Update your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

Texas lets you change your driver's license address without getting a new card. You can do it through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or by visiting a DPS driver license office in person. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and your record updates the same day. Mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person visits are when ready but require you to go to an office during business hours.

You do not need to pay a fee to update your address. Your current license stays valid; only your address record changes in the system. If you move out of state or your license expires soon, you may need to renew instead of just updating, but a straightforward address change within Texas is free.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS online portal at texas.gov/dps is the fastest way to update your address and takes effect the same day.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new Texas address to update online.
  • If you cannot update online, you can mail a completed DL-43 form to the DPS address processing center, though it takes 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Visiting a DPS office in person updates your address when ready, but you must bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Your physical license card does not change when you update your address — only your record in the DPS system is updated.

Updating your address online through the DPS website

Go to texas.gov/dps and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on the option to change your address. You will be asked to 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 your DPS record.

Once verified, enter your new Texas address exactly as it appears on mail or utility bills. Double-check the spelling and zip code — the system will not accept a partial address. After you submit, you will see a confirmation screen. Your address change takes effect when ready in the DPS database, though it may take a few hours to appear in all connected systems (like law enforcement databases).

Keep the confirmation number shown on screen for your records. You do not need to print anything or visit an office. Your physical license card keeps the old address printed on it, but your official record with DPS shows the new one.

Mailing a change of address form to DPS

If you cannot update online, read or request the DL-43 form from the DPS website. This is the official change of address form for Texas driver's licenses. Fill in your name, driver's license number, current address (as printed on your license), and your new address. Sign and date the form.

Mail the completed form to the DPS address listed on the form itself — this is usually the DPS Driver License Division office in Austin. Include a copy of proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. Do not send your original license.

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your form. There is no tracking number for mail submissions, so if you need to know the status, you can call the DPS Driver License customer service line. Your physical license will not change, but your address record will update once the form is processed.

Visiting a DPS driver license office in person

Find your nearest DPS office at texas.gov/dps under "Locations." Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You do not need to schedule ahead at most offices, but some busy locations now use an online appointment system — check your local office's page first.

Bring your current Texas driver's license and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Your name must match on both documents.

Tell the clerk you need to update your address. The process takes 5 to 10 minutes. Your address updates when ready in the system, and you will receive a receipt. Your physical license card does not change — the address printed on it remains the same, but your official DPS record reflects your new address right away.

What counts as proof of your new address

DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements also work. Government mail — such as a tax notice or voter registration card — is acceptable if it shows your new address.

The document must have your full name or the name on your license. If you recently moved and have not received mail at the new address yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord on official letterhead stating your move-in date can sometimes work, but call your local DPS office first to confirm. Do not bring a handwritten note or a document with a different name.

If your address is outside Texas

If you have moved out of Texas, you cannot straightforward update your address. Texas requires you to get a new license from your new state. You should surrender your Texas license and obtain a driver's license in your new state of residence. Each state has its own process and requirements.

If you are moving out of state but still need a Texas license (for example, if you work in Texas but live nearby in another state), contact your local DPS office to discuss your options. Some situations may allow you to keep a Texas license with an out-of-state address, but this is not standard and depends on your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your physical license card stays the same with the old address printed on it. Only your address record in the DPS system updates. You do not need a new card unless your license is expiring soon or you are renewing for another reason.

How long does it take to update my address online?

The online update takes effect the same day you submit it. You will see a confirmation screen when ready. It may take a few hours for the change to show up in all connected law enforcement databases, but your DPS record updates right away.

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

No. You must renew your license first. An expired license cannot be updated — you will need to go through the full renewal process, which includes a new photo and card. Contact your local DPS office or visit texas.gov/dps for renewal information.

What if I do not have proof of my new address yet?

Wait until you receive a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and new address. If you have a signed lease or landlord letter, call your local DPS office first to ask if they will accept it. Do not visit without acceptable proof — you will be turned away.

Can I update my address by phone?

No. DPS does not process address changes over the phone. You must use the online portal, mail the DL-43 form, or visit an office in person. The online method is fastest and requires no paperwork or travel.