How to change your address on a Texas driver's license

You can change your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) without renewing your license early. The fastest way is online through the DPS website if your license is still valid and you have not had any violations or address changes in the past 60 days. If you cannot use the online method, you can visit a DPS office in person with proof of your new address.

The address change itself is free and takes about five to ten minutes if you go in person. Online changes process within a few business days. Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it, but your record in the DPS system updates when ready, which is what matters for most purposes like vehicle registration or mail forwarding.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas allows you to change your address online through the DPS website without visiting an office or paying a fee.
  • Online address changes require a valid Texas driver's license and work only if you have not had violations or previous address changes within 60 days.
  • If you cannot change your address online, you can visit any DPS office with a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Your physical license card keeps your old address until renewal, but the DPS system updates right away for official purposes.
  • If your license is expired or suspended, you must visit a DPS office in person to change your address.

Changing your address online through DPS

The online method is available at dps.texas.gov under the "Driver License" section. You will need your Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it. You do not need to upload documents or take a new photo.

Online changes are not available if your license is expired, suspended, or cancelled. You also cannot use the online method if you have changed your address within the past 60 days or if you have had any traffic violations recorded in that time. If any of these explore to you, you will need to visit a DPS office instead.

After you submit your change online, the DPS system updates within one to three business days. You will receive a confirmation email if you provided one. Your new address becomes official in the DPS database when ready, even though your physical card will not change until you renew your license.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

If you cannot change your address online, visit any DPS driver license office in Texas. You will need to bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it. The document must be dated within the past 60 days.

You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines. Some offices allow you to check wait times online before you go. The address change takes about five to ten minutes once you reach the window.

There is no fee for changing your address. The DPS will update your record on the spot, and you will receive a receipt showing your new address. Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it, but your official record is updated when ready.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts documents dated within 60 days of your visit. A utility bill in your name is the most common choice. Other documents that work include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or official government mail addressed to you at your new address.

The document must have your name and your new address printed on it. A handwritten address does not count. If you just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some will provide this within a day or two.

When your physical license card will update

Your driver's license card itself will continue to show your old address until you renew your license. In Texas, standard licenses are valid for five years from your birthday. When you renew, you can request a new card with your current address, or the DPS will issue one automatically with your renewal.

This does not cause problems for most purposes. Police officers, banks, and government agencies check the DPS database, not the address printed on your card. Your vehicle registration, insurance, and official records all pull from the updated DPS system. The old address on your physical card is straightforward outdated information, not an error.

Updating your address for vehicle registration and mail

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You must notify the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) separately if your vehicle registration is in your name. You can update vehicle registration online at txdmv.gov or by mail, and there is no fee for an address change.

If you are moving, also file a change of address with the United States Postal Service so your mail forwards to your new location. This is separate from both your driver's license and vehicle registration. You can do this online at usps.com or at your local post office.

What to do if your license is expired or suspended

If your Texas driver's license is expired, you cannot change your address online. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and any documents required for renewal if your license has been expired for more than two years. A DPS employee can tell you what you need when you arrive.

If your license is suspended or cancelled, you also cannot use the online method. Visit a DPS office to find out why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. An address change may be possible at the same visit, but the suspension must be resolved first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I just moved?

Yes, as long as your license is valid and you have not changed your address in the past 60 days. If you changed your address more recently than that, you must wait until 60 days have passed or visit a DPS office in person instead.

Do I need to bring my old license to change my address online?

No. You only need your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. If you visit a DPS office in person, bring your physical license and proof of your new address.

Will my insurance company know about my address change?

Not automatically. You must contact your insurance company separately to update your address. Some insurers check the DPS database, but it is your responsibility to notify them. Failing to update your insurance address could affect your coverage or claims.

How long does it take to change my address at a DPS office?

The actual transaction takes five to ten minutes, but total time depends on how busy the office is. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon usually means shorter waits. Some offices post estimated wait times online.

What if I do not have a document showing my new address yet?

Ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Most will provide this within a day or two. The letter must include your name and new address and be dated within 60 days of your visit.