How to Change Your Driver's License Address in Texas

Change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

You can update your Texas driver's license address without renewing your license or paying a fee. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you change your address through their online system, by mail, or by visiting a driver's license office in person. The fastest route is online if you have your current license number and a valid email address — the change takes effect when ready once you submit it.

You do not need to take a new photo, pass a test, or get a new physical card unless your license is expiring soon or you want to update your photo. The address change applies to your driving record right away, even though your plastic card still shows the old address until you renew it.

Key Takeaways

The online address change through the Texas DPS website is the fastest method and takes effect the same day you submit it.
By mail, you send a completed form DL-43 with proof of your new address and your current license; processing takes one to two weeks.
In person at a DPS office, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity; the change is recorded when ready.
Your physical license card keeps the old address until you renew it, but your driving record updates right away.
You do not pay a fee to change your address, and you do not need to renew your license to make the change.

Change your address online through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address, confirm it is correct, and submit. The system will send a confirmation email to the address you provide.

This method works only if your license is valid and not suspended or revoked. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the online system and must either mail in a form or visit an office in person. The online change takes effect when ready — your driving record updates the same day.

Mail a completed form DL-43 with proof of your new address

read or request form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card) from the Texas DPS website. You do not need to fill out the entire form — only the section for address change. Include a copy of your current driver's license (front and back) and one document that shows your new address.

Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and new address dated within the last 60 days. Mail the form and documents to the address listed on the DPS website for your region. Processing takes one to two weeks. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail once the change is recorded.

Update your address in person at a DPS driver's license office

Visit any Texas DPS driver's license office with your current license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity. Proof of identity can be your current license itself, a passport, a military ID, or a state ID card. Bring the same address documents accepted by mail: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent government mail showing your new address.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Many offices are busier in the morning and on Fridays. You can check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go. The address change is recorded when ready, and you will receive a receipt confirming the update.

What happens to your physical license card

Your plastic driver's license card will still show your old address until you renew it. You do not need to get a new card just to update your address. When your license comes up for renewal — typically every eight years for adults — you can request a new card with your current address at that time, or you can update your address again online or by mail before renewal.

Law enforcement and other agencies can see your current address in the system, even though your card shows the old one. If you want a new card with the updated address before your renewal date, you can renew early by paying the renewal fee and visiting a DPS office or using the online renewal system.

Update your address if your license is expired or suspended

If your license expired less than two years ago, you can still use the online system to change your address. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew your license to change the address — you cannot update the address alone. Visit a DPS office with your expired license, proof of your new address, proof of identity, and proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease).

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot change your address until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DPS to find out the reason for the suspension and what steps are needed to clear it. Once it is cleared, you can update your address using any of the three methods above.

Proof of address documents the DPS accepts

The Texas DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, bank or credit card statements, insurance policies, and government mail from federal, state, or local agencies. A cell phone bill typically does not work unless it is from a provider that also offers home internet service.

If you do not have any of these documents in your name, you can use a notarized letter from your landlord or property manager stating your new address, or a notarized affidavit of residency. Some DPS offices accept these alternatives, but it is worth calling ahead to confirm what your local office will take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address before I move, or can I do it after?

You can change your address before or after you move. However, Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time. It is safer to update it within a few weeks of moving to avoid any issues if you are pulled over or need to provide your address to law enforcement.

Will I get a new license card with the new address, or do I keep the old one?

You keep your current card. The address on your plastic license does not change until you renew it. Your driving record in the system updates right away, so law enforcement and other agencies see your new address even though your card shows the old one.

What if I moved out of state — can I still change my Texas address?

No. If you have moved out of Texas, you should get a driver's license in your new state instead of updating your Texas address. You can surrender your Texas license to DPS or straightforward let it expire. If you moved back to Texas, you can update your address using any of the three methods above.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change takes effect when ready once you submit it. You will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. Your driving record updates the same day, so if you are pulled over, the officer will see your new address in the system.

Is there a fee to change my address?

No. Changing your address is free whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you choose to renew your license early or get a new card before your renewal date.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.