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 can do it from home in minutes. If you go in person, bring your current driver license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.

The address change itself costs nothing. You won't receive a new physical license card in the mail unless you request one, though your new address will be recorded in the system when ready. If you do want a replacement card with your updated address printed on it, that costs $11 and takes about two weeks to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online for free through the DPS website if your license is current, and the change takes effect right away.
  • In-person changes at any DPS office require your current license and a document showing your new address dated within 90 days.
  • You do not automatically receive a new card with your updated address — you only get one if you pay $11 and request it.
  • Mail-in changes are possible but slower; contact your local DPS office for the current mailing address and required documents.

Changing your address online through DPS

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Online Services" section. You'll need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. Once you're in your account, select the option to update your address and enter your new one. The system will confirm the change when ready, and you're done — no fee, no waiting.

This online method only works if your license is not expired and you're not changing any other information like your name. If your license has expired or you need to update your name at the same time, you'll need to visit a DPS office in person or renew your license through the mail.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Bring your current driver license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, insurance bill, or bank statement all work, as long as it's dated within the last 90 days. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

The staff member will update your address in the system on the spot. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, tell them at the counter and pay the $11 fee. Without requesting a replacement, your address will be updated in the system but your old card will still show the old address until it expires.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

A replacement card costs $11 and is optional — your address change is complete in the system whether you get a new card or not. If you decide you want one, you can request it when you change your address in person, or you can order one online through the DPS website for the same price. The card will arrive by mail in about two weeks.

You might want a replacement card if you use your driver license for identification frequently and prefer not to explain that your address has changed. Otherwise, the old card remains valid for driving and identification purposes even after your address is updated in the system.

Changing your address by mail

Mail-in address changes are possible but take longer than online or in-person options. Contact your local DPS office to ask for the mailing address and the specific form or instructions they require. You'll typically need to send your current driver license, a completed form, and proof of your new address. Processing time by mail is usually two to four weeks, plus the time it takes for your documents to arrive.

This option is useful if you cannot visit an office and prefer not to use the online system, but it's the slowest route. If you're moving out of state or your license is expiring soon, consider handling the address change in person or online first, then dealing with renewal or other changes separately.

What happens if you don't update your address

Your driver license remains valid for driving even if your address is outdated. However, if you're pulled over, the address on your card won't match your current residence, which can create confusion. More importantly, if you receive a traffic ticket or other official notice, it may be sent to your old address and you might miss important important date.

For vehicle registration and insurance purposes, your address should match what's on file with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and your insurance company. Mismatched addresses can cause problems with renewal notices and claims. It's simpler to update everything at once when you move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to change my address at a DPS office?

Most DPS offices do not require appointments for address changes. You can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary. Check your local office's website to see if they offer online scheduling or have specific hours for address-only transactions.

What counts as proof of my new address?

Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, insurance bills, and bank statements all work as long as they're dated within the last 90 days and show your name and new address. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. The document must be an original or certified copy, not a photo or printout.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, you cannot change your address online if your license is expired. You'll need to visit a DPS office in person to update your address, or you can renew your license and update your address at the same time. Renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person depending on how long your license has been expired.

Will I get a new card automatically when I change my address?

No. Your address will be updated in the system, but your old card will still show the old address. You only receive a new card if you pay $11 and request one. Without requesting a replacement, you keep your current card.

How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?

If you change your address online or in person at a DPS office, the change takes effect when ready. If you change it by mail, it typically takes two to four weeks after the office receives your documents. If you ordered a replacement card, the new card arrives in about two weeks but your address is already updated in the system.