Texas lets you change your driver's license address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your address change is within Texas and you meet specific requirements.

The online address change service is the fastest route if you are may be able to access. You do not need to visit a DPS office, mail anything, or pay a fee. The process takes about 10 minutes and your updated license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Not everyone can use the online system. You must have a valid Texas driver's license or ID card, a Social Security number on file with DPS, and you must be changing your address to another location within Texas. If you are moving out of state, renewing your license at the same time, or your license is suspended or expired by more than two years, you will need to visit a DPS office in person instead.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change tool is available through the Texas DPS website and works only for moves within Texas to an address you can verify.
  • You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to start the online process.
  • Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days; you do not receive a temporary document.
  • If your license is expired by more than two years, suspended, or you are moving out of state, you must visit a DPS office instead of using the online tool.
  • The online service costs nothing, but if you need your license faster or in person, you can request an expedited replacement at a DPS office for an additional fee.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather these items before you log into the online system. You will need your Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to verify your identity using this information.

You will also need your new Texas address ready to enter. The address must be a physical street address in Texas — the system does not accept PO boxes. If you do not yet have a permanent address but know where you will be living, you can use that address. If you are still in transition, wait until you have a confirmed address before using the online tool.

Make sure your current license is not expired by more than two years and is not suspended or revoked. If either of those conditions applies, the online system will reject your request and you will need to visit a DPS office.

Step-by-Step: Using the Online Address Change Tool

Go to the Texas DPS website and locate the Online Services section. Look for the option labeled "Change Address on Driver's License or ID Card." Click that link to begin.

On the first screen, enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify this information against DPS records. If the information does not match, you will see an error message and cannot proceed — this usually means a typo in one of the fields, so try again carefully.

Once verified, you will be asked to enter your new address. Type it exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling of your street name, city, and ZIP code. The system will not let you proceed if the address format does not match USPS standards.

Review the summary screen showing your current address and your new address. If everything is correct, click "Submit." You will receive a confirmation number on screen — write this down or take a screenshot. You will also receive a confirmation email at the address on file with DPS.

What Happens After You Submit

Your address change is processed when ready, but your physical license will take time to arrive. DPS will print a new license card with your updated address and mail it to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not receive a temporary license or a paper confirmation to use in the meantime.

If you need to prove your address change before the new card arrives, keep your confirmation number and confirmation email. Some businesses and government offices will accept the confirmation as proof of your address change, though this varies. Call ahead if you need to update your address with a bank, insurance company, or government agency before your new license arrives.

If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact DPS using your confirmation number. You can reach them through the Texas DPS website or by calling the driver's license customer service line. Have your confirmation number ready when you call.

When You Cannot Use the Online Tool

The online address change system will not work if your license is expired by more than two years. If that is the case, you must renew your license at a DPS office, and you can update your address at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of identity to a DPS office.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online. You must visit a DPS office in person. The staff there can tell you what steps are needed to resolve the suspension or revocation before you can update your address.

If you are moving out of Texas, the online tool will reject your out-of-state address. You must visit a DPS office to change your address to another state. Bring your current license, proof of residency in your new state, and proof of identity. Some states have different requirements, so call the DPS office ahead of time if you are unsure what documents to bring.

Proof of Residency and Address Verification

The online system does not ask you to upload proof of your new address. Instead, DPS verifies your address using databases they have access to — utility records, USPS records, and other sources. In most cases, this verification happens automatically and your address change goes through without delay.

If DPS cannot verify your address through these databases, you will receive a letter asking you to provide proof of residency. This letter will explain what documents are acceptable — typically a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address. You will have a important date to respond, usually 30 days. If you do not respond, your address change request will be denied and you will need to start over.

To avoid this delay, make sure the address you enter matches exactly what appears on your utility bill or lease. If you just moved and your utility account is not yet in your name, use a lease or rental agreement instead.

Faster Alternatives if You Need Your License Sooner

If you cannot wait 7 to 10 business days for your new license to arrive, you can visit a DPS office and request an expedited replacement. You will pay an additional fee — the amount varies by office and type of service — and you can receive your updated license the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.

To use this option, visit a DPS office in person with your current license and proof of your new address. Tell the staff you want an expedited address change. They will process it on the spot and you can choose to pick up your new license at that office or have it mailed to your new address.

Some DPS offices also offer a temporary paper license that you can use while you wait for your permanent card. This is not available through the online system, only in person. Ask the DPS staff whether your office offers this service.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, as long as your license is not already expired by more than two years. If your license expires within the next few months, you can still use the online address change tool. Your new license will arrive with your updated address and the new expiration date.

What if I made a mistake entering my address?

Contact DPS as soon as possible using your confirmation number. You may be able to request a correction before your new license is printed. If the license has already been mailed with the wrong address, you will need to visit a DPS office to request another replacement.

Do I need to change my address with my car registration at the same time?

No, your driver's license address and vehicle registration address are separate. You can update your registration address through the Texas DMV website or at a DPS office, but it is not required to match your license address. However, it is a good idea to keep them the same to avoid confusion with mail and official documents.

Will my old license still work while I wait for the new one?

Yes, your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. You can use it for identification, driving, and other purposes. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to a DPS office if they request it.

Can I use a PO box as my new address?

No, the online system requires a physical street address. If you only have a PO box, you must visit a DPS office in person to discuss your options. Some offices may allow you to use a PO box under specific circumstances, but this is rare and requires staff approval.