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 takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if your license is not expiring within 60 days. If it is expiring soon, you will need to renew at the same time, which adds a fee.
Texas does not require you to get a new physical license card when you change your address — the DPS updates your record in their system, and the address change becomes official when ready. You do not need to show proof of your new address online; the system accepts your word. If you choose to go in person or by mail, you will need to bring one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
The address change takes effect right away online. By mail or in person, it is processed within a few business days. Your old license card remains valid; you do not have to turn it in or wait for a replacement.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes through the Texas DPS website are free and take effect when ready, with no document required.
- If your license expires within 60 days, you must renew it at the same time as changing your address, which costs the standard renewal fee.
- In-person or mail changes require one document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Your current license card stays valid after an address change; you do not receive a new card unless you renew.
Changing your address online
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address and confirm it. The system will show you a summary of the change before you submit.
Online changes are available 24 hours a day and cost nothing. Your address updates in the DPS system when ready, and you can use your updated information right away — for example, if you need to show your address to a bank or employer. Your physical license card will still show your old address, but the official record in the DPS database reflects the new one.
You cannot change your address online if your license expires within 60 days. In that case, you must renew your license and change your address together through the renewal process, either online or in person.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office with your current driver license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photocopy alone is not enough. Tell the clerk you want to change your address. There is no fee for an address-only change. The clerk will update your record, and the change takes effect when ready. Your physical license card will not change unless you also renew your license.
Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less busy on weekday mornings and more crowded on Saturdays. You can check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go.
Changing your address by mail
Print the address change form from the Texas DPS website (Form DL-43). Fill in your current driver license number, name, date of birth, and new address. Sign and date the form. Include a copy of one document that shows your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail, such as a utility bill or lease.
Mail the form and your document copy to the address listed on the DPS website. Do not send your original license. Processing takes about two weeks from the date the DPS receives your mail. Your address will be updated in the system, but your physical card will still show the old address unless you renew.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, contact the DPS to confirm they received your form.
What happens if your license expires soon
If your Texas driver license expires within 60 days, you cannot change your address alone — you must renew your license at the same time. You can do this online, in person, or by mail using the renewal process rather than the address-change process.
Online renewal with an address change costs the standard renewal fee (currently $25 for a four-year license or $50 for an eight-year license, though these amounts can change). You will need to upload or provide a document showing your new address. In person, bring your current license and an address document. By mail, include the renewal form, your address document, and payment.
If you renew and change your address together, you will receive a new physical license card in the mail with your updated address printed on it. This usually arrives within two weeks of approval.
Address changes for commercial driver licenses
If you hold a commercial driver license (CDL), you can change your address using the same methods as a regular license — online, in person, or by mail. The process is identical, and there is no additional fee for an address-only change.
CDL holders should be aware that some employers or insurance companies may require notification of an address change separately from the DPS update. Check with your employer or insurance provider to see if they need to be notified directly.
What documents count as proof of your new address
For in-person or mail address changes, Texas accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, bank or credit card statements, insurance documents, and government mail such as tax forms or voter registration cards.
Documents must be originals or certified copies for in-person visits. For mail, send a photocopy. If your name on the document does not exactly match your license (for example, you recently married and changed your name), bring additional documents showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update my address if I moved but my license is still valid?
No, it is not legally required. However, updating your address ensures that official mail from the DPS, renewal notices, and other documents reach you. If you are stopped by law enforcement, your license will show an outdated address, which may raise questions.
Can I change my address online if I do not have a computer?
Yes. You can change your address in person at any DPS Driver License office or by mail. Both methods require the same document showing your new address and cost nothing for an address-only change.
What if I moved out of state but still have a valid Texas license?
You can still change your address on your Texas license to your new out-of-state address using any of the three methods. However, if you plan to move permanently, you may want to get a driver license in your new state instead, as most states require you to obtain a license within 30 to 60 days of moving there.
How long does an address change take to show up in the system?
Online changes take effect when ready. In-person changes are when ready. Mail changes take about two weeks from the date the DPS receives your form. You can call the DPS to confirm your address has been updated if you need to know right away.
Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?
Only if you renew your license at the same time. An address-only change updates your record but does not produce a new card. Your old card remains valid and can still be used as identification, even though it shows your old address.