The form you need is DL-43

To change your address on a Texas driver's license, you file Form DL-43, the process for Texas Driver's License or Identification Card. This is the same form you would use to renew your license or make other updates to your record. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) does not have a separate form just for address changes.

You can submit DL-43 in person at any DPS driver's license office, by mail, or online through the Texas DPS website if you meet certain conditions. The method you choose affects how long the process takes and what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • Form DL-43 is the official document for all driver's license updates, including address changes, and is available on the Texas DPS website or at any license office.
  • You can change your address online if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name, but in-person or mail submission works for any situation.
  • In-person submission at a DPS office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, while mail processing typically takes two to three weeks.
  • You will need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your new address, so you should not move again when ready after submitting the form.

What documents you need to bring or send

The documents required depend on whether you are submitting in person or by mail, and whether your license is current. For any method, you will need proof of your new address. Texas DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, or government mail (such as a tax notice) dated within 60 days of your submission. A post office change-of-address confirmation does not count as proof of residence.

You will also need your current driver's license or identification card. If you are submitting by mail, include a photocopy of the front and back. If you are submitting in person, bring the original. You do not need to bring additional identity documents for an address-only change, but if your license has expired or you are changing your name at the same time, the document requirements expand.

Submitting in person at a DPS office

Walk into any Texas DPS driver's license office with your completed Form DL-43, your current license, and proof of your new address. You can find the office nearest you on the Texas DPS website by entering your zip code. Most offices accept walk-ins, though some operate by appointment only, so check before you go.

Bring the original documents, not copies. The DPS staff will verify your information, take a new photo if required, and process your address change on the spot. You will pay a fee — currently $16 for a standard renewal or update — though the exact amount can vary. Your new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Submitting by mail

Complete Form DL-43 and mail it to the Texas DPS address listed on the form itself, along with a photocopy of both sides of your current license and proof of your new address. Include a check or money order for the current fee (payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety"). Do not send cash.

Mail processing takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided on the form. Because of the mail delay, do not use this method if you need your license updated quickly or if you are moving again soon.

Changing your address online

Texas DPS offers online address changes through its website if all of these conditions are true: your license is not expired, you have not changed your name, you have not had a license suspension or denial, and you are not a commercial driver's license (CDL) holder. The online process is faster — you can complete it in minutes and your new license ships within 7 to 10 business days.

To use the online system, you will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also upload a photo of proof of your new address. The fee is the same as in-person or mail submission. If you do not meet all the conditions, you must use the in-person or mail method instead.

What happens after you submit

Once DPS processes your form, they will mail your new license to the address you provided. During the processing period — typically 7 to 10 business days for in-person submission, or two to three weeks for mail — your old license remains valid. You can use it for identification until your new one arrives.

If you do not receive your new license within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS by phone or visit a local office with your receipt or confirmation number. If you move again before your new license arrives, do not submit another form; wait for the license to arrive at your first new address, then submit a second address change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address without renewing my license?

Yes. Form DL-43 updates your address without renewing your license if your license is still valid. You pay the update fee, not a renewal fee, and your license expiration date does not change. However, the form itself is the same one used for renewals, so the DPS system treats it as a renewal transaction.

What if I move before my new license arrives?

Wait for the license to arrive at your first new address. Once it arrives, you can submit another address change form if you have moved again. Submitting multiple forms at once can cause processing delays or confusion in the DPS system.

Do I need an appointment at a DPS office?

Most Texas DPS offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Check the office location on the Texas DPS website before you go. If an appointment is required, you can book one online or by phone through the same website.

What counts as proof of my new address?

A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days of submission all count. The document must show your name and new address. A post office change-of-address form does not count, and neither does mail addressed to "Resident" or "Current Occupant."