The fastest way to change your address on a Texas driver's license
You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $11. If your license is expired, your name has changed, or you prefer to update in person, you will need to visit a DPS office instead.
Texas allows you to change your address up to 30 days before you move or any time after you move. There is no penalty for updating late, but your license should reflect your current address for identification purposes.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option and costs $11 if your license is not expired.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
- If your license is expired or your name has changed, you must visit a DPS office in person to update your address.
- Visiting a DPS office in person is free but requires an appointment, which you can book through the DPS website.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" and enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current license information and ask you to confirm your new address.
After you submit your new address, you will receive a confirmation email. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to return your old license — it becomes invalid once the new one arrives. During this time, your old license is still valid for identification.
The $11 fee is charged to a debit or credit card during the online process. This fee covers the cost of issuing and mailing your new license.
When you must visit a DPS office instead
If your driver's license is expired, you cannot change your address online. You will need to renew your license at the same time, which requires an in-person visit. Similarly, if you have changed your name since your license was issued, you must go to a DPS office to update both your name and address together.
Some people prefer to update their address in person even when they could do it online. This is always an option — there is no requirement to use the online system. An in-person address change is free and takes about 15 minutes once you are called.
How to schedule an appointment at a DPS office
Visit the Texas DPS website and use the "Appointment Scheduling System" to find a driver's license office near you and book a time slot. You can search by city or zip code. Most offices have appointments available within one to two weeks, though this varies by location and season.
Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days. If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, bring a letter from your landlord or a family member who lives with you, along with their ID.
What counts as proof of your new address
The Texas DPS accepts several types of 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 as well. Government mail — such as a tax document, voter registration card, or benefits letter — also counts if it is dated within the last 30 days.
If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at your new address, you can bring a notarized letter from your landlord or a family member stating that you live there, along with their government-issued ID. Some offices also accept a signed affidavit of residence, which you can fill out at the office itself.
Timeline for receiving your updated license
If you change your address online, your new license will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you change it in person at a DPS office, you will receive your new license by mail within the same timeframe. Texas does not issue licenses on the spot for address changes.
Your old license remains valid for identification during the wait. Once your new license arrives, destroy the old one or keep it for your records — there is no requirement to return it.
What to do if you move before your new license arrives
If you are moving again before your new license arrives, contact the Texas DPS to update your address a second time. You can do this online if your license is not expired, or by phone at 1-888-589-6789. Have your driver's license number and new address ready when you call.
If your new license is already in the mail to your first new address, the DPS may be able to intercept it and reroute it to your second address, though this is not may provide. Calling as soon as you know you are moving again gives them the best chance to redirect it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes. A suspended or revoked license can still be updated for address. However, you cannot drive legally while your license is suspended or revoked, regardless of whether the address is current. Contact the DPS or your local court to understand the status of your license and what steps are needed to restore it.
Do I need to change my address on my license if I move out of state?
No. If you move out of Texas, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. You do not need to update your Texas license. However, if you are moving temporarily and plan to return to Texas, you can update your address online before you leave.
What if I never received my new license in the mail?
Contact the Texas DPS at 1-888-589-6789 with your driver's license number. They can check the status of your license and confirm the address it was mailed to. If it was lost or stolen, they can issue a replacement. There may be a small fee for a replacement license.
Can I change my address on my license if I do not have a Social Security number?
The online system requires the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you must visit a DPS office in person to change your address. Bring your current license and proof of your new address, as you would for any in-person update.
Is there a fee to change my address in person at a DPS office?
No. Changing your address at a DPS office is free. You only pay the $11 fee if you change your address online. The fee covers the cost of printing and mailing your new license.