The fastest way: online through DPS

Texas lets you change your address online through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting an office or paying a fee. You go to the DPS online services portal, log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, and update your address in a few minutes. The change takes effect when ready for most purposes, though your physical card will still show the old address until it expires or you renew it.

This online method works only if your license is valid (not expired or suspended) and you have not changed your name since you got it. If either of those is true, you will need to visit a DPS office in person instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online through the DPS website for free if your license is valid and your name has not changed.
  • The online change takes effect when ready, but your physical card will still show your old address until you renew it.
  • If your license is expired or suspended, or if you changed your name, you must visit a DPS office in person.
  • In-person address changes at a DPS office take about 15 to 30 minutes and cost nothing.
  • You will need proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) and a valid form of ID when you visit in person.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

If you cannot use the online method, you can visit any DPS driver license office in Texas. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address, and a valid form of ID if your license is expired. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days — it must show your name and new address.

You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday usually means a shorter wait. The office will update your address on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready. You will not pay a fee for an address change alone.

If your license is expired, you will need to renew it at the same time, which does cost a fee (currently $16 for a four-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal in Texas, though these amounts can change). If your license is still valid, the address change is free.

What counts as proof of your new address

DPS accepts several documents as proof of address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days, show your name, and show your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a government check, or mail from a government agency.

A cell phone bill usually does not count. If you just moved and do not have a document yet in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address — some DPS offices will accept this, though it is not may provide. Call your local DPS office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your document will work.

When you need to renew your license instead of just changing your address

If your license is expired, you cannot use the online address change. You must visit a DPS office and renew your license at the same time. A standard renewal costs $16 for four years or $32 for eight years. You will need your expired license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity and Social Security number (a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card works).

If your license was suspended or revoked, you also cannot change your address online. You will need to visit an office and may need to clear the suspension or revocation first — call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to find out what is required in your case.

How long the change takes and when it shows up

An online address change takes effect when ready. Your address will be updated in the DPS system right away, and you can use it for things like voter registration or insurance purposes.

Your physical driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew it. When you renew — either because it expires or because you choose to renew early — you can request a card with your new address printed on it. Early renewal costs the same as a regular renewal and is not necessary just to update your address, since the system already knows where you live.

If you change your address in person at a DPS office, the change takes effect when ready in the same way. Again, your card will not be reprinted unless you renew it.

Changing your address if you moved out of state

If you moved to another state, you should get a driver's license in your new state rather than trying to keep your Texas license. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving there. You will need to surrender your Texas license when you explore for the new one.

If you are temporarily out of state but still a Texas resident, you can change your address online or in person as described above, using your new temporary address.

Finding your nearest DPS office and checking wait times

You can find a DPS driver license office near you on the DPS website. Many offices now show estimated wait times online, updated throughout the day. You can also call ahead to ask about current wait times. The main DPS customer service line is 1-888-589-6556.

Some DPS offices are busier than others. Rural offices and those in smaller towns often have shorter waits than offices in major cities. If you have flexibility, visiting a less busy location can save you time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The online system only works for valid licenses. If your license is expired, you must visit a DPS office in person and renew it at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity and Social Security number.

Do I have to pay to change my address?

No, changing your address alone is free whether you do it online or in person. If your license is expired and you renew it at the same time, you will pay the renewal fee ($16 for four years or $32 for eight years), but the address change itself has no separate cost.

How long does it take for my new address to show up in the system?

An online change takes effect when ready. An in-person change at a DPS office also takes effect when ready. Your physical card will still show your old address until you renew your license, but the DPS system and other government agencies will see your new address right away.

What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

Ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address. Some DPS offices will accept this as proof, though it is not may provide. Call your local office ahead of time to ask whether they will take a landlord letter before you visit.

Can I change my address if my license was suspended?

No. You cannot change your address online if your license is suspended. You must visit a DPS office in person, and you may need to clear the suspension first. Call DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to find out what steps are required in your situation.