You can change your address on a Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office — the fastest route is online if you have a valid email and current license
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without renewing your license or paying a fee. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a new card in the mail.
Online changes take effect when ready in the DPS system but do not produce a new physical card — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it. In-person and mail changes also do not automatically trigger a new card unless you request one and pay the renewal fee. If you need a card with your new address printed on it, you must renew your license, which costs $16 for a four-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the DPS website is the fastest way to update your address in the system, and it costs nothing.
- Your physical license card will still show your old address after an online change unless you pay to renew it.
- You can change your address by mail by sending a signed letter with your name, license number, and new address to the DPS address on file.
- In-person changes at a DPS office take a few minutes and require your current license and proof of your new address.
- A new address card is only issued if you renew your license, which is a separate transaction with its own fee.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS online services portal at dps.texas.gov and select the option to update your address. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will send a verification link to your email — click it to confirm the change.
The update takes effect when ready in the DPS database, which means law enforcement, courts, and other agencies can see your new address right away. However, the physical card in your wallet will still print your old address. This is legal and acceptable for identification purposes — the address on file with DPS is what matters for official records.
If you do not have internet access or prefer not to use the online system, you have two other options that do not require a trip to an office.
Changing your address by mail
Write a letter on plain paper that includes your full name, current driver's license number, old address, and new address. Sign the letter and mail it to the address listed on the back of your license or on the DPS website. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.
Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. You will not receive a confirmation letter, but you can verify the change was recorded by logging into your DPS online account or calling the DPS customer service line at 1-888-589-6556. Like the online method, a mail change updates your address in the system but does not produce a new card.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any DPS driver's license office in Texas with your current license and one document proving your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original or a certified copy — a photo of the document is not sufficient.
The transaction takes about 10 to 15 minutes. The staff member will update your address in the system on the spot, and you will receive a receipt showing the change. Your physical license still shows the old address unless you pay to renew it at the same time.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in large cities often have longer lines during lunch hours and late afternoon. You can check current wait times for your nearest office on the DPS website before you go.
Getting a new card with your updated address
If you want a physical license card that prints your new address, you must renew your license. A standard renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You can renew online, by mail, or in person — the process is the same whether you are renewing early or on schedule.
Online renewal is the fastest option and takes about two weeks for the new card to arrive by mail. In-person renewal at a DPS office produces a temporary paper license when ready and a plastic card within two weeks. Mail renewal takes longer and requires you to submit your current license with the process.
You do not have to renew your license to change your address — the address change alone is free and takes effect when ready in the system. A new card is only necessary if you need the new address printed on the physical card for personal reasons or for a specific transaction.
What counts as proof of your new address
DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and bank or credit card statements all may have access to. Government mail such as tax documents or voter registration cards also works.
Documents must be originals or certified copies. Photos, screenshots, and digital images are not accepted in person, though the online system may accept digital uploads depending on the document type. If you are changing your address by mail, send a copy of the proof document along with your letter.
If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at your new address, you may be able to use a lease agreement or a letter from your landlord on letterhead. Call your local DPS office to ask what alternatives they will accept in your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You can update your address in the DPS system even if your license is expired, but you cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years. If your license is expired and you want a new card with your updated address, you will need to renew in person at a DPS office or by mail.
How long does it take for an address change to show up in the system?
Online changes take effect when ready. Mail and in-person changes are recorded within one business day. You can verify the update by checking your DPS online account or calling customer service at 1-888-589-6556.
Do I need to change my address if I moved out of state?
If you have moved out of Texas, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state. You do not need to formally cancel your Texas license, but you should not use it as your primary ID once you have a valid license from your new state of residence.
What if I do not have proof of my new address yet?
Call your local DPS office and explain your situation. Some offices will accept alternative documents such as a signed lease, a letter from your landlord, or a utility bill process confirmation. Requirements vary by location, so ask what your specific office will accept.
Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver's license?
The online address change system works for standard driver's licenses and ID cards. Commercial driver's license holders must change their address in person at a DPS office or by mail, as CDL records have additional requirements.