Where to change your address in Texas

You can change your address at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person, or online through the DPS website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not suspended, you have no pending tickets, and your address change is within Texas.

The DPS operates driver license offices across all 254 Texas counties. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices accept them to reduce wait time. Walk-in hours vary by location, so check the DPS office locator on their website before you go.

If you prefer to handle this from home, visit the Texas DPS online services portal. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will verify your identity and process the change within a few business days. Your updated license will arrive by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas DPS driver license offices let you change your address in person at any location statewide, with no appointment required at most offices.
  • The online method through the DPS website is faster but only works if your license is not suspended and you have no pending traffic violations.
  • An in-person address change takes about 15 to 30 minutes and your updated license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
  • You will need your current driver license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days.
  • If you move out of state or your license is suspended, you must go in person to a DPS office.

What documents you need to bring

For an in-person address change, bring your current Texas driver license and one document that proves your new address. The DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, insurance policies, or government mail dated within the last 90 days. The document must show your name and the new address.

If you do not have a document in your name at the new address yet, bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, along with a copy of your lease. Some offices will also accept a notarized affidavit stating your new address if you have no other proof.

You do not need to bring your Social Security card or birth certificate for a straightforward address change. Your driver license is enough for identification.

Online address change step by step

Go to the Texas DPS online services website and select "Change Address." You will be asked to enter your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will pull up your current license information.

Enter your new Texas address and confirm it is correct. Double-check the spelling and zip code, because errors will delay your new license. Review the fee (currently $0 for an address-only change) and submit your request.

You will receive a confirmation email within minutes. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives.

In-person address change at a DPS office

Arrive at your nearest DPS driver license office during business hours with your current license and proof of your new address. Tell the clerk you need an address change. They will verify your documents and ask you to sign a form confirming the new address.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You will pay no fee for an address-only change. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks.

If you need your license sooner, some DPS offices offer a rush service for an additional fee, though availability varies by location. Ask the clerk whether rush processing is available at that office.

When you cannot use the online method

The online address change system will reject your request if your license is suspended, you have outstanding traffic violations, or your new address is outside Texas. In these cases, you must go to a DPS office in person.

If your license is suspended, the address change will still be processed, but you will need to resolve the suspension separately before you can legally drive. The address change itself does not lift a suspension.

If you are moving out of state, you will need to obtain a driver license in your new state. Some states allow you to transfer your Texas license; others require you to take a new written test. Contact the motor vehicle department in your new state to learn their rules.

How long it takes and what to expect

An online address change takes two to five business days from submission to confirmation. Your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks after that.

An in-person address change is processed on the spot, but your new license is still mailed to you and arrives within one to two weeks. You will receive a receipt showing your new address as proof of the change while you wait for the physical license.

If your mail is slow or you move frequently, the DPS website lets you check the status of your license by entering your driver license number and date of birth. This tells you whether your new license has been mailed and gives you tracking information if it has been sent.

Changing your address if you moved recently

Texas law does not set a important date for changing your address on your driver license, but you should do it as soon as possible after you move. If you are stopped by police and your license shows an old address, you may be asked to explain the discrepancy, though an outdated address alone is not a violation.

If you moved within the last 30 days and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, bring a signed letter from your landlord or a notarized statement of your new address. The DPS will accept these as temporary proof while you wait for official documents to arrive.

If you moved for work and are living in temporary housing, bring whatever proof you have — a hotel confirmation, an Airbnb receipt, or a letter from your employer stating your work address. The DPS is flexible with recent moves as long as you can show you actually live there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my driver license when I move?

Texas does not legally require you to change your address, but it is strongly recommended. An outdated address can cause problems with traffic tickets, vehicle registration, and insurance claims. Some insurance companies may deny a claim if your address on file does not match your actual residence.

Can I change my address by mail or phone?

No. Texas DPS only accepts address changes in person at a driver license office or online through their website. You cannot change your address by calling, mailing a form, or using a third-party service.

What if I lost my driver license and moved at the same time?

You will need to replace your license first, which requires an in-person visit to a DPS office with proof of identity and residency. Bring your proof of new address along with your birth certificate, Social Security card, and any other ID you have. The DPS will issue a replacement license with your new address in one visit.

Will changing my address affect my driver license points or violations?

No. An address change only updates where your license is mailed and where the DPS sends official notices. It does not erase points, violations, or suspensions. Those remain on your record regardless of your address.

How much does it cost to change my address?

An address-only change costs nothing in Texas. You pay no fee whether you do it online or in person. If you need a replacement license for any other reason at the same time, that service has its own fee.