What You Need to Do to Change Your Address in Texas

To change the address on your Texas driver's license or ID card, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person or use the online address change service if you meet certain conditions. Texas does not allow address changes by mail or phone. The process takes about 15 minutes at a DPS office, and there is no fee for an address-only change.

You have two main routes: the online service through the Texas DPS website (if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name) or an in-person visit to a DPS driver license office. Most people can use the online option, which is faster and requires no appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas DPS offers a free online address change service for current, valid licenses that have not been suspended or revoked.
  • You must visit a DPS office in person if your license is expired, you have changed your name, or you need a new photo.
  • Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days) and your current license or ID card.
  • The online process takes about 10 minutes and updates your address when ready; in-person visits typically take 15 to 30 minutes.
  • DPS offices do not require appointments for address changes, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

Using the Online Address Change Service

The Texas DPS online address change portal is the fastest option if your license is valid and current. You can access it through the official Texas DPS website under the "Driver License" section. The system will ask you to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.

You must have a valid email address to complete the online process. After you submit your new address, DPS sends a confirmation email. Your address change takes effect when ready in the DPS system, though your physical license card will still show the old address until it expires or you renew it. You do not receive a new card for an address-only change.

The online service is not available if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked; if you have changed your name; or if you are under 18. In any of these cases, you must go to a DPS office.

Visiting a DPS Office in Person

Walk into any Texas DPS driver license office during business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You do not need to schedule ahead for an address change. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address.

The DPS staff member will verify your identity, update your address in the system, and give you a receipt. If your license is expired or you need a new photo, you will pay the standard renewal fee (currently $33 for a five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license). For an address-only change on a valid license, there is no charge.

Wait times depend on the office location and time of day. Early morning and mid-week visits typically have shorter lines than afternoons or Fridays. Some DPS offices in larger cities use a ticket system; you take a number when you arrive and wait for your turn.

Documents You Must Bring

Bring your current Texas driver's license or ID card. You will also need one document that proves your new address and is dated within 90 days of your visit. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a government document with your name and address.

The document must show your full name and the complete new address. A post office change-of-address form is not accepted as proof of address. If you do not have a document dated within 90 days, ask the DPS office what alternatives they accept; some offices may allow an affidavit of residency if you cannot obtain a recent utility bill or lease.

If you are changing your address because you moved out of state and are now back in Texas, bring proof of your new Texas address plus your current license. If your license is expired, bring it anyway—DPS will still update your address, but you will also pay a renewal fee.

Timeline and When Your Change Takes Effect

Online address changes take effect when ready. Your address is updated in the DPS database as soon as you submit the form, and you receive a confirmation email. You can use this confirmation as proof of your new address if needed before your physical card is replaced.

In-person address changes also take effect when ready. The DPS staff member updates your record on the spot, and you receive a receipt showing your new address. This receipt is a valid proof of address for most purposes (bank accounts, insurance, voter registration) until your license is renewed.

Your physical license card will continue to show your old address until you renew your license. You do not receive a new card for an address-only change. When you renew your license—either at expiration or voluntarily—you will receive a card with your current address printed on it.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

Do not attempt to change your address by mail or phone. Texas DPS does not process address changes through the mail, and phone lines do not handle this request. The only valid methods are online (if you are may be able to access) or in person at a DPS office.

Do not bring an expired utility bill or lease. DPS requires proof of address dated within 90 days. If you just moved and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, bring a lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead. If you cannot obtain any of these, contact the DPS office ahead of time to ask about alternatives.

Do not assume your physical card will be updated. An address-only change does not trigger a new card. If you need a card with your new address printed on it, you must renew your license (which costs a fee) or wait until your next renewal cycle.

Do not go to a DPS office if you have also changed your name. Name changes require additional documents and processing. Contact DPS ahead of time or check the website for the full list of documents needed for a name and address change together.

Finding Your Nearest DPS Office and Hours

Use the Texas DPS office locator on the official DPS website. Enter your city or zip code, and the system will show all nearby driver license offices, their addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. Some larger cities have multiple offices; choose the one most convenient to you.

Call ahead if you want to confirm current hours or ask about wait times. Many DPS offices have a phone line where staff can tell you how busy they are at that moment. Some offices also post wait times on their websites or social media pages.

If you live in a rural area far from a DPS office, some county tax assessor offices or other local government agencies offer limited DPS services, including address changes. Check the DPS website to see if a satellite office near you handles address changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if my license expires soon?

Yes, as long as your license is currently valid (not expired), you can use the online service. The expiration date does not matter. However, if your license has already expired, you must visit a DPS office in person.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to change my address?

No. You need your current driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address (dated within 90 days). You do not need your Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate for an address-only change.

What if I moved and do not have a utility bill yet?

Bring a lease, rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy instead. Any document showing your name and new address dated within 90 days will work. If you cannot obtain any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask about an affidavit of residency.

Will I get a new license card with my new address on it?

No. An address-only change does not issue a new card. Your physical license will still show your old address until you renew your license at expiration or voluntarily renew it (which costs a fee). The DPS system and your receipt will show your new address when ready.

How long does it take to change my address at a DPS office?

The actual process takes about 15 minutes once you reach the counter. Total time depends on how busy the office is. Early morning and mid-week visits usually have shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays. Some offices post current wait times online.