You can change your Texas driver license address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your license is not expired and you have not moved out of state
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without visiting a driver license office, as long as your current license is still valid. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $11. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to receive your confirmation.
If your license has expired, you cannot use the online method — you will need to renew it in person at a DPS office. The same applies if you have moved to another state; Texas can only update addresses for people who still live in Texas.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change works only if your Texas driver license is not expired and you still live in Texas.
- You will pay $11 and receive your updated license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- You need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to start.
- If your license is expired or you moved out of state, you must visit a DPS office in person instead.
Step-by-step process for changing your address online
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change Address" option under driver license services. You will be taken to a find form where you enter your driver license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and ask you to confirm your name and date of birth.
Next, enter your new Texas address exactly as it appears on your mail or official documents. Double-check the zip code and street spelling — mistakes here can delay your new license. You will then enter your email address, which is where DPS will send your confirmation receipt. Review all the information one more time before you submit, because you cannot edit it after you hit the final button.
Pay the $11 fee using a debit or credit card. You will receive a confirmation number by email when ready. Your updated license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can still use it for identification during that time.
When you cannot use the online method
If your driver license has expired, the online address change will not work. You will need to renew your license in person at a DPS office and update your address at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity.
You also cannot change your address online if you have moved out of Texas. If you are now living in another state, you should get a driver license from that state instead of updating your Texas license. If you plan to move back to Texas later and want to keep your Texas license active, you will need to visit a DPS office in person to update your address.
What counts as proof of residency if you need to visit an office
If you end up needing to go to a DPS office, you will need to bring a document that shows your new Texas address. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days.
If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that together prove your residency — for example, a voter registration card plus a piece of mail from your employer. Call your local DPS office before you go to ask what combination they will accept, because requirements can vary slightly between offices.
How long your new license takes to arrive
Standard processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit your online request. This means your new license should arrive by mail within two weeks. If you do not receive it after 10 business days, check your email for any messages from DPS asking for additional information.
Texas does not offer expedited or rush processing for address changes done online. If you need your new license faster, you can visit a DPS office in person and request a temporary paper license that you can use when ready while your permanent license is being made.
What to do if you made a mistake on your online submission
If you realize you entered the wrong address after you submitted your request, contact the DPS when ready. Call the DPS customer service line or visit your local driver license office with your confirmation number. DPS may be able to stop the order if it has not yet been printed, but if the license has already been made, you will need to request a replacement with the correct address.
Requesting a replacement for an address error typically costs another $11. To avoid this, take extra time to verify your address before you click submit — check your zip code especially, since mail carriers use that to route your envelope.
Your old license and the transition period
Your current driver license remains valid for identification and driving until your new one arrives. You do not need to do anything with your old license when the new one comes in the mail — just start using the new one. You can throw away the old one or keep it in a safe place if you prefer.
If you are stopped by police during the 7 to 10 days you are waiting for your new license, your old license with the outdated address is still legal to use. Police understand that address changes take time to process. If you have your confirmation email from DPS, you can show that as well to explain why your license address does not match your current residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license expires in the next few months?
No. Your license must not be expired at the time you submit your online request. If your license is expiring soon, you should renew it in person at a DPS office and update your address at the same time. This takes longer but handles both tasks in one visit.
What if I do not have a valid email address?
You will need an email address to receive your confirmation receipt from DPS. If you do not have one, you can create a free email account through Gmail, Yahoo, or Outlook in about five minutes. Once you have an email address, you can proceed with the online address change.
Do I have to use the online method, or can I change my address in person instead?
You can change your address in person at any DPS driver license office if you prefer. Bring your current license, proof of your new Texas address, and proof of identity. In-person changes are processed when ready, so you can get a temporary paper license to use right away if you need one.
Will changing my address online affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address does not affect your driving record or any tickets or violations on your license. Your insurance company will need to know about your address change separately — contact them directly to update your policy. Some insurance companies offer discounts based on your zip code, so updating them may change your rate.
What if my new address is a PO box or apartment without a street address?
The online system requires a street address, not a PO box. If you live in an apartment, use your apartment number. If you only have a PO box, you will need to visit a DPS office in person to discuss your options, as some situations require special handling.