Change Your Texas Address Online, by Mail, or In Person
You can change your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or at any DPS driver license office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. By mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person visits are same-day but require a trip to an office during business hours.
Your current license remains valid while the address change processes. You do not need to renew your license early or pay a renewal fee unless your license is expiring within the next 60 days. Texas will mail your updated license to your new address once the change is recorded.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with your updated license mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.
- You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
- If you change your address in person at a DPS office, bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.
- Mail-in address changes require a completed form and proof of residency, and processing takes 2 to 3 weeks plus mailing time.
- Your license remains valid at your old address while the change processes; you do not need to renew early or pay a fee unless your license expires within 60 days.
Change Your Address Online Through the Texas DPS Website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address on your driver's license. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.
Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling of your street name, city, and ZIP code — errors here delay mail delivery of your updated license. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number on screen. Save or print this number; you may need it if you contact DPS about your change.
Texas DPS will mail your updated license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license is still valid during this time. If you do not receive your new license within 15 business days, contact the DPS to verify the address was recorded correctly.
Change Your Address In Person at a DPS Driver License Office
Visit any Texas DPS driver license office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The name on your proof of address must match the name on your license.
Bring the original document or a certified copy — photocopies are not accepted. If your proof of address is in a different name (for example, a spouse's utility bill), bring a marriage certificate or other document showing the name change. The office staff will update your address on the spot and issue you a new license when ready if you pay the replacement fee, which is typically $16 for a standard license. If you decline the when ready replacement, your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days at no charge.
DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Check the DPS website for your nearest office location and current wait times before you go.
Change Your Address by Mail
read and print the process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-43) from the Texas DPS website. Complete Section 1 (personal information) and Section 2 (address change). Sign and date the form. Include a copy of your proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the DPS website for your region. Include a copy of your current driver's license (front and back). Do not send original documents; DPS will not return them. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your mail, plus time for postal delivery both ways. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address once approved.
Keep a record of when you mailed your form. If you do not receive your updated license within 4 weeks of mailing, contact DPS with your name, license number, and the date you mailed your change request.
What Proof of Address Texas DPS Accepts
Texas DPS accepts the following documents as proof of your new address: utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, bank or credit card statements, insurance policies, or government-issued mail from a state or federal agency. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days.
If your name does not match the name on your license — for example, you recently married or changed your name — bring the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your proof of address. A utility bill in your spouse's name alone will not work unless you also provide proof of the name relationship.
If you live in a new home but have not yet received mail there, ask your landlord, property manager, or mortgage lender for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and move-in date. Some DPS offices accept this in place of a utility bill, but call ahead to confirm your local office's policy.
Timeline and What to Expect
The method you choose determines how quickly you receive your updated license and whether you pay a fee. Online changes are processed when ready and cost nothing, but you must wait for the license to arrive by mail. In-person visits let you walk out with an updated license the same day if you pay the $16 replacement fee, or you can choose the free option and wait for mail delivery.
| Method | Processing Time | Cost | When You Get Your Updated License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | when ready | Free | Mailed within 7–10 business days |
| In Person (no replacement) | Same day | Free | Mailed within 7–10 business days |
| In Person (with replacement) | Same day | $16 (standard license) | Issued when ready |
| By Mail | 2–3 weeks | Free | Mailed within 7–10 business days after approval |
Your current license remains valid at your old address while your change is being processed. You do not need to carry proof of your new address or explain the change to police if you are stopped. However, if your license expires within 60 days of your address change, you will need to renew your license at the same time; the address change alone does not extend your license expiration date.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume your address has changed just because you moved. The address on your license is a legal record and must be updated through DPS, not through the post office. If you file a change of address with USPS but not with DPS, your license will still show your old address, and mail from DPS will be forwarded but may be delayed.
Do not submit proof of address older than 60 days. Utility bills, bank statements, and leases must be current. If you recently moved and have not received mail at your new address yet, contact your utility company or landlord for a dated letter confirming your residency.
Do not send original documents by mail. DPS will not return them, and you may need copies for other purposes. Always send photocopies or certified copies when mailing your address change request.
Do not pay for an in-person replacement license unless you need your updated license when ready. The free option (mailed within 7–10 business days) is sufficient for most people and saves you $16.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move within Texas?
Texas law requires you to notify DPS of your new address within a reasonable time after moving. There is no specific important date, but updating your address promptly ensures your license is current and DPS can reach you if needed. If you are stopped by police, an outdated address may raise questions.
What if my new address is not yet recognized by the post office?
Contact your local post office or your landlord to confirm your address format. If the post office has not yet assigned a number to your new home, ask your landlord or property manager for a dated letter confirming your residency. Some DPS offices accept this letter in place of a utility bill. Call your local DPS office to confirm their policy before you visit.
Can I change my address online if my license is expired?
No. The online address change system requires a valid, current license. If your license is expired, you must renew it in person at a DPS office or by mail. You can update your address as part of the renewal process.
How long does it take to receive my updated license in the mail?
Texas DPS typically mails your updated license within 7 to 10 business days after your change is processed. Postal delivery adds 2 to 5 additional days depending on your location. If you do not receive it within 15 business days, contact DPS with your confirmation number or license number to check the status.
Do I need to change my address if I move out of state?
No. If you move out of Texas, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of updating your Texas address. You can keep your Texas license as a secondary ID, but your primary license should be from the state where you now live.