Texas charges no fee to change your address on your driver's license

The Texas Department of Public Safety does not charge a fee for a standard address change on your driver's license or ID card. Whether you change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office, there is no cost to update this information.

The only exception is if you need to replace your physical card itself — for example, if it is damaged or lost. A replacement card costs $16 for a driver's license or $11 for an ID card. But if you are only updating the address in the system without getting a new card printed, you pay nothing.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes on a Texas driver's license are free through all three methods: online, mail, or in person.
  • You only pay if you request a replacement card to be printed with your new address, which costs $16 for a driver's license or $11 for an ID card.
  • Online changes through the DPS website are the fastest route and require no visit to an office.
  • If you change your address without ordering a replacement card, your current card remains valid even though the address on it is outdated.

How to change your address for free online

The Texas DPS website allows you to update your address without paying anything or leaving your home. You will need your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The change takes effect when ready in the DPS system.

After you submit the change online, your physical card will still show your old address until it expires or you request a replacement. The address in the state's records is what matters for official purposes — police, courts, and government agencies can see the current address you registered. Your old card remains valid for identification and driving.

Changing your address by mail at no cost

You can mail a completed form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License or ID Card) along with proof of your new address to the DPS. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days and showing your name and new address.

Mail your form and documents to the address listed on the DPS website for your region. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. Like the online method, this updates your address in the system at no charge, but your physical card will not change unless you pay for a replacement.

In-person address changes at a DPS office

You can walk into any Texas DPS office and update your address in person. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and one document proving your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage, or bank statement from the last 90 days). The change is processed on the spot and costs nothing.

Office wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday typically means a shorter wait than afternoons or weekends. You can find your nearest office and current wait times on the DPS website.

When you might want to pay for a replacement card

If you want your physical card to show your new address, you will need to order a replacement. This costs $16 for a driver's license or $11 for an ID card. You can request a replacement card when you change your address online, by mail, or in person — just select that option and pay the fee.

A replacement card takes about two weeks to arrive by mail. You can continue using your old card for identification and driving during this time. Some people choose to pay for a replacement if they move frequently or if they prefer their ID to match their current address for personal reasons, but it is not required.

What happens if you do not update your address

Your driver's license remains valid even if the address on it is outdated. Texas law does not require you to update your address on your card, though many people do for convenience. Police and government agencies can see your current address in the DPS system regardless of what is printed on your card.

However, if you are stopped by police, the mismatch between your card and your actual residence may prompt questions. For vehicle registration, insurance, and voter registration, you should update your address separately with those agencies — changing your driver's license address does not automatically update those records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card printed when I change my address?

No. You can update your address in the DPS system for free without ordering a replacement card. Your old card stays valid for identification and driving. The replacement card is optional and costs $16 for a driver's license or $11 for an ID card if you want it.

How long does an address change take online?

An online address change takes effect when ready in the DPS system. You can see the update reflected in your DPS record right away. If you order a replacement card at the same time, the card itself arrives by mail in about two weeks.

What counts as proof of my new address?

The DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or bank statements. The document must show your name and new address and be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill in your name is usually the easiest option.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes. You can update your address even if your license is expired. However, if your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to renew it instead of just changing the address. Check the DPS website or call your local office to confirm what you need to do.

Will changing my address on my driver's license update my voter registration?

No. Your driver's license address and voter registration are separate records. You must update your voter registration separately through your county's voter registrar or through the Texas Secretary of State website. Changing one does not change the other.