The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting an office or paying a fee. Go to dps.texas.gov, find the Driver License section, and use the address change tool. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The change takes effect when ready online, though your physical card won't reflect it until renewal.

If you prefer to change your address in person, you can visit any Texas DPS office. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days all work. There is no fee for an address change, and the update is processed on the spot.

By mail, you can send a completed DL-43 form (Address Change process) along with a copy of your driver's license and proof of address to the DPS address listed on their website. This method takes longer — typically two to three weeks — so use it only if online or in-person options aren't available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at dps.texas.gov is free, takes minutes, and updates your record when ready, though your physical card won't change until you renew.
  • In-person changes at any DPS office require only your current license and proof of address dated within 90 days, with no fee.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — any document showing your name and new address.
  • Mail-in changes using the DL-43 form take two to three weeks and should only be used if you cannot go online or visit an office.

What counts as proof of your new address

Texas DPS accepts any document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and new address. The most common options are a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a signed lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank or credit card statement. If you've just moved and don't have a dated document yet, ask your utility company for a letter confirming your service start date, or ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead.

Documents that do not work include a change of address form from the post office, a voter registration card, or a letter from an employer. If you're moving to a new state or country, you'll need to renew your license rather than straightforward change the address — contact DPS for guidance on that process.

Changing your address online step by step

Start at dps.texas.gov and navigate to the Driver License Services section. Look for the "Address Change" or "Online Services" link — the exact wording changes occasionally, but it's always on the main DPS page. Click it and you'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. These details must match exactly what's on file with DPS.

Once you've entered your information, you'll be asked to confirm your current address and then enter your new address. Double-check both before submitting — an error here means your record will be wrong. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation on screen. Your address is updated in the DPS system when ready, and you can use that confirmation as proof if needed.

Your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew it. If you need your card to reflect your new address before renewal, you'll have to visit a DPS office in person and request a replacement card, which costs around $20 to $30.

Visiting a DPS office in person

Find your nearest DPS office by searching "DPS Driver License Office" plus your city name, or use the office locator on dps.texas.gov. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment for an address change — walk-ins are accepted, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. The staff member will verify your information, update your record, and hand you a receipt. If you want your physical card updated when ready, ask about a replacement card at that time — you'll pay the replacement fee and receive the new card within a few minutes.

If you're unable to visit an office during posted hours, the online method is your best option. If you have questions before you go, call the DPS Driver License Information line — the number is on dps.texas.gov.

Using the mail-in DL-43 form

read the DL-43 form from dps.texas.gov or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your name, driver's license number, current address, and new address. Make a copy of your driver's license (front and back) and include it with the form, along with a copy of your proof of address. Do not send original documents — copies are sufficient.

Mail the packet to the DPS address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives it. You won't receive a confirmation in the mail — your address will straightforward be updated in the system. If you need to confirm the change was processed, you can call DPS or log into your online account after a few weeks.

This method is slower than online or in-person options and carries a small risk that mail gets lost. Use it only if you're unable to go online or visit an office.

What happens to your physical card

Your driver's license card itself does not automatically update when you change your address. The DPS system updates, and that's what law enforcement and government agencies see when they scan or look up your license. Your physical card will still show your old address until you renew your license — which in Texas happens every 8 years for adults — or until you pay for a replacement card.

If you're stopped by police or need to show your license for official purposes, the address on the card is not what matters. The officer or official will see your current address in the system. However, if you want your card to match your actual address, you can request a replacement card at a DPS office. The fee is typically $20 to $30, and you'll receive the new card when ready.

Changing your address before you move

You can change your address online or in person before you actually move — you don't have to wait until after you've relocated. However, you will need proof of your new address, which usually means a lease, mortgage statement, or utility bill. If your lease or mortgage is signed but your utility hasn't been activated yet, bring the signed lease or mortgage along with a letter from your utility company confirming your service start date.

Changing your address early is a good idea if you want to make sure mail from DPS reaches you at your new home. It also ensures your voter registration and vehicle registration are aligned with your current address, which can prevent confusion later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move within Texas?

You are not legally required to change your address when ready, but it's a good idea. Your vehicle registration, voter registration, and insurance records should all match your actual address. If you're pulled over and your license shows an old address, it can create confusion, though it's not a violation.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can change your address online or in person even if your license is expired. However, if your license expired more than two years ago, you may need to renew it instead of just changing the address. Contact DPS to confirm what you need to do.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online process takes about five to ten minutes to complete. Your address is updated in the DPS system when ready after you submit. You'll receive a confirmation on screen that you can save or print if you need proof.

What if I don't have a utility bill or lease as proof of address?

You can use a bank statement, credit card statement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days. If you've just moved and don't have any of these yet, ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date.

Will changing my address affect my car insurance?

Your insurance company should be notified of your address change separately — changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your insurance records. Contact your insurance agent or company directly to report your move, as your premium may change based on your new location.