You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website in about 10 minutes
Texas lets you update your driver license address without visiting a DPS office. You go to the official Texas DPS website, log into your account, and submit the new address. The change takes effect when ready for your records, though your physical license still shows the old address until you renew it.
This online method works only if your address changed within Texas. If you moved from another state, you will need to visit a DPS office in person to get a new license with your Texas address. The online process also does not work if your license is suspended, expired for more than two years, or if you need to change your name.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas DPS online address change tool is free and takes about 10 minutes from your computer or phone.
- You must have a valid Texas driver license and know your license number and date of birth to start.
- Your address updates in the system right away, but your physical card keeps the old address until you renew.
- Moving from out of state requires an in-person visit to a DPS office; the online tool only works for moves within Texas.
- Your new address is used for voter registration, vehicle registration, and any official mail from the state.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to the Texas DPS website. You will need your current Texas driver license number, your date of birth, and a valid email address where you can receive a confirmation. You should also have your new address written down, including the street, city, state, and ZIP code.
Make sure your license is not suspended or revoked. If you are unsure about the status of your license, you can check it on the Texas DPS website before attempting the address change. You will also need internet access and a few minutes of quiet time to complete the form without interruption.
Steps to change your address online
Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and look for the "Online Services" section. Click on the link for driver license address change or "Update Your Address." You will be taken to a login page where you enter your driver license number and date of birth.
Once you are logged in, you will see a form asking for your new address. Type in your street address, city, state, and ZIP code exactly as you want it to appear in the system. Double-check for spelling and numbers before you submit. After you submit the form, you will receive an email confirmation with a reference number. Save this number in case you need to follow up.
When your address change takes effect
Your address updates in the Texas DPS database when ready after you submit the form online. This means your new address is active for purposes like vehicle registration, insurance, and official state mail. Law enforcement can see your current address when they run your license.
However, your physical driver license card itself will still show your old address. You do not need to do anything about this. When you renew your license at the end of its validity period, you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it. If you need a new card with the updated address before your renewal date, you can visit a DPS office and request a duplicate license, though this usually costs a fee.
What happens if you move out of state
If you relocated to Texas from another state, you cannot use the online address change tool. Texas law requires you to visit a DPS office in person and explore for a new Texas driver license. You will need to bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), proof of Social Security number, and proof of identity.
The in-person process takes longer than the online method and usually requires an appointment. You can schedule an appointment on the Texas DPS website. When you get your new Texas license, it will have your Texas address and a new license number. Your old out-of-state license becomes invalid.
Situations where you cannot use the online tool
The online address change does not work if your license is expired by more than two years, suspended, or revoked. If any of these explore to you, you must visit a DPS office to handle your address change in person. You will also need to address the suspension or expiration at the same time.
If you need to change your name along with your address, the online tool will not let you do both at once. You must visit an office to change your name, and you can update your address at the same time. Similarly, if you want to change your license class or add endorsements, those changes require an in-person visit.
Confirming your change was received
Check your email for the confirmation message that the Texas DPS sends after you submit your address change. This email will include a reference number and the new address that is now in the system. Keep this email for your records.
If you do not receive a confirmation email within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder. If it is not there, log back into the Texas DPS website and check whether your address appears as updated in your account. If the address did not change, try submitting again. If you continue to have trouble, you can contact the Texas DPS by phone or visit a local office for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update my address with the DMV if I already changed it online?
No. The Texas DPS is the only agency you need to notify. Your address change with DPS automatically updates your vehicle registration and other state records. You do not need to contact the DMV separately because Texas DPS handles both driver licenses and vehicle registration.
Will my new address show on my physical license card right away?
No. Your physical card keeps your old address until you renew your license. The new address is active in the system when ready, but it will not appear on a new card until your renewal date arrives. If you need a card with the updated address sooner, you can request a duplicate license at a DPS office for a fee.
What if I entered my address wrong and need to fix it?
Log back into the Texas DPS website using your license number and date of birth. You can submit a new address change form to correct the mistake. The system will update to your new entry. Keep the confirmation email from the correction so you have proof of the change.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Not online. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must visit a DPS office in person to renew it and change your address at the same time. If your license expired within the last two years, you may be able to renew online through a separate process, depending on your situation.
How long does it take for my new address to show up in the system?
Your address updates in the Texas DPS database when ready after you submit the form. You should see it reflected in your account right away. However, it may take a few business days for the change to appear in other systems like voter registration or insurance company records.