You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

Texas lets you update your driver's license address without renewing the entire license. The fastest route is the online system if your license is current and you have a valid email on file. If you cannot use the online option, you can mail a form to the Department of Public Safety or walk into a local DPS office with proof of your new address.

The address change itself is free. You will not receive a new physical card in the mail — your current license remains valid, and the DPS records your new address in their system. When you renew your license later, the new address will print on the replacement card.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at texas.gov/dps takes about 10 minutes and is the fastest option if your license is not expired.
  • You need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Mailing in a form (DL-43) takes one to two weeks, while visiting a DPS office in person is usually the quickest if you have time that day.
  • Your physical license card does not change — only the address in the DPS database updates until you renew.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to texas.gov/dps and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" and log in with your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will need to confirm your current address as it appears on your license, then enter your new address.

The system will ask you to verify an email address on file. If the email shown is not yours or is outdated, you cannot proceed online — you will need to use the mail or in-person option instead. Once you confirm the email, the DPS sends a verification link. Click the link within 24 hours to complete the change.

This method works only if your license is not expired and you have a valid email registered with the DPS. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew it instead of straightforward changing the address.

Mailing a form to update your address

read or request the DL-43 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card) from the DPS website or any DPS office. You do not need to fill out the entire form — only complete the sections for your name, driver's license number, and new address. Include a copy of proof of your new address.

Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the DPS website (this varies by region). Include a note that you are requesting an address change only, not a renewal. The DPS typically processes mail requests within one to two weeks, though delays can occur during high-volume periods.

Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, contact your local DPS office to confirm receipt.

Updating your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS Driver License office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photograph of a utility bill or lease is not sufficient. The office staff will verify your information, update the address in the system, and you will walk out with your address changed the same day.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Early mornings on weekdays tend to be shorter than afternoons or weekends. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online check-in system — check the DPS website for your specific office before you go.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement. A government-issued ID with your new address also works.

A piece of mail addressed to you at the new address does not count as official proof. If you just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address, or bring a signed lease with your name and the address clearly shown.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

Online changes take effect when ready once you click the verification link in your email. Mail and in-person changes are recorded the same day or within one business day. You can verify the change by logging back into the online system or calling your local DPS office.

Your physical license card does not change. The address printed on it remains the old address until you renew your license. However, the DPS database shows your new address, and that is what law enforcement and other agencies see when they scan your license. When you renew your license — whether in person or by mail — the new card will print with your current address on file.

If you cannot find your proof of address

If you moved recently and do not have a utility bill or lease yet, contact your utility company and ask them to send a letter on company letterhead to your new address confirming service. This can take a few days. Alternatively, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead stating your name, the property address, and your move-in date.

If you are staying with family or in temporary housing and do not have a lease, some DPS offices will accept an affidavit signed by the property owner or resident stating that you live there. Call your local DPS office before you visit to confirm they accept this form of proof, as policies can vary slightly by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I moved out of state?

If you no longer live in Texas, you should update your address or transfer your license to your new state. Keeping a Texas address on file when you live elsewhere can cause problems with insurance, vehicle registration, and law enforcement. Contact the DPS or your new state's licensing agency for the next steps.

What if my license is expired?

You cannot change the address online if your license expired more than two years ago. You must renew your license instead, which includes updating your address. If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can still change the address online or by mail, then renew later when you are ready.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may ask for your new address when you contact them, but the address change with the DPS does not automatically notify your insurer. Contact your insurance agent separately to update your policy.

How long does it take to see the change if I do it online?

The online change takes effect as soon as you click the verification link in your email. You can log back into the DPS system within minutes to confirm the new address appears in your record. The change is live in the DPS database when ready.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. You must change your own address using your driver's license number and Social Security number (online), or you must appear in person at a DPS office with your ID and proof of address. The DPS does not allow third parties to request address changes on your behalf.