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

Texas allows you to update your driver's license address without renewing your license or paying a fee. The fastest route is the online system at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and updates your record when ready. If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail a form to DPS or walk into any driver's license office in person.

Your new address becomes official once DPS processes your request. You do not need to carry a new physical card — your current license remains valid, and law enforcement can see your updated address in their system. However, if you want a card that shows your new address, you can request a replacement card for a small fee.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at the Texas DPS website is free and updates your record the same day, with no need to visit an office or mail anything.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
  • If you change your address in person or by mail, bring or include proof of residency such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days.
  • Your current license remains valid after an address change; you only need a replacement card if you want the new address printed on it.

Online address change through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity and process the change when ready. Your record updates the same day, and you will receive a confirmation email.

This method works only if your license is not expired and your identity information matches what DPS has on file. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to renew it instead of straightforward changing the address. The online system is available 24 hours a day and does not require an appointment.

In-person address change at a DPS driver's license office

You can walk into any Texas driver's license office and request an address change. Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations allow you to reserve a time slot online to avoid waiting. Check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see whether that location accepts walk-ins or requires a reservation. The address change is free and takes effect when ready.

Mailing a form to change your address

You can mail Form DL-43 (Change of Address) to the Texas DPS. The form is available on the DPS website as a PDF that you can print and fill out by hand. Include your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form — typically the DPS headquarters in Austin, though some regional offices also accept mail.

Processing by mail takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your form. Include a copy of a document showing your new address if this is your first time updating it with DPS, or if your address on file is more than a few years old. Without proof of residency, DPS may return the form and ask you to resubmit it.

What counts as proof of residency

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 bills, and bank or credit card statements all work. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo or screenshot usually does not count.

If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, you can use a notarized letter from your landlord or a family member confirming you live there, along with a lease or other proof that you have the right to live at that address. Some offices are flexible about this; calling ahead to ask what they will accept can save you a trip.

Getting a replacement card with your new address

Your current license remains valid after an address change, even though it shows your old address. If you want a physical card that displays your new address, you can request a replacement card. The fee is typically around $11 to $16, depending on whether you order it online or in person. The replacement card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

You do not have to get a replacement card unless you want one. Police and other officials can see your updated address in the DPS system when they scan your license, so the old address on the card itself does not affect your legal status or driving privileges. Many people skip the replacement card to save the fee and the wait time.

Timing and what to expect

Online changes take effect the same day. In-person changes at a DPS office take effect when ready. Mail-in changes take 7 to 10 business days from the date DPS receives your form. If you are moving soon and need your address updated quickly, the online or in-person route is faster.

After your address is updated, you should receive mail from DPS confirming the change. If you do not receive confirmation within two weeks of an online or in-person change, or three weeks of a mailed form, contact the DPS to confirm the change went through. You can call the DPS customer service line or visit a local office to verify.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address if I move to a different city in Texas?

Yes. Texas law requires you to update your address within a certain timeframe after moving. While there is no specific important date stated in the law, DPS recommends updating it as soon as possible. An outdated address can cause problems with traffic tickets, vehicle registration, and official mail.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew it instead of straightforward changing the address. If it expired less than two years ago, you can change the address online or in person. Check your license expiration date before you attempt an address change.

What if I move out of state but keep my Texas license?

You can update your address to an out-of-state address using the same methods — online, by mail, or in person. However, if you move permanently to another state, that state typically requires you to get a driver's license there within a set timeframe. Check the rules for your new state.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?

Changing your address with DPS does not affect your driving record or insurance rates. However, you should also notify your insurance company of your address change separately, as they maintain their own records. Some insurers may adjust your rate based on your new location, but that is a separate decision from your DPS address update.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. You must change your own address using your license number and Social Security number. DPS does not allow a family member or representative to change your address without your direct involvement. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized changes to your record.