The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address on your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The address change shows up in the system when ready, though your physical license still has the old address printed on it until you renew.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to DPS or walk into any DPS office with your current license and proof of your new address. In-person changes are processed the same day. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days. None of these methods require you to pay a fee or take a new photo.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at the Texas DPS website is free and when ready, but your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it.
  • You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
  • If you change your address in person at a DPS office, bring your current license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Changing your address does not extend your license expiration date or require you to renew early.
  • Your address change is recorded in the DPS system right away, even though the printed card takes time to update.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select 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 new address. The system will verify your identity using this information. Once you confirm the change, you'll receive an email confirmation. The address is updated in the DPS database when ready, and you can use it right away for things like vehicle registration or insurance.

The online change is permanent and does not require you to do anything else. Your physical license card will still show the old address, but law enforcement and government agencies see the new address when they look up your record. You do not need to carry proof of the address change — the system is the proof.

Changing your address by mail

read the Address Change form (Form DL-43) from the Texas DPS website, fill it out with your current license number and new address, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail. Do not send your original license.

DPS will process the form and send you a confirmation by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your address will be updated in the system during that time. This method is free and requires no appointment, but it is slower than online or in-person options.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address to any DPS office. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail with your name and new address. You do not need an appointment. A DPS employee will verify your identity, update your address in the system, and give you a receipt. The change is complete the same day.

This is the fastest method if you need the change recorded when ready. There is no fee, and you do not need to renew your license or take a new photo. The office will keep a copy of your address proof on file.

What documents count as proof of your new address

Texas DPS accepts documents that show your name and new address. The most common ones are utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), a signed lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or mail from a government agency. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and must clearly show both your name and the address you are moving to.

If you do not have a recent document in your name, you can use a notarized letter from your landlord or a family member who lives with you, or a notarized affidavit stating your new address. Some DPS offices may ask for additional proof if the document is unclear or does not meet the requirements, so call ahead if you are unsure.

Your physical license card versus your DPS record

When you change your address online or by mail, the DPS system updates when ready, but the plastic card in your wallet still shows the old address. This is normal and does not cause problems. Police officers, insurance companies, and government agencies all look up your record in the DPS database, not at the card itself. Your new address is what they see.

You do not need to replace your license just to update the address. The card will show the new address only when you renew your license at the end of its validity period. If you want a card with the new address printed on it before then, you can pay for an early renewal, but this is optional and costs money.

How address changes affect your vehicle registration and insurance

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration or insurance. You must notify your insurance company separately — most allow you to update your address online, by phone, or through your agent. Your vehicle registration is tied to your address, and Texas requires you to update it within 30 days of moving. You can do this online through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or by mail.

Some insurance companies may adjust your rate based on your new address, since insurance pricing depends partly on where you live. Contact your insurer to confirm the change and ask whether your rate will change. Updating all three — your license, registration, and insurance — ensures everything matches and prevents problems if you are stopped by police or file a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to renew my license early if I change my address?

No. Changing your address does not affect your license expiration date or require an early renewal. Your license remains valid until the date printed on it, and you can change your address as many times as you need without renewing.

Can I change my address online if I do not have a computer?

Yes. You can change your address by mail or in person at any DPS office. Both methods are free and do not require internet access. In-person is fastest if you have a DPS office nearby.

What if I moved out of state — do I still change my Texas address?

No. If you have moved to another state, you should get a driver's license in that state instead of updating your Texas address. Texas considers an out-of-state move a reason to let your license expire without renewal. Contact the DMV in your new state to get a license there.

How long does it take to see my new address in the system?

Online and in-person changes are when ready. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days. Once updated, your new address appears in the DPS database right away, even though your physical card still shows the old one.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address online or by mail with an expired license, but if you go in person, DPS may ask you to renew at the same time. Call your local DPS office first to confirm what they require, since policies can vary by location.