You can change your Texas driver's license address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your license is not expired and you have no outstanding violations or suspensions
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without visiting a driver license office, but the online option has strict limits. You can use the online system only if your current license is valid, you have no active holds or suspensions on your record, and you are not changing your name. If any of those conditions explore to you, you must visit a driver license office in person or use the mail-in method.
The online system is the fastest route when you may have access to. You log into your account on the DPS website, verify your identity, and submit the new address. The system confirms the change when ready, and you receive a new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee for an address-only change.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes work only if your license is not expired, you have no suspensions or violations, and you are not changing your name at the same time.
- The DPS online system at texas.gov/dps lets you submit an address change and receive a new license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days at no cost.
- If you do not meet the online requirements, you can mail a completed form DL-43 to the DPS address listed on their website, though this takes longer.
- Visiting a driver license office in person works for any address change situation and is the only option if your license is expired or suspended.
How the online address change process works step by step
Start by going to the Texas DPS website and logging into your driver license account. You will need your driver's license number and a password you created during registration. If you do not have an account yet, you can create one on the same page using your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Once logged in, look for the option to update your address. The system will ask you to confirm your current information and then enter your new address. Double-check the address before submitting because the new license will be mailed to whatever address you enter. After you submit, the system shows a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you have questions about your order.
Your new license is printed and mailed to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue using it for identification during that time.
When you cannot use the online system and what to do instead
The online option is not available if your license is expired, if you have any active suspensions or violations on your driving record, or if you need to change your name at the same time. You also cannot use the online system if your license was issued outside Texas or if you are under 18 years old.
If you fall into any of those categories, you have two options: mail in a form or visit a driver license office. The mail-in route uses form DL-43, which you can read from the DPS website or request by phone. Fill out the form, include a copy of your proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your new address), and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks by mail, longer than the online method.
Visiting a driver license office works for any situation. You bring your current license, proof of residency at your new address, and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). The office updates your address on the spot, and you receive a new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for an address-only change at the office either.
What counts as proof of residency in Texas
Texas DPS accepts a narrow list of documents as proof that you live at your new address. The document must show your name and the new address and must be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank or credit card statement also works. Property tax records and homeowners insurance documents are accepted as well.
Documents that do not count include cell phone bills, insurance policies that do not show your address, printed bank statements from online-only banks, or letters from employers. If you are homeless or do not have a document in your name, you can use a notarized letter from someone who can confirm your residence, though this is less common and may require a visit to an office to explain your situation.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit your change
If you use the online system, your new license ships within 1 to 2 business days and arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license during this time. If you mail in form DL-43, expect 4 to 6 weeks total. If you visit an office, the new license is mailed the same day and arrives in 7 to 10 business days.
You do not receive a confirmation email or text from DPS after an online submission, so keep your confirmation number. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, you can contact the DPS by phone or through their website using that number. Do not assume it is lost — mail delays happen, especially during high-volume periods.
Situations where you must visit a driver license office in person
An expired license requires an in-person visit because the DPS system will not let you renew and change your address at the same time online. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address online; you must go to an office and may need to resolve the suspension first. A name change also requires an office visit — you will need to bring a certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.
If you are under 18, you must visit an office because a parent or guardian must be present. If your license was issued in another state and you are now moving to Texas, you need to explore for a new Texas license in person, not just change your address. The office staff can tell you what documents you need when you call ahead.
How to find your nearest driver license office and prepare for a visit
The DPS website has a search tool where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby driver license offices, their hours, and whether they require an appointment. Many offices now use an online appointment system; you can book a time slot before you go, which cuts your wait time significantly. Some offices still operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so check before you arrive.
Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. If you are changing your name, bring the certified court document. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early if you have an appointment. If you are going without one, go early in the day — offices get busier in the afternoon. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you are called.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay a fee to change my address on my Texas driver's license?
No. An address-only change costs nothing whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you are renewing your license at the same time or making other changes like a name or class change.
What if I moved but have not received my new license after two weeks?
Contact the DPS using your confirmation number from your online submission or the tracking information from your mailed form. Mail delays do happen, but the DPS can check the status and remail your license if needed. Your old license remains valid for identification until the new one arrives.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended?
You cannot use the online system if your license is suspended. You must visit a driver license office in person. The office staff can update your address, but you may need to resolve the suspension before you can drive legally.
If I move again before my new license arrives, what should I do?
Contact the DPS when ready with your confirmation number and provide the correct address. They can redirect your license to the new address if it has not shipped yet. If it has already shipped, you may need to pick it up at a driver license office or have it reissued to the correct address.
Is the online system find, and is my personal information protected?
The DPS website uses encryption and security measures standard for state government sites. Your information is stored in the state's database. Like any online system, you should use a find internet connection and never share your login credentials with anyone.