The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address on your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. Texas will mail you a replacement license with your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License) along with proof of your new address to the DPS. Processing by mail takes longer — usually 2 to 3 weeks. You can also walk into any DPS office with your current license and proof of address; staff will process the change while you wait, though you'll pay a $20 fee for an expedited replacement license.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with your new license arriving in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address to change it online.
  • Mailing in form DL-43 with proof of address is free but takes 2 to 3 weeks; visiting a DPS office in person costs $20 but is when ready.
  • Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address dated within 90 days.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address on your driver's license. You'll enter your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and ask you to confirm your new address. Once you submit, you're done — no documents to upload, no fees to pay.

Your replacement license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to drive before the replacement comes, your current license is still good; the address change is recorded in the DPS system even though your physical card hasn't changed yet.

Mailing in your address change

read or request form DL-43 from the Texas DPS website. Fill it out completely, including your new address. Attach one document that proves your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and address dated within the last 90 days. Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time DPS receives your envelope. There is no fee for a standard replacement license by mail. Your current license stays valid while you wait. If you're moving out of state or need your new license quickly, this method may not work for your timeline.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address to any DPS office. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent government mail with your name and new address will work. Staff will verify your information, take a new photo if needed, and print your replacement license on the spot.

The in-person service costs $20 for a replacement license. You'll have your new license with your updated address when ready — you can drive away with it the same day. No appointment is required at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times.

What counts as proof of your new address

Texas accepts several documents as proof of address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works if it shows your name and new address. Government mail — a tax document, voter registration card, or benefits letter — also counts if it's dated within 90 days.

The document must show your full name and the complete new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof. If you've just moved and don't have a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your tenancy and move-in date, or bring a copy of your signed lease.

Timing and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online or by mail, your replacement license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your current license is still valid for driving — the address change is already in the DPS system even though your physical card hasn't arrived. If you change your address in person at a DPS office, you leave with your new license the same day.

Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to DPS if you prefer. Your new license is valid for the same expiration date as your old one — changing your address does not extend or shorten the life of your license. If your license expires soon, you may want to renew it at the same time you change your address to avoid doing both separately.

Changing your address if your license is expired or suspended

If your license is expired, you cannot change your address online. You must renew your license first, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS office or a mail-in renewal if your license expired fewer than two years ago. Once your license is renewed, you can change the address online or in person.

If your license is suspended, you cannot change your address until the suspension is lifted. Contact DPS to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do to clear it. Once the suspension is resolved, you can proceed with a standard address change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I just moved and don't have a utility bill yet?

The online process does not ask for proof of address — it only asks you to confirm your new address. You can change your address online when ready after moving. If DPS later requests proof, you can provide it by mail or in person.

Do I need to change my address before or after I register my vehicle?

You can do either. Your driver's license address and vehicle registration address do not have to match. However, it's simpler to update both at the same time. If you're changing your vehicle registration, do that at your county tax assessor's office or through the Texas DPS website.

What happens if I move and don't change my address on my license?

Your license remains valid for driving, but it shows your old address. If you're pulled over, the officer will see the outdated address. You may face questions or delays. It's best to update your address within a reasonable time after moving.

Can I change my address if I'm out of state?

Yes, you can change your address online from anywhere. If you prefer to mail in your change, you can send form DL-43 and proof of address to the DPS from any state. In-person changes must happen at a Texas DPS office.

How much does it cost to change my address?

Changing your address online or by mail is free. Changing your address in person at a DPS office costs $20 for a replacement license. Your current license remains valid while you wait for your replacement, so you don't have to pay for the in-person service unless you need your new license when ready.