How to Change Your Address on a Texas Driver's License

What You Need to Do in Texas

To change your address on a Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver's license office in person. Texas does not allow address changes by mail, phone, or online. You will need to bring proof of your new address and your current license, and the DPS will issue you a new license with the updated address at no extra charge.

The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes at the office. Your current license remains valid while you wait for the new one, which is printed on-site. You leave with your new license the same day.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS driver's license office in person; there is no online, mail, or phone option in Texas.
Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
There is no fee to change your address; the new license is issued at no cost.
Your new license is printed while you wait and you can leave with it the same day.
If your license has expired or will expire within 60 days, you may need to renew it instead of just changing the address.

Documents You Must Bring

Bring your current Texas driver's license and one document that proves your new address. The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document with your name and address.

The address on your proof document must match the address you want on your license. If you just moved and have not yet received a bill or statement at your new address, ask your utility company or bank for a letter on letterhead showing your new address. Some landlords will provide a signed lease or move-in letter if you do not have a formal lease yet.

Do not bring a post office change-of-address form; the DPS does not accept it as proof of residence.

Finding a DPS Driver's License Office Near You

Texas has over 130 DPS driver's license offices across the state. You can find the office closest to you by visiting the Texas DPS website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-844-DL-TEXAS (1-844-358-3927). The website shows each office's hours, which vary by location.

Some offices are busier than others. Offices in smaller towns often have shorter wait times than those in major cities. If you have flexibility, visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means a shorter wait. A few offices offer online appointment scheduling through the DPS website, which can reduce your time in line.

What Happens If Your License Is Expiring Soon

If your Texas driver's license expires within 60 days, you cannot change only the address. Instead, you must renew your license, which includes updating your address. Renewal requires the same documents as an address change, plus your current license and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form).

A renewal license costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew; you must explore for a new license, which requires additional documents including proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of Social Security number. This process takes longer and costs more than a straightforward address change or renewal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing a document that is too old. The DPS will not accept proof of address older than 60 days. If your move was recent and you have not received a bill yet, contact your utility company or bank and ask for a letter or statement dated within the last 60 days.

Another mistake is bringing only a post office change-of-address form or a lease that is not signed. The DPS requires an actual utility bill, bank statement, or signed lease. If you are renting and do not have a signed lease, ask your landlord for a move-in letter on their letterhead with your name, the property address, and the move-in date.

Do not assume you can change your address by phone or mail. Texas requires an in-person visit. If you cannot visit an office yourself, you can authorize someone else to go on your behalf, but you must provide them with a signed, notarized power of attorney form. This adds time and cost, so it is usually faster to go yourself.

If You Lost Your License or It Was Stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot straightforward change the address. You must report it to the DPS and request a replacement. A replacement license costs $11 and includes your current address if you provide proof of your new address. Bring the same address proof documents as you would for an address change.

If you do not know your license number, bring your Social Security card or other proof of identity. The DPS can look up your license information in their system. If your license was stolen, you may also want to file a report with local police, though this is not required by the DPS.

Timeline and What to Expect

The address change itself takes 15 to 20 minutes once you are called to a window. Wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day. In busy urban offices, you might wait 30 minutes to an hour. In smaller towns, you may be seen within 10 minutes.

Your new license is printed on-site and you leave with it the same day. You do not need to wait for anything to arrive by mail. Your old license is returned to you or destroyed, depending on the office's procedure. If you need your old license for any reason, ask the DPS staff before they take it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online or by mail in Texas?

No. Texas requires you to visit a DPS driver's license office in person. There is no online portal or mail-in option for address changes. You must bring your current license and proof of your new address to an office.

What if I do not have a utility bill yet at my new address?

Contact your utility company, bank, or landlord and ask for a letter on letterhead showing your name and new address, dated within the last 60 days. A signed lease or rental agreement also works. The DPS accepts any document that shows your name and current address and is dated within 60 days.

Do I have to pay a fee to change my address?

No. Changing your address on an active, non-expired license is free. You only pay if you are renewing your license at the same time (which costs $16 or $32 depending on the license term) or if you are replacing a lost or stolen license ($11).

Can someone else change my address for me?

Yes, but only if you give them a signed, notarized power of attorney form. They will still need to bring your current license and proof of your new address. Most people find it faster and easier to go themselves.

How long does my new license take to arrive?

Your new license is printed while you wait at the DPS office. You leave with it the same day. There is no waiting period or mail delivery.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.