How to change your address on a Texas driver license
You can change your address on your Texas driver license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) without renewing the entire license. The fastest way is online through the DPS website if you have a valid email address and a driver license number. If you cannot use the online method, you can visit a DPS office in person or mail in a form. Most address changes take effect when ready online or within a few days by mail.
Texas does not require you to get a new license photo or pay a fee when you change your address only. You do not need to pass a driving test or vision exam. The address change is recorded in the state system and will appear on your next renewal, or you can request a replacement card with the new address printed on it.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the DPS website is the fastest option and takes a few minutes if you have your driver license number and a valid email address.
- You can change your address in person at any DPS office during business hours without an appointment at most locations.
- Mailing a completed form to DPS takes one to two weeks but requires no office visit.
- Address changes are free and do not require a new photo, test, or exam.
- You can request a replacement card with your new address printed on it for a small fee if you want it sooner than your renewal date.
Change your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under driver license services. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your email address. After you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation email.
The online system processes your change when ready, and your address is updated in the state database right away. You do not receive a new physical card in the mail unless you request one. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you can order it through the same system for a fee (typically around $11, though this varies). The replacement card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
Change your address in person at a DPS office
Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Most offices do not require an appointment for address changes. Bring your current driver license and proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address dated within the last 60 days.
Walk in during business hours, take a number, and tell the clerk you need an address change. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. The clerk will update your information in the system, and your address change takes effect when ready. You will not receive a new card unless you request one and pay the replacement fee.
Change your address by mail
read the "Change of Address" form from the Texas DPS website or request one by calling the DPS customer service line. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or government mail dated within 60 days). Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the DPS website.
Processing by mail takes one to two weeks from the date DPS receives your form. Your address will be updated in the state system, but you will not receive a new physical card unless you request one. If you need the replacement card sooner, you can visit an office in person instead.
What counts as proof of your new address
Texas DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill also works. Government mail such as a tax return, voter registration card, or vehicle registration counts as well.
The document must be an original or certified copy — a photograph or photocopy is not accepted in person, though some offices may accept copies by mail. If you do not have any of these documents, call your local DPS office to ask what alternatives they will accept. Some offices may accept a notarized statement of residence or a letter from a landlord on official letterhead.
Requesting a replacement card with your new address
If you want a new physical card printed with your updated address before your license renewal date, you can request a replacement card when you change your address. The replacement fee is typically around $11, though the exact amount may vary. You can request the replacement online, in person at a DPS office, or by mail with your form.
A replacement card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. Your address is updated in the state system when ready, so you do not have to wait for the card to arrive to use your new address for official purposes. The replacement card has the same expiration date as your original license.
Timeline and what to expect
An online address change takes effect within minutes. An in-person change at a DPS office takes effect when ready after the clerk processes it. A mailed form takes one to two weeks from the date DPS receives it. If you request a replacement card, add another one to two weeks for mail delivery.
Your address is updated in the state system regardless of whether you receive a new physical card. Police officers, government agencies, and businesses can see your updated address when they scan your license. If you do not request a replacement card, your old card will still work for identification purposes, but the printed address will be outdated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my address if I move to a different Texas city?
Yes. Texas law requires you to notify DPS of any address change within a certain timeframe. While there is no specific important date stated in statute, it is best to update your address as soon as you move to avoid issues with mail delivery, vehicle registration, or law enforcement records.
What if I moved out of state — do I still need to change my Texas address?
If you no longer live in Texas, you should get a driver license from your new state instead of changing your address on your Texas license. You can surrender your Texas license to a DPS office or keep it as a form of identification, but you will need a license from your current state to drive legally.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. You can change your address on an expired license through the online system, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. However, you cannot drive legally with an expired license, so you may want to renew it at the same time. Renewing and changing your address together takes longer than an address change alone.
Will changing my address affect my vehicle registration?
No. Your driver license address and vehicle registration address are separate records. If you move, you must update both your driver license and your vehicle registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. You can update your vehicle registration online, by mail, or in person at a county tax assessor-collector office.
How long does a replacement card take if I request one?
A replacement card with your new address printed on it arrives by mail within one to two weeks. Your address is updated in the state system when ready, so you do not have to wait for the card to use your new address for official purposes.