Change Your Address Online, by Mail, or In Person

Texas lets you change your address on your driver's license through three routes: online at the Texas Department of Public Safety website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest — you can update it in minutes without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready for most purposes. Mail takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives it. In-person changes are processed on the spot, but you'll need to visit a DPS office during business hours.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The address change is separate from license renewal and costs nothing. Your current license remains valid; only the address record updates in the system.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes through the Texas DPS website are free and take effect when ready; you need your driver's license number, date of birth, and a valid email address.
  • Mail-in changes require a completed DL-43 form, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address; mail it to the DPS address listed on the form.
  • In-person changes at any DPS office require your current license and one document proving your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Address changes do not extend your license expiration date or require you to pay a renewal fee.
  • If you move out of state or your license expires within 60 days, you may need to renew instead of just changing your address.

Online Address Change Through the Texas DPS Website

The Texas Department of Public Safety operates an online address change system that is the fastest option. Go to the DPS website, select "Change Address Online," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll then enter your new address and confirm a valid email address where DPS will send a confirmation.

The system processes the change when ready, and your new address appears in the DPS database right away. You do not receive a new physical license card — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the official record in the system shows your new address. This is sufficient for most purposes, including vehicle registration, voting, and law enforcement checks.

If you do not have internet access or prefer not to use the online system, use the mail or in-person options instead.

Mailing an Address Change Form to DPS

To change your address by mail, read or request the DL-43 form (Change of Address) from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a photocopy of your current driver's license (front and back) and one document that proves your new address.

Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at the new address. The document must show your name and the new address and be dated within the last 60 days. Mail the completed form, copy of your license, and proof of address to the DPS mailing address listed on the DL-43 form itself.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation letter; the change is complete when it appears in the system. If you need to verify the change was processed, log into your DPS account online or call the DPS Customer Service line.

Changing Your Address In Person at a DPS Office

Visit any Texas DPS office with your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. The same documents accepted for mail (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days) work in person. Bring the original documents — staff will examine them but typically do not keep them.

The office will update your address on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready in the DPS system. You will not receive a new license card unless you also request a renewal. If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can request it at the same time, but this costs the standard renewal fee and extends your expiration date.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. Check the DPS office locator on the website to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours before you go.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

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

Documents that do not work include credit card offers, promotional mail, or anything addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant." If you are new to an address and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some DPS offices will accept this as temporary proof while you wait for an official bill.

When You Must Renew Instead of Just Changing Your Address

In most cases, you can change your address without renewing your license. However, if your license expires within 60 days of your address change, DPS will require you to renew at the same time. Renewal involves a new photo, updated medical information if applicable, and payment of the renewal fee (which varies based on your license type and how many years you renew for).

If you move out of state and then move back to Texas, you must renew your license rather than straightforward changing the address. The same applies if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. In these cases, go to a DPS office with your current license (or ID if your license is expired), proof of your new address, and proof of residency, and complete a full renewal process.

Timeline and What to Expect After Your Change

Online changes take effect when ready. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days from the date DPS receives your envelope (not from the date you mail it). In-person changes are processed on the spot. Once your address is updated, it appears in all DPS records and is visible to law enforcement, vehicle registration offices, and other agencies that access the DPS database.

Your old physical license card remains valid and does not need to be replaced unless you request a new one. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request it at a DPS office, but you will pay the renewal fee and your expiration date will be extended. Many people keep their old card and straightforward rely on the updated address in the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get a new license card after I change my address?

No. Your current license remains valid. The address in the DPS system updates, and that is what law enforcement and government agencies see. If you want a new card printed with your new address, you can request one, but it costs the renewal fee and extends your expiration date.

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

Ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some DPS offices accept this temporarily. Alternatively, wait until you receive a utility bill, lease, or other dated document in your name at the new address.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. The online system only works for valid, unexpired licenses. If your license is expired, you must renew it in person at a DPS office. You can change your address as part of the renewal process.

How long does a mail-in address change take?

DPS typically processes mail-in changes within 7 to 10 business days after receiving your envelope. This does not include mail delivery time, so allow extra time for your envelope to reach the DPS office. If you need the change faster, use the online system or visit an office in person.

Will changing my address affect my vehicle registration?

Your vehicle registration is separate from your driver's license address. You should update your vehicle registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles as well, but changing your license address does not automatically update your registration. Contact your local county tax assessor-collector's office or update it online through the Texas DMV website.