Where to change your address and what you 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, by mail, or by phone. The fastest route is online if you have a valid email address and your current license number. The in-person route at a DPS office takes about 15 to 30 minutes and requires no appointment at most locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day.

What you bring depends on which method you choose. For an in-person visit, bring your current driver license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. If you are changing your address by mail, you will need to send your current license along with a completed form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License) and a copy of your address proof.

Online changes are the simplest if you meet the requirements: your license must not be expired or suspended, you must have a valid email address, and you cannot have certain restrictions on your license. The DPS website walks you through the process and charges a fee, which varies depending on how much time remains on your current license.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your address online, in person at a DPS office, by mail, or by phone, with online being the fastest for most people.
  • For an in-person visit, bring your current license and one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Online changes require a valid email, a current (not expired) license, and no suspension or certain restrictions on your record.
  • The fee for changing your address depends on how much time is left on your license and which method you use.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

The DPS website allows you to change your address without visiting an office. Go to the Texas DPS website, select the option to change your address, and enter your driver license number and date of birth. The system will verify your identity and show you your current information.

You will then enter your new address and confirm it. The system will ask you to review the changes before you submit. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. Your new address takes effect when ready for most purposes, though your physical license card will still show the old address until you renew or replace it.

If you want a new license card with your updated address printed on it, you can order a replacement card through the same online process for an additional fee. This card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Walk into any DPS office during business hours with your current license and your address proof. Most offices do not require an appointment. Hand both documents to the clerk and tell them you need to change your address.

The clerk will verify your information, take your documents, and process the change. You will pay a fee at the counter. Your new address is recorded when ready in the system. Your physical license card will not change unless you request a replacement card, which you can do at the same time for an additional fee.

DPS offices are typically open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours, especially if you are planning to visit on a day other than a weekday morning.

Changing your address by mail

read form DL-43 from the Texas DPS website. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Make a copy of one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Mail both the completed form and the copy of your address proof to the address listed on the DPS website. Include a check or money order for the fee. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want your current license card returned to you.

Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time DPS receives your envelope. Your new address is recorded when DPS processes your form, but your physical license card will not change unless you request a replacement. Keep your current license with you until you receive confirmation that your address has been changed in the system.

Changing your address by phone

Call the Texas DPS at the number listed on the DPS website. A representative will verify your identity by asking for your driver license number, date of birth, and other personal information. They will confirm your new address with you and process the change.

You will be asked to pay the fee by credit card or debit card over the phone. Your new address takes effect when ready in the system. As with other methods, your physical license card will not change unless you request a replacement card.

Phone lines can have wait times, especially during peak hours. Calling early in the morning or mid-week may result in shorter waits. Have your current license and your new address information ready before you call.

What happens after you change your address

Your new address is recorded in the Texas DPS system right away, regardless of which method you use. This means your address is updated for law enforcement, vehicle registration, and other state records that pull from the DPS database.

Your physical license card will continue to show your old address until you renew your license or order a replacement card. If you need the card to reflect your new address when ready — for example, if you are using it as proof of address for a bank or rental process — order a replacement card at the same time you change your address. The replacement card costs an additional fee and arrives by mail.

If you have a commercial driver license (CDL) or any restrictions on your license, some methods may not be available to you. Check the DPS website or call to confirm which option works for your situation.

Fees and what they cover

The fee for changing your address depends on your license type and how much time is left on your current license. A standard change-of-address fee is lower than a replacement card fee. If you want both your address changed in the system and a new card printed with the new address, you will pay both fees.

The DPS website lists the current fees for each transaction type. Fees can change, so check the website before you submit payment. If you are changing your address by mail or phone, you must pay by check, money order, or credit/debit card — the method depends on which option you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address on my license if I already changed it with my vehicle registration?

No, they are separate records. Changing your vehicle registration address does not change your driver license address, and vice versa. You must change each one separately if you want both records to show your new address.

What if my address proof document is older than 60 days?

DPS requires documents dated within the last 60 days. If your document is older, get a new one — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease will work. You cannot use an expired document even if it shows your correct address.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No, the online system requires a current, valid license. If your license is expired, you must renew it before you can change your address online. You can still change your address in person, by mail, or by phone even if your license is expired.

How long does it take to receive a replacement card with my new address?

A replacement card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after you order it. Delivery times can vary depending on mail volume and your location. Your new address is active in the system when ready, even if the card has not arrived yet.

What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?

You can change your address again using any of the same methods. If you have already ordered a replacement card with your first new address, it will still arrive with that address printed on it. You can then order another replacement card with your second new address, or straightforward use the card with the first address and know that your current address is recorded in the DPS system.