Change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
You can update your address on a Texas driver license through three routes: the online system (fastest), mail (takes longer), or walking into a DPS office in person. Texas does not require you to get a new license when you move — you only need to notify the Department of Public Safety of your new address. The address change itself is free, though if you want a new physical card with the updated address printed on it, you will pay a replacement fee.
Which route you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want a new card. The online method takes minutes and costs nothing. Mail takes one to two weeks. In-person visits are when ready but require a trip to an office during business hours.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online through the Texas DPS website without paying anything or visiting an office.
- Online changes update your record when ready but do not print a new physical license card — your old card remains valid with the new address on file.
- If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you will pay a fee (currently $16 for a standard license) and must explore in person or by mail.
- You need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
- Mail-in changes require a completed form and proof of residency and take one to two weeks to process.
Change your address online (no fee, when ready update)
The online method is the fastest and costs nothing. Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under the driver license section. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using these details.
Once you submit the change online, your address updates in the DPS system when ready. Your old physical license card remains valid — you do not need a new one unless you want the new address printed on the card itself. Many people use this method because it takes five minutes and solves the when ready problem of having your correct address on file with the state.
If you later decide you want a replacement card with the new address printed on it, you can request one at that time and pay the replacement fee. But the address change itself is complete and active as soon as you submit it online.
Request a replacement card with your new address (in-person or mail)
If you want a new physical license card printed with your updated address, you must either visit a DPS office in person or mail in an process. The replacement fee is currently $16 for a standard five-year license (fees vary slightly for different license types). This is separate from the free address change — you are paying for a new card, not for the address update.
For an in-person replacement, bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and payment. The new card is usually ready the same day or within a few days, depending on the office. For mail, you will complete an process form, include copies of your documents and payment, and mail everything to the DPS address listed on their website. Processing takes one to two weeks.
Many people skip the replacement card step because their old license is still valid with the address change on file. You only need a new card if you prefer to have your current address printed on the physical card itself.
Mail in a change of address form
You can mail a change of address without getting a replacement card. read the form from the Texas DPS website (it is typically a one-page form), fill in your current license number, new address, and sign it. Include a copy of proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days showing your name and new address.
Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the DPS website. Do not send your physical license card unless you are also requesting a replacement. Processing takes one to two weeks. Once processed, your address is updated in the system, and you will receive confirmation by mail.
This method is useful if you prefer not to go online or visit an office, though it is slower than the online option. The address change itself is free — you only pay if you also request a replacement card.
Visit a DPS office in person
You can walk into any Texas DPS Driver License office and update your address on the spot. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days). The staff will update your record when ready, and you will receive a confirmation.
If you want a replacement card with the new address printed on it, tell the staff when you arrive. You will pay the replacement fee ($16 for a standard license), provide the same documents, and the new card will be printed there or mailed to you depending on the office's process. Some offices print cards on-site; others mail them within a few days.
In-person visits are useful if you are already in the area or prefer to handle it face-to-face. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the DPS website for your nearest office and its hours before you go.
What counts as proof of residency
Texas accepts several documents as proof of your new address. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 90 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a government check or benefit statement, or a property tax bill.
If you do not have any of these, you can use a notarized affidavit of residency, which you can obtain from a notary public. Some DPS offices also accept an affidavit signed by a property owner or manager confirming you live at the address. Call your local DPS office to ask what they accept if your situation is unusual.
Timeline and what to expect
Online changes are when ready — your address updates in the system as soon as you submit. In-person visits are when ready for the address update, though a replacement card may take a few days to a week depending on the office. Mail takes one to two weeks from the time the DPS receives your form.
After you change your address, you do not need to do anything else. Your license remains valid at your old address until it expires. If you move again before your license expires, you can change the address again using any of these same methods. There is no limit to how many times you can update your address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my license when I move?
Texas law requires you to notify the DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time. While there is no specific important date stated in the law, it is best to update it soon after you move. An outdated address can cause problems with traffic stops, vehicle registration, and official correspondence.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You can update the address on an expired license, but you cannot renew it online. You will need to visit a DPS office or mail in a renewal process along with the address change. Bring your expired license and proof of residency.
What if I moved out of state?
If you moved to another state, you should obtain a driver license from that state. You can still update your Texas address on file if you need to, but you will eventually need to switch to your new state's license. Contact the DPS office in your new state for their requirements.
Will my old license card still work after I change my address?
Yes. Your old license card remains valid for driving and identification purposes even after you change your address. The address on file with the DPS will be updated, but the physical card does not change unless you request a replacement.
How much does a replacement card cost?
A replacement card costs $16 for a standard five-year license. Commercial licenses and other types have different fees. You only pay this if you want a new card printed with your new address — the address change itself is free.