Where to change your Texas address

You can change your address with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS driver license office. The online option is fastest — you can update your address in minutes without leaving home, and the change takes effect when ready for most purposes. Mail takes about two weeks. In-person visits at a DPS office are same-day if you bring the right documents.

The online method works only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired. If any of those explore, you must go in person or mail your request. You'll need your Texas driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start an online change.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas lets you change your address online through the DPS website in minutes, and the change is when ready.
  • If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot use the online method and must visit a DPS office or mail your request instead.
  • In-person address changes at a DPS office take the same day and require only your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail — it must show your name and new address.
  • You do not need to renew your license to change your address; the change updates your existing license.

What documents you need for an in-person change

Bring your current Texas driver's license and one document that shows your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card). The document must be dated within the last 60 days for utility bills, or within the last year for other documents.

You do not need to bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport for an address change alone. Those documents are only required if you are renewing your license at the same time or if your license was suspended or revoked.

Changing your address by mail

To change your address by mail, read the Change of Address form from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill it out with your current license number, your new address, and sign it. Include a copy of a document showing your name and new address (the same documents listed above work). Mail the form and copy to the DPS address listed on the form.

Processing takes about two weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. You can track the status of your request through the DPS website using your license number. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can still use it to drive or prove your identity.

Changing your address online

Visit the DPS website and select the option to change your address online. You'll enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record or personal history.

Once you complete the process, your address change is recorded when ready in the DPS system. You do not receive a new physical license card — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it, but the DPS records show your new address. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can renew your license at any time, though this is not required.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your Texas license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online. You must visit a DPS office in person or mail your request. When you go in person, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any documents related to why your license was suspended or revoked (such as a letter from DPS explaining the reason).

Changing your address does not lift a suspension or revocation — it only updates where DPS will mail notices about your case. If your license is suspended due to unpaid traffic fines or child support, you'll need to resolve those issues separately before you can drive legally again. The DPS office staff can tell you what steps are required.

Address changes for expired licenses

If your Texas license has expired, you cannot change your address online. You must renew your license, and you can update your address at the same time. Visit a DPS office with your expired license, proof of your new address, and any documents required for renewal (such as proof of residency if you've moved out of state and back).

Renewal and address change happen together in one transaction. You'll receive a new license card with your updated address printed on it. The process takes about 15 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location.

DPS office locations and wait times

Texas has over 130 DPS driver license offices across the state. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. The website also shows the current wait time at each office, updated throughout the day.

Offices are typically less crowded early in the morning on weekdays. Some offices offer online appointment scheduling, which lets you reserve a time slot and skip the walk-in line. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Your current license card remains valid even though the address printed on it is outdated. The DPS system shows your new address, which is what matters for official purposes. If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you can renew your license, but this is optional and costs the standard renewal fee.

How long does an address change take?

Online changes are when ready. In-person changes at a DPS office are same-day. Mail requests take about two weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. You can track your mail request status on the DPS website.

Can I change my address if I just moved out of state and back to Texas?

Yes, but you may need to provide proof of Texas residency, such as a lease or utility bill. If you were out of state for more than a certain period, DPS may require you to renew your license instead of just changing your address. Call your local DPS office or check the website to confirm what documents you need.

What if the address on my proof of residency document doesn't match my new address exactly?

The name and address on your proof document must match what you're entering into the system. If there's a discrepancy — for example, your lease says "123 Main Street, Apt 4B" but you want to register "123 Main Street, Unit 4B" — bring the document anyway and explain the difference to the DPS staff. They can usually accept it if the address is clearly the same place.

Do I need to change my address with my insurance company when I change it with DPS?

Yes, but that's a separate process. Notify your auto insurance company of your address change directly. Some insurers update automatically when DPS records change, but most require you to contact them. Your insurance rates may also change based on your new location, so update them as soon as possible.