Change your Texas address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
You can update your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting an office, or you can go in person if you prefer. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you change your address and do not update your license, you may receive tickets or citations at your old address, and law enforcement can cite you for providing false information if stopped.
Texas does not require you to renew your license when you move. You only need to update the address on your existing license. The address change itself does not extend or shorten the expiration date of your current license.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes; you will receive a confirmation email but no physical document in the mail.
- You must have a valid Texas driver's license or ID card, your Social Security number, and a method to pay the $11 fee if you choose to receive a replacement card by mail.
- Changing your address online does not give you a new physical card — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it until it expires.
- If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you must pay $11 and request it during the online process or explore in person at a DPS office.
- Address changes made online are recorded in the DPS system when ready, so law enforcement and the DMV will have your correct address even if your physical card still shows the old one.
Update your address online through the Texas DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS online services portal at dps.texas.gov and select "Change Address" under the driver's license section. You will need your current Texas driver's license or ID card number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using these details.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on mail you receive at that location. Include the street number, street name, apartment or unit number if applicable, city, ZIP code, and county. Texas DPS will not mail you anything after an online address change — the update is recorded in their system only. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you must select that option during the online process and pay $11. The card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
After you submit the online change, you will receive a confirmation email. Save this email or print it as proof that you updated your address, in case you are stopped by law enforcement before your new card arrives. The address change takes effect when ready in the DPS database, even though your physical card still shows the old address.
Request a replacement card with your new address by mail
If you do not want to visit a DPS office but do want a new card printed with your updated address, you can pay $11 during the online address change process to have a replacement card mailed to you. Select "Request Replacement Card" when you complete the online form. The card will be mailed to your new address and should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
You do not need to return your old card. Once the new card arrives, the old one is no longer valid for identification purposes, though the address change in the DPS system is already active. Keep the old card until the new one arrives in case you need to show ID.
Change your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any Texas DPS Driver's License office with your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address dated within the last 30 days. Bring your Social Security number as well.
Tell the clerk you want to update your address. If you want a replacement card printed when ready with your new address, you will pay $11 at the time of your visit. The office will take a new photo and print your card on site; you will receive it before you leave. If you only want the address updated in the system without a new card, there is no fee.
Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day. Call ahead or check the DPS website for your local office's hours and current wait times. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait.
What counts as proof of your new address
Texas DPS accepts documents dated within the last 30 days that show your name and new address. These include:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- Lease agreement or rental contract
- Mortgage statement or property tax bill
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, or official letter)
- Bank or credit card statement
- Insurance policy or declaration page
The document must be an original or certified copy — photocopies are not accepted. If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, you can use a notarized letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation letter. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what they will accept in your specific situation.
Timeline and fees for Texas address changes
| Method | Fee | Time to Update | New Card Arrives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online address change only | Free | when ready | No card mailed |
| Online with replacement card | $11 | when ready | 7–10 business days |
| In-person, address only | Free | when ready | No card mailed |
| In-person with replacement card | $11 | when ready | Same day |
The address change itself is recorded in the DPS system when ready, whether you do it online or in person. Law enforcement and other government agencies can see your updated address right away. The only delay is if you request a replacement card by mail — the card itself takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive.
Common mistakes to avoid when changing your address
Do not assume your address is updated just because you changed it with the post office or your bank. The Texas DPS maintains a separate database, and you must update it directly through DPS. If you are stopped by law enforcement and your license shows an old address, you can be cited for providing false information, even if you changed your address elsewhere.
Do not enter your address in a format different from how it appears on your mail. If your street is "Oak Street" on your utility bill but you enter "Oak St." in the DPS system, the address may not match and could cause problems later. Copy the address exactly as it appears on your proof document.
Do not wait until your license expires to update your address. You can change it at any time, and doing so early avoids the rush when renewal time comes. If you change your address online and do not request a replacement card, remember that your physical card will still show the old address — keep your confirmation email as proof that you updated it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new license photo when I change my address?
No. If you change your address online or request an address-only update in person, you keep your current photo. A new photo is only taken if you request a replacement card in person at a DPS office. If you order a replacement card by mail through the online system, your existing photo is used on the new card.
What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?
Contact the Texas DPS before the card is mailed and provide your new address. You can update your address online again at any time. If the card has already been mailed to your first new address, you may not receive it. In that case, visit a DPS office in person to update your address and request a new card printed on site.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You can update your address in the DPS system with an expired license, but you cannot request a replacement card. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at the same time. Visit a DPS office in person with your expired license, proof of your new address, and the required documents for renewal.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address in the DPS system does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company will not be notified automatically — you must contact them separately to update your address. Notify your insurance agent as soon as you move to may support your policy reflects your current location.
What if I live in a rural area without a street address?
If you have a rural route or box number, enter it exactly as the post office has it on file. If you do not have a traditional street address, contact your local DPS office to find out how to enter your location in the system. Some rural areas use GPS coordinates or landmark descriptions; the DPS office can guide you on the correct format.