The fastest way to change your address in Texas
You can change your address on your Texas driver license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is the quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You do not need to visit an office or wait for a new card to arrive if you only need the address updated in the system.
Texas distinguishes between updating your address in the DPS database (which happens when ready online) and receiving a new physical card with the updated address printed on it (which takes 7 to 10 business days by mail). Most people only need the database update, especially if they are moving within Texas and do not need proof of residency right away.
You must have a valid Texas driver license or ID card to change your address. If your license has expired or been suspended, you cannot use the online method and must visit a DPS office in person.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the DPS website is free, takes 10 minutes, and updates your address in the system when ready without issuing a new card.
- If you want a new physical card with your updated address printed on it, you must request it during the online change or explore in person, and it will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
- You need your Texas driver license or ID number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
- If your license is expired, suspended, or you do not have internet access, you must change your address in person at a DPS office with proof of your new address.
- Texas accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and government mail as proof of your new address if you change it in person.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the "Change of Address" option under the driver license services menu. You will be directed to a find portal where you enter your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and display your current address on file.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of residency document. Texas requires the street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Do not use abbreviations unless they appear on your official document — for example, if your lease says "Street" rather than "St.", type it that way.
You will be asked whether you want a replacement card mailed to your new address. If you select yes, there is a fee (currently $11 for a standard replacement card, though this amount can change). If you select no, your address updates in the system when ready at no cost, and your current card remains valid — the address on the physical card will not match the address in the DPS database, but that is legally acceptable in Texas.
After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number on screen. Write it down or take a screenshot. If you ordered a replacement card, it will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you did not order a card, your address change is complete.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any DPS driver license office in Texas with your current driver license or ID card and proof of your new address. You do not need an appointment. Bring one document from the list below that shows your name and new address:
- Utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days
- Lease agreement or rental agreement signed by you and the landlord
- Mortgage statement or property tax statement
- Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, or court document)
- Bank or credit card statement dated within the last 60 days
- Insurance policy (home, auto, or renter's)
Tell the DPS employee that you are changing your address. They will verify your identity, confirm your new address, and update the system. You can request a replacement card at the same time for a fee, or you can leave with your current card and the address updated in the system only.
If you request a replacement card in person, it will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Processing time at the office itself is usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the location is.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Documents Required | Cost | Time to Update |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (address only) | Driver license number, last 4 SSN digits, date of birth | Free | when ready |
| Online (with replacement card) | Driver license number, last 4 SSN digits, date of birth | $11 | 7–10 business days |
| In person | Current driver license or ID, proof of new address | Free (or $11 for replacement card) | when ready in system; 7–10 days for card |
| By mail | Completed form DL-43, current license, proof of address | Free (or $11 for replacement card) | 2–3 weeks |
Changing your address by mail
If you cannot visit a DPS office or use the online system, you can mail a change-of-address request to the Texas DPS. read and complete form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the DPS website. Include a copy of your current driver license and one document that proves your new address (use the same list as the in-person method above).
Mail the completed form, your license copy, and your proof of address to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. You can request a replacement card by checking the appropriate box on the form; if you do, include the $11 fee as a check or money order.
This method is the slowest and is best used only if you have no internet access and cannot reach a DPS office. Many people who move out of state use this method because they do not want to visit an office in person.
Common mistakes to avoid when changing your address
Do not assume your address has been updated everywhere just because you changed it online. The online change updates only the DPS database. Your address with your insurance company, voter registration, vehicle registration, and bank accounts must be changed separately — each organization maintains its own records.
Do not use a PO box as your address on your driver license. Texas law requires a residential street address. If you live in an apartment, include the apartment number. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, contact a DPS office to discuss your options.
Do not submit proof of address documents that are older than 60 days (except for mortgage statements and property tax statements, which can be older). If your utility bill or bank statement is dated more than two months ago, it will be rejected in person or by mail.
Do not order a replacement card unless you actually need a new physical card. If you only need your address updated in the system — for example, because you are moving within Texas and do not need proof of residency — skip the replacement card and save the $11 fee.
What happens if your address is not updated before you move
If you move before you change your address with the DPS, you can still change it using any of the four methods above. Your old address on your physical card does not prevent you from updating the system. However, if you are pulled over by law enforcement, the officer will see your old address on the card and may ask why it does not match your ID or vehicle registration.
If you move out of state, you should change your Texas address before you leave or update it online from your new state. Texas recognizes out-of-state addresses on driver licenses. If you are moving permanently, you will eventually need to get a driver license from your new state, but you can update your Texas address first if you want to keep your Texas license active temporarily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license has expired?
No. The online system requires a valid, non-expired Texas driver license or ID card. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you must visit a DPS office in person to change your address. You will need to renew your license at the same time, which requires additional documents and fees.
Do I have to get a new card when I change my address?
No. You can update your address in the DPS system without ordering a replacement card. Your old card remains valid, and the address in the system will be correct even though the card shows your old address. Many people do this to avoid the $11 fee and the 7 to 10 day wait for a new card.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The address update itself is when ready — it happens as soon as you submit the form. If you order a replacement card, the card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you do not order a card, you are done as soon as you receive your confirmation number.
What if I move and do not have a utility bill or lease yet?
You can use a mortgage statement, property tax statement, government mail, bank statement, or insurance policy instead. If you have none of these, contact the DPS office in your area — some offices can accept a signed affidavit or other documents in unusual situations, but you must ask in person.
Can I change my address if I am moving out of Texas?
Yes. You can change your Texas address to an out-of-state address online or in person. However, if you are moving permanently, you will eventually need to get a driver license from your new state. Texas allows you to hold both temporarily, but most states do not.