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 change through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer mail or in-person, both are available, though in-person is the only option if your address change involves a move outside Texas or if you need to update other information at the same time.

You do not need a new photo or to retake a test. The address change updates your record without issuing a replacement card — your current license remains valid. However, if your license is expiring within 60 days, DPS will require you to renew instead of straightforward changing the address.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you receive confirmation when ready.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
  • If your license expires within 60 days, you must renew your license instead of changing the address alone.
  • Mail and in-person changes are available if you cannot use the online method, though in-person is required if you are moving out of state.

Online address change through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and then prompt you to enter your new address.

After you submit the new address, you will receive a confirmation number on screen. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you contact DPS later. The address change is processed when ready, and your record is updated in the DPS system right away. Your physical license card does not change; the address on the card itself remains the old one until you renew your license for other reasons.

The online method works only if you are staying in Texas. If you are moving to another state, you must change your address in person at a DPS office or by mail.

In-person address change at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other official document showing your name and new address dated within the last 60 days.

Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number. If you do not have your Social Security card, a W-2, tax return, or bank statement with your number will work. The office staff will update your record on the spot, and you will receive a confirmation. Your license card itself will not be reprinted unless you are also renewing your license.

In-person is the required method if you are moving out of state, because the DPS system needs to verify that you are no longer a Texas resident for certain purposes. It is also the fastest way if you need to update other information at the same time, such as your name or emergency contact.

Mailing in an address change form

You can request a change of address form from the DPS website or by calling the DPS customer service line. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Include a copy of proof of your new address — the same documents accepted in person (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or similar).

Mail the completed form and proof of address to the Texas DPS address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. You will not receive a confirmation letter; instead, your address will be updated in the system, and you can verify the change by checking your record online or calling DPS.

The mail method is slower than online or in-person, but it works if you cannot visit an office or use the online system. Keep a copy of what you mail for your records.

What happens if your license is expiring soon

If your driver's license expires within 60 days of when you submit an address change, DPS will not process the address-only change. Instead, you will be required to renew your entire license, which includes updating your address as part of that renewal. This means you will need to pay the renewal fee, provide new documents, and may need to take a new photo.

If you are close to your expiration date, it is often simpler to renew your license and update the address at the same time rather than changing the address first and then renewing a few weeks later. Check your license to see the expiration date before you start the address change process.

Address changes for out-of-state moves

If you are moving out of Texas, you cannot use the online address change method. You must either visit a DPS office in person or mail in a change of address form. When you do, inform DPS that you are relocating out of state. This updates your record to reflect that you are no longer a Texas resident.

You do not have to surrender your Texas license when you move. However, most states require you to obtain a driver's license in your new state within a certain period — usually 30 to 60 days. Check the requirements for your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Your Texas license will remain valid for identification purposes until it expires, even after you move.

Updating your address in the DPS system versus on your physical card

An important distinction: changing your address updates your record in the DPS computer system, but it does not print a new card. Your physical license will still show your old address until you renew your license for other reasons — such as expiration, name change, or a new photo requirement.

This is normal and does not cause problems. Police officers and other officials can see your current address in the system when they scan your license. Banks, employers, and other organizations that need your address can ask you to provide it verbally or in writing. If you need a card that physically shows your new address, you can request a replacement card from DPS, though this typically costs a fee and is not necessary for most purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for an address change to show up in the DPS system?

Online changes are when ready — your address is updated as soon as you submit the form. In-person changes are also when ready. Mail changes take two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. If you need proof of the change quickly, the online or in-person method is faster.

Can I change my address online if I am moving out of state?

No. The online method is for address changes within Texas only. If you are moving out of state, you must visit a DPS office in person or mail in a change of address form and note that you are relocating.

Do I need to bring anything if I change my address online?

No. The online change requires only your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth — all information you can enter from home. You do not need to visit an office or mail anything.

What counts as proof of address for an in-person or mail change?

Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your new address. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 60 days.

Will I get a new license card with my new address printed on it?

No. An address change updates your record in the DPS system but does not issue a new card. Your physical license will continue to show your old address until you renew your license for another reason. You can request a replacement card if you want one printed with the new address, though this usually involves a fee.