Where and How to Change Your Address in Texas

You can update your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is the fastest and requires no documents if you are renewing your license at the same time. If you are not renewing, you must go in person or use the mail option, and you will need to bring proof of your new address.

The online option is available only if your license is not expired and you are updating your address as part of a renewal. You log into your account on the Texas DPS website, verify your identity, and pay the renewal fee. The address change is processed with your renewal process. If your license is expired or you want to change your address without renewing, you must either visit a DPS office in person or mail your documents to the address listed on the DPS website.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas allows address changes online only during license renewal; otherwise you must go in person or mail your request.
  • In-person visits at a DPS office require proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days.
  • Mail-in address changes take 4 to 6 weeks and require the same address proof documents as an in-person visit.
  • You do not need to renew your license to change your address; a change-of-address transaction costs less than a full renewal.

Documents You Need to Bring In Person

If you visit a DPS office to change your address, bring one document that proves your new address. Texas accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, homeowners insurance policies, or bank statements. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within 90 days of your visit. A post office change-of-address confirmation is not accepted as proof of address.

You will also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card. If your license is expired, bring it anyway—the DPS will accept it as identification during the address-change transaction. You do not need to bring additional identification documents for an address change alone, though the DPS may ask for them if your name has changed or if there are questions about your identity.

Mailing Your Address Change Request

To change your address by mail, read the Address Change form from the Texas DPS website or request one by phone. Fill out the form completely, including your driver's license number, current address, and new address. Attach a copy of one document that proves your new address—the same documents accepted in person are accepted by mail. Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the DPS website for your region.

Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope. There is no fee for a change-of-address transaction. Keep a copy of what you mail and consider using certified mail with return receipt so you have proof the DPS received your request. Once processed, the DPS will mail you a new license with your updated address.

Online Renewal with Address Change

If your license is not expired and you are ready to renew, the online method is the fastest way to change your address. Visit the Texas DPS website and log into your account using your driver's license number and date of birth. You will be asked to verify your identity, usually by answering security questions based on your credit history or previous DPS records. Once verified, you can update your address in the renewal form.

You will pay the renewal fee online—the cost varies depending on whether you are renewing a standard license, commercial license, or ID card. After you submit your process, the DPS processes it within 7 to 10 business days. Your new license with the updated address will be mailed to you. You do not need to bring documents or visit an office for this method.

What Happens If Your Address Proof Is Rejected

If the document you bring does not meet the DPS requirements—for example, it is older than 90 days or does not show your name—the DPS will ask you to provide a different document. You can go home, gather an acceptable document, and return to the office. There is no penalty for bringing the wrong document the first time, but you will need to make a second trip.

If you are mailing your request and your address proof is rejected, the DPS will return your form and documents by mail with a note explaining what was wrong. You will then need to gather the correct document and mail your request again. This adds another 4 to 6 weeks to the process, so double-check that your document meets the 90-day rule and shows both your name and new address before you mail it.

Timing and When Your New License Arrives

In-person address changes at a DPS office are processed on the same day you visit. The DPS will print a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being mailed. Your new plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Mail-in requests take 4 to 6 weeks total, and online renewals take 7 to 10 business days after you submit your process.

During the waiting period, your temporary paper license is valid for driving. If you need your new license faster, an in-person visit is your only option—mail and online methods cannot be expedited. Some DPS offices are busier than others; visiting early in the morning or on a weekday typically means shorter wait times.

Finding a DPS Office Near You

Texas has DPS driver license offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the Texas DPS website to find the nearest location, hours, and whether appointments are available. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book an appointment online or by phone. During busy seasons—typically late summer and early fall—wait times can be long, and some offices may have limited appointment slots.

If your local office is very busy, you may be able to visit a different office in a nearby county. All DPS offices process address changes the same way, so you are not required to use the office in your home county. Check the website for offices with shorter wait times or more available appointments before you decide which one to visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. Online address changes are only available during license renewal, and you can only renew online if your license is not expired. If your license is expired, you must visit a DPS office in person or mail your request. You can renew your license and change your address at the same time in person or by mail.

What if I just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

You can use a mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowners insurance policy if you own your home. If you are renting and the lease is not in your name, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and new address, dated within 90 days. Some DPS offices will accept this in place of a lease.

Do I have to renew my license to change my address?

No. A change-of-address transaction is separate from renewal and costs less. You can change your address alone and keep your current license expiration date. However, if your license is expiring soon, it may be more convenient to renew and change your address at the same time.

How long does the paper temporary license last?

The temporary paper license issued at a DPS office is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, so the temporary is usually just a backup. If your permanent license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the DPS to check the status.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

You can change your address, but the DPS will still mail your new license to reflect the suspension or revocation status. Changing your address does not lift a suspension or revocation. If your license is suspended, you must resolve the underlying issue—such as unpaid traffic fines or failure to appear in court—before you can drive legally.