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 five 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 shows the old address until it expires and you renew it.

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 at a DPS office take a few minutes. Mail takes one to two weeks. None of these methods require you to pay a fee or take a new photo.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes effect when ready in the system, even though your physical card keeps the old address.
  • 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 cost money and does not require a new photo or a new license card unless your current license is expiring soon.
  • Your insurance company and vehicle registration may not automatically update when you change your license address, so contact them separately.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your new address, and a valid email address. The system will send you a confirmation email. Once you confirm, the address change is complete and shows up in the DPS system right away.

This method works only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to renew it instead of just changing the address. The online change does not give you a new physical card — your current license will still show your old address until you renew it for any reason.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website and bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days.

Walk up to the counter, tell the staff member you want to change your address, and hand over your license and proof document. The process takes a few minutes. You will not pay a fee, and you will not need to take a new photo. Your address updates in the system when ready, and you walk out with your license showing the old address — it will update on your next renewal.

Changing your address by mail

read and print the Address Change form from the Texas DPS website, or call the DPS to request one by mail. Fill in your driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of one document that proves your new address — the same documents accepted in person work by mail (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 90 days).

Mail the completed form and proof document to the address listed on the form. DPS typically processes mail requests within one to two weeks. You will receive a confirmation by mail. Like the online and in-person methods, this does not cost money and does not give you a new license card.

What happens to your physical license card

Your driver's license card itself will not change when you update your address. It will still show your old address until your license expires and you renew it. This is normal — the address in the DPS system is what law enforcement and government agencies see when they scan your license, not what is printed on the card.

If you want a new card with your new address printed on it before your license expires, you can renew your license early. In Texas, you can renew up to one year before your expiration date. Early renewal costs the same as a regular renewal and requires you to visit a DPS office in person.

Updating your insurance and vehicle registration

Changing your address on your driver's license does not automatically update your auto insurance or vehicle registration. You must contact your insurance company separately and tell them your new address. Your insurance rates may change based on your new location, so it is important to update them promptly.

You also need to update your vehicle registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Updating your registration address is separate from updating your license address, even though both are handled by state agencies.

When you need to renew instead of just changing your address

If your driver's license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use the address-change process. You will need to renew your license instead, which requires a new process, a new photo, and a visit to a DPS office. Renewal costs more than an address change and takes longer.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online or by mail. You must visit a DPS office in person, and the staff will tell you what steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges before you can update your address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring anything if I change my address online?

No. The online method requires only your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. You do not need to go anywhere or bring physical documents.

How long does it take for my address to change in the system?

Online changes take effect when ready. In-person changes at a DPS office also take effect when ready. Mail requests typically take one to two weeks. In all cases, your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it.

Will my insurance rates change if I change my address?

Possibly. Insurance rates depend on where you live, so moving to a different city or county may raise or lower your premium. Contact your insurance company after you move to make sure your policy reflects your new address and to learn about your rate has changed.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended?

No. You cannot change your address online or by mail if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DPS office in person, and staff will tell you what you need to do to restore your driving privileges first.

What if I do not have a document that proves my new address?

You will need to obtain one before you can change your address in person or by mail. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days all work. If you cannot get any of these, contact your local DPS office to ask about other options.