Where to change your address and what you'll need

You can change your address on your Texas driver license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, online through the DPS website, or by mail. The online option is the fastest if your license is current and you're only updating your address — you won't need to visit an office or pay a fee. If you choose to go in person, bring your current driver license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security number.

The mail-in route takes longer but works if you can't reach a DPS office. You'll mail your current license, a completed DL-43 form (process for Texas Driver License), and proof of your new address to the DPS address listed on their website. Processing typically takes two to three weeks, and you'll receive your updated license by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes through the DPS website are free and take minutes if your license is not expired and you have no outstanding violations or suspensions.
  • In-person changes at a DPS office require your current license, proof of your new address dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number, with no fee charged.
  • Mail-in changes require the DL-43 form, your current license, and proof of address, and take two to three weeks to process.
  • If your license is expired, suspended, or you have certain violations, you cannot change your address online and must visit a DPS office in person.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

The DPS online system lets you update your address without leaving home if your license meets certain conditions. Your license must be current (not expired), you cannot have any active suspensions or violations, and you must have a valid email address on file. Log into your account on the DPS website, select the address change option, enter your new address, and confirm. The change takes effect when ready, though your physical license still shows the old address until it expires and you renew.

This method works best if you've recently moved and want your records updated quickly for insurance, voter registration, or other purposes. However, if you need a physical license with your new address printed on it, you'll have to wait until your renewal date or pay for an early renewal at a DPS office.

Visiting a DPS office in person

Walk-in service is available at most DPS offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring your current driver license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days), and be ready to provide your Social Security number. The fee for an address change is waived — you only pay if you're renewing your license early or requesting a duplicate.

Some DPS offices use an online appointment system to reduce wait times. Check the DPS website for your nearest office, its hours, and whether appointments are available. If you go without an appointment, arrive early in the day, as offices often reach capacity in the afternoon. You'll receive your updated license on the spot or within a few days if the office needs to mail it.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 90 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and bank or credit card statements all work. Some offices also accept mail from government agencies, insurance companies, or employers if it shows your name and address.

Documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your name on the document doesn't match your license exactly (for example, you've married or divorced since your license was issued), bring a second document showing both names, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Changing your address by mail

Complete the DL-43 form, available on the DPS website or at any DPS office. Include your current driver license, a copy of proof of your new address, and mail everything to the address listed on the DPS website. Do not send cash — the DPS does not charge for address changes. Include a return envelope with postage if you want your old license returned.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives your materials. Your updated license will arrive by mail. This method is useful if you live far from a DPS office or have limited availability to visit in person, but it means you'll be without your physical license during processing.

When you cannot change your address online

If your license is expired, suspended, or cancelled, you cannot use the online system. The same applies if you have an active violation, outstanding traffic ticket, or child support obligation on file. In these cases, you must visit a DPS office in person. A DPS employee can determine whether you need to renew your license, resolve the violation, or take another step before your address can be updated.

If your license was suspended for a medical reason or failure to pay a traffic fine, the DPS office can often help you understand what's required to restore it. Bring all relevant documents — court notices, medical clearance letters, or proof of payment — so the office can process everything at once.

How long the address change takes

Online changes are when ready. In-person changes at a DPS office usually result in an updated license on the same day, though some offices mail licenses instead of issuing them when ready — ask when you arrive. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks from receipt, plus mailing time on both ends, so plan for four to five weeks total.

If you need your updated license urgently for a specific purpose (travel, a job requirement, or legal proceedings), the DPS office can sometimes issue a temporary paper license or expedite processing. Ask about these options when you visit or call ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my driver license address if I move?

Texas law requires you to report a change of address within 30 days of moving. Failing to do so can result in a fine. However, the requirement is to report the change to the DPS, not necessarily to carry a license with the new address printed on it — an online change or mail-in change satisfies the legal requirement even if your physical license still shows the old address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, you cannot change your address online if your license is expired. You must visit a DPS office in person, and you may need to renew your license at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and your Social Security number. The office will tell you whether renewal is required.

What if my proof of address is in someone else's name?

The DPS requires proof of address to show your name. If you've recently married, divorced, or changed your name, bring a second document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Some offices accept a lease or mortgage in a spouse's name if you also bring a marriage certificate.

Will my insurance company know about my address change automatically?

No. Your insurance company does not receive automatic updates from the DPS. You must contact your insurance company separately to report your move. Failing to do so can affect your coverage or rates, so update your insurer as soon as you change your address with the DPS.

Can I change my address at a DPS office outside my county?

Yes. Any DPS office in Texas can process an address change regardless of which county you live in. You do not have to visit the office in your home county.