The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address on your Texas driver license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a driver license office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. After you submit the change online, your updated license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to the DPS address listed on their website, though this takes longer. In-person visits at a driver license office are also an option if you want your new license when ready, but you will need to bring documents that prove your new address — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement typically works.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with your new license arriving in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
  • If you change your address in person at a driver license office, bring a document that proves you live at the new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Mailing in a form is the slowest option and can take several weeks, but it requires no office visit.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change Address" option under driver license services. You will be asked to enter your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your information and ask you to confirm the change. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation email.

Your new license will be mailed to the address you entered. You do not need to pay a fee for this change. The old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue using it for identification during those 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive your new license within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status.

Changing your address by mail

read the address change form from the Texas DPS website or request one by calling the DPS customer service line. Fill out the form with your current driver license number, your new address, and sign it. Mail the form to the address listed on the DPS website — this address changes depending on which region you live in, so check the website to find the correct mailing address for your area.

Processing by mail typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. Your new license will be mailed to your new address once the form is processed. Like the online method, there is no fee. Keep a copy of what you mail in case you need to follow up.

Changing your address in person at a driver license office

Visit any driver license office in Texas with your current driver license and a document that proves your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at the new address. The document must show your name and the new address clearly.

Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it. There is no fee to change your address. You will receive your new license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's workload. Check the DPS website for office hours and locations near you, as some offices have limited hours or require you to take a number before arriving.

What happens if you move and do not update your address

Your driver license remains valid even if the address on it is outdated. However, if you are pulled over by police, the officer will see the old address on your license. This can create confusion and may slow down the traffic stop. More importantly, if you receive a ticket or citation, the court may have difficulty reaching you if your address is wrong.

For vehicle registration, you are required by Texas law to update your address with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 30 days of moving. This is separate from your driver license change. Failing to update your vehicle registration address can result in a fine. If you receive mail from the DMV or a court at your old address, it may take time to reach you.

Updating your address for vehicle registration at the same time

While changing your driver license address and vehicle registration address are separate processes, you can do both during one visit to a driver license office. Bring your current driver license, vehicle registration, and proof of your new address. The office staff can help you update both at once.

You can also renew your vehicle registration online through the Texas DMV website if you are only changing the address and not renewing the registration itself. The process is similar to the driver license change — you enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration number, then submit the new address. There is no fee for an address change on registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my old license when I change my address online?

No. The online process only requires your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. You do not need to bring or mail in your old license.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to update my Texas license?

If you have moved out of Texas permanently, you should get a driver license from your new state instead of updating your Texas address. However, if you are temporarily out of state and plan to return to Texas, you can update your address online or by mail to your current location.

How long is my old license valid after I change my address?

Your old license remains valid for identification purposes until your new license arrives. Once you receive the new license, the old one is no longer valid and you should not use it. If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS — your old license may remain valid longer while they investigate.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

You can change your address on an expired license, but you will need to renew the license at the same time if you do it in person. Online and mail-in address changes work on expired licenses without requiring a full renewal. Check the DPS website for the current renewal fee if you choose to renew in person.

What if the address change does not go through online?

If the online system rejects your information, try the mail-in or in-person method instead. Common reasons for rejection include a mismatch between the name and Social Security number in the system, or an incorrect driver license number. If you are unsure what went wrong, call the DPS customer service line for help troubleshooting.