You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Texas DPS office
The fastest way to update your address on a Texas driver's license is through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the website, you can mail in a form or visit a DPS office in person. Texas does not require you to get a new license card when you change your address — the update happens in the state system, and your current card remains valid.
The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you have access to the documents required. All three routes work; the online option is straightforward the quickest for most people.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website takes about 10 minutes and requires your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.
- You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee to change your address — your current license card stays valid with the old address printed on it.
- If you mail in the change, you will need to complete Form DL-43 and include a proof of residency document, and processing takes two to three weeks.
- Visiting a DPS office in person requires your current license and proof of your new address, and the change is recorded when ready.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and new address.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify this information against your record and then ask you to enter your new address.
Once you submit the change online, it is recorded in the Texas system when ready. You will receive a confirmation number on screen — save or print this for your records. Your physical license card will still show your old address, but the state's record of your address is updated right away, which is what matters for voting, vehicle registration, and other official purposes.
Mailing in an address change with Form DL-43
If you prefer to mail in your change, read or request Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form.
Attach one document that shows your name and new address — this is called proof of residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy. Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the Texas DPS address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. You do not need to include your license card or pay a fee.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any Texas DPS office with your current driver's license and one proof of residency document. The staff member will update your address in the system while you wait. The change is recorded when ready, though your physical card will still show the old address.
DPS offices are located in most Texas cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Bringing your proof of residency document with you speeds up the process.
What counts as proof of residency
Proof of residency must show your name and your new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:
- A utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
- A lease or rental agreement
- A mortgage statement or property tax bill
- A bank or credit card statement
- An insurance policy (auto, home, or renters)
- A government check or benefit statement
If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, contact the Texas DPS to ask about alternatives. Some offices will accept a notarized letter from your landlord or a utility company letter confirming your move.
What happens to your physical license card
Your driver's license card will continue to show your old address after you change it in the system. You do not need to request a new card, and Texas does not charge you to update your address. The state's internal record is what matters for official purposes — police, voting officials, and government agencies all look up your current address in the system, not at the card itself.
If you want a new card with your current address printed on it, you can request one, but this is optional and costs the same as renewing your license. Most people straightforward keep their current card.
Timeline and what to expect
Online changes are recorded when ready. Mailed forms take two to three weeks to process. In-person visits at a DPS office are recorded on the spot. If you are moving soon or need your address updated quickly, the online option or an in-person visit will get the job done the fastest.
After you change your address with the DPS, you should also update your address with your vehicle registration, voter registration, and any other agencies or organizations that have your information on file. These are separate from your driver's license and do not update automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my physical license card to change my address online?
No. The online process only requires your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You do not need to have the card in front of you, though having it nearby makes it easier to find your license number.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license can still be used to change your address. However, if your license is expired and you need to renew it anyway, you may want to do both at the same time by visiting a DPS office or renewing online, which can be more efficient than making two separate changes.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Texas license?
You can update your address to an out-of-state address through the same methods — online, by mail, or in person if you are visiting Texas. However, if you have moved permanently to another state, that state may require you to get a license there instead of keeping your Texas license.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address with the DPS does not affect your driving record or insurance rates. Your insurance company has your address on file separately, so you should notify them directly of your move. Your driving record stays the same regardless of where you live.
How long does my proof of residency document need to be recent?
Your proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days. If you have just moved and do not yet have a recent document in your name at the new address, contact your local DPS office to discuss options before you submit your change.