How to Change Your Address on a Texas Driver's License

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 10 minutes and your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to take a new photo or pass a test; DPS straightforward updates your record and mails a replacement license with your current address.

You must have a valid Texas driver's license to change your address. If your license has expired or is suspended, you will need to renew or resolve the suspension before updating your address. The fee for a replacement license with a new address is $16 if you change it within 30 days of moving; after 30 days, Texas considers it a renewal and charges $33.

Key Takeaways

The online address change through the DPS website takes 10 minutes and costs $16 if done within 30 days of your move.
You will receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days; your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.
If you change your address more than 30 days after moving, DPS treats it as a renewal and charges $33 instead of $16.
You can also change your address in person at any DPS office or by mail, though both take longer than the online method.

Changing your address online through the 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 driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your mail or utility bill — DPS uses this to verify your residency.

After you submit your information, you will receive a confirmation number. Pay the $16 replacement fee using a credit or debit card. DPS will mail your new license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid and legal to use until the new one arrives, so you do not need to stop driving.

If the online system rejects your information, it usually means your driver's license number or personal details do not match DPS records exactly. Call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556 to confirm your information before trying again.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

You can walk into any DPS driver license office in Texas and request an address change. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days all work. DPS will not accept a PO box as a residential address.

The office will take a new photo, update your record, and issue a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent replacement license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $16 if you are within 30 days of moving, or $33 if you are past that window. Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day; calling ahead or checking the DPS website for your local office's hours can help you plan.

Changing your address by mail

Complete the process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL-44) and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address. The same address documents that work in person — utility bills, leases, mortgage statements, or bank statements dated within 30 days — are accepted by mail.

Include a check or money order for $16 (if within 30 days of moving) or $33 (if past 30 days) made payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Mail everything to the DPS address on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope, plus mail time in both directions, so this method is the slowest option.

What happens if you miss the 30-day window

Texas law requires you to notify DPS of an address change within 30 days of moving. If you change your address after that important date, DPS treats the transaction as a license renewal rather than a straightforward address update. This means you pay $33 instead of $16, and the process takes the same amount of time.

Missing the important date does not result in a fine or penalty — it only affects the fee you pay. Your old license remains valid until you update it, but you should change your address as soon as you can to keep your records current with DPS.

What to do if your new license does not arrive

If your replacement license does not arrive within 10 business days of submitting your address change, contact the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556. Have your confirmation number ready. DPS can check the status of your license and remail it if it was lost in transit.

If you need to drive before your new license arrives, your old license is still valid. You can use it as your legal driver's license until the replacement shows up. If you are moving again before your new license arrives, you can update your address a second time online or in person; DPS will send the license to your most recent address on file.

Address changes for commercial driver's licenses

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must change your address within 30 days of moving, just like standard driver's license holders. The process is the same: you can do it online, in person, or by mail. The fee is $16 within 30 days or $33 after. You do not need to retake any tests or provide medical certification unless your CDL is expiring soon.

Some employers require their CDL drivers to notify them of address changes separately, so check your company's policy as well. Updating your address with DPS does not automatically update your employer's records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if my license expires soon?

Yes. An address change does not affect your license expiration date. If your license expires within the next year or two, you can change your address now and renew your license later when it is actually due. You will not need to do both at the same time.

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

DPS requires proof of your new address. If you do not have a utility bill, lease, or bank statement yet, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and move-in date. Some DPS offices accept this as proof, though policies vary by location — call ahead to confirm.

Do I have to change my address in person, or can someone else do it for me?

You must change your address yourself — DPS will not accept a request from someone else, even a family member or spouse. You can do it online or by mail without going in person, but you cannot have another person submit the change on your behalf.

Will my old license still work after I request an address change?

Yes. Your old license remains valid and legal to use until your new license arrives. You do not need to stop driving or carry both licenses. Once your new license arrives, you can destroy the old one or keep it for your records.

What if I moved to another state — do I still change my Texas address first?

If you are moving out of Texas permanently, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of changing your Texas address. Texas will not issue a license to someone who does not live in the state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency to understand their process for new residents.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.