You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website in about 10 minutes
Texas lets you update your driver's license address without visiting a DPS office, as long as your license is not expired and you meet a few basic requirements. The online process is called the Address Change Service, and it costs nothing. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will email you a confirmation, and your new address takes effect when ready — you do not have to wait for a replacement card to arrive.
The replacement card itself arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, your old card is still valid for identification purposes, even though the address on it is outdated. If you need the card sooner — for example, if you are moving out of state — you can pay to expedite it, though most people do not need to.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas DPS Address Change Service is free and takes about 10 minutes on the DPS website.
- Your new address is active when ready after you complete the online process, even before your replacement card arrives.
- You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to use the online service.
- Your replacement card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; your old card remains valid for ID until then.
- If your license is expired or you cannot use the online system, you must visit a DPS office in person.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to the DPS website: your current Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and an email address where you can receive the confirmation. You will also need to know your new address — the street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
The online service only works if your license is not expired. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it online and will need to visit a DPS office to update your address at the same time. If your license expired within the last two years, you can renew it online through a separate process and update your address during that renewal.
Steps to change your address online
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Address Change" option under the "Driver License" section. You will be taken to a form that asks for your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter both exactly as they appear on your license and your Social Security card.
Next, enter your new address in the fields provided. Make sure the street address, city, state, and ZIP code are correct — this is what will print on your replacement card. The system will ask you to confirm your email address; this is where DPS will send your confirmation receipt. After you review everything one more time, submit the form.
You will receive an email confirmation within a few minutes. This email confirms that your address change was processed and that a replacement card has been ordered. Keep this email for your records. Your new address is now active in the DPS system when ready, even though your physical card still shows the old address.
When your replacement card arrives
The replacement card with your new address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. It comes to the new address you provided, so make sure you entered it correctly. If you do not receive it within two weeks, you can contact the DPS to check on the status.
Until the new card arrives, your current license is still valid for all purposes — driving, identification, and age verification. You do not need to carry both cards or explain that your address changed. Law enforcement and businesses understand that addresses change and that replacement cards take time to arrive.
If the online service does not work for you
The online Address Change Service has a few limits. If your license is expired, you cannot use it. If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must visit a DPS office in person because address changes on commercial licenses require additional steps. If you are changing your name at the same time as your address, you also need to go to an office.
If any of these explore to you, find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website and bring your current license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease), and any other documents the office lists. You can make an appointment online to avoid waiting, though walk-ins are also accepted.
What counts as proof of your new address
If you end up visiting a DPS office, you will need to show proof that you actually live at the new address. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement showing your new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
If you are moving and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, you can use a letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, or a notarized statement confirming your new address. Call your local DPS office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your specific document will work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online if my license expires soon?
Yes. The online Address Change Service works as long as your license is not already expired. If your license expires within the next few months, you can still change your address online now. When your license does expire, you will renew it separately, and the new address will already be in the system.
What if I enter the wrong address by mistake?
Contact the DPS right away. You can call the DPS Customer Service line or visit a local DPS office to request a correction. If you catch the mistake before your replacement card arrives, they may be able to stop the card and reissue it with the correct address. If the card has already been mailed, you will need to request a replacement with the correct address.
Do I need to update my address with the post office too?
Yes. Changing your address with the DPS only updates your driver's license. You should also file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service so your mail gets forwarded to your new home. You can do this online at USPS.com or at your local post office.
How long does the replacement card take if I pay for expedited shipping?
Texas DPS does not offer expedited shipping for replacement cards ordered through the online Address Change Service. The standard delivery time is 7 to 10 business days. If you need a new card faster, you can visit a DPS office in person and request a replacement card there; some offices can issue a temporary paper license on the spot.
Can I change my address if I have a learner's permit instead of a full license?
No. The online Address Change Service is only for people with a valid driver's license. If you have a learner's permit, you must visit a DPS office in person to update your address. Bring your permit, proof of your new address, and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.