You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Texas DPS office

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without renewing your license early. The fastest route is the online system at dps.texas.gov, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail a form to DPS or walk into a driver license office in person. The method you choose depends on whether you have a Real ID compliant license, how soon you need the change recorded, and whether you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it.

Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time after you move, though there is no specific important date. Updating your address promptly ensures your driving record and any documents DPS sends you reach the correct location. If you are stopped by law enforcement, an outdated address can cause confusion and delays.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change at dps.texas.gov is free and the fastest option if your license is Real ID compliant or you do not need a new card printed.
  • You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
  • If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you must go to a DPS office in person or mail in a form, and you will pay a replacement fee.
  • Address changes take effect when ready in the DPS system, but a mailed form can take two to four weeks to process.
  • A change of address does not extend your license expiration date — your license still expires on the date printed on the front.

Changing your address online through DPS

The online method works only if your current Texas driver license is Real ID compliant (marked with a gold star in the upper right corner). Go to dps.texas.gov, find the "Change of Address" option under driver license services, and select the online portal. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a valid email address. The system will verify your identity and, if successful, update your address in the DPS database within minutes.

This online change does not print a new card — your physical license will still show your old address. The new address appears in the DPS system and on any documents DPS issues going forward, such as a duplicate license or a driving record. If you need a card with your new address printed on it, you must request a replacement card at the same time or visit a DPS office later.

Requesting a replacement card with your new address

If you want a physical card that shows your updated address, you must either visit a DPS driver license office or mail in a form. The replacement card costs a fee that varies depending on your license type and how many years remain on your current license. Standard replacement fees typically range from $16 to $27, but you should check the current fee schedule at dps.texas.gov before you go.

At a DPS office, bring your current driver license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. The office will take a new photo, update your address, and issue a replacement card on the spot or within a few days. By mail, you will need to complete the appropriate form (DL-43 for a standard replacement), include a copy of your proof of address, and send it with payment to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks.

Proof of address documents DPS will accept

DPS requires one document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax statement, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a government document such as a voter registration card or tax return. A post office change of address form does not count as proof.

If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, you can use a notarized affidavit of residence signed by someone else who lives at that address, along with a copy of their proof of address. This option is slower and requires a notary, so it is worth waiting a few days for a utility bill or bank statement if possible. Keep the original affidavit for your records in case DPS requests it later.

What happens at a DPS driver license office

Walk-in service is available at most DPS offices, but wait times vary widely by location and time of day. You can check wait times for your nearest office on the DPS website before you go. Bring your current driver license, proof of your new address, and payment for the replacement card fee. You will not need to take a new written test or vision test unless your license is expiring soon or DPS flags an issue during processing.

The office will verify your identity, scan your proof of address, take a new photo, and process the replacement. You will receive your new card when ready in most cases, though some offices may mail it to you within a few days. Ask the staff which applies at your location before you leave so you know when to expect your card.

Changing your address by mail

Complete the form DL-43 (process for a Duplicate Driver License), which you can read from dps.texas.gov or request by mail. Include a copy of your proof of address, a copy of your current driver license (front and back), and a check or money order for the replacement fee. Mail everything to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash.

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. Your new card will be mailed to your new address once it is ready. If you need to change your address before a replacement card arrives, you can update it online in the meantime so the change is recorded in the DPS system when ready.

Address changes and your license expiration date

Changing your address does not extend your license expiration date. Your license still expires on the date printed on the front of your card, regardless of when you update your address. If your license is expiring within the next few months, you may want to renew it at the same time you change your address rather than paying for both a replacement card and a renewal. At a DPS office, staff can advise you on whether combining these transactions saves money.

If you change your address online only (without requesting a replacement card), your expiration date remains unchanged, and your physical card will show your old address until you renew or request a replacement. The address in the DPS system will be current even though your card is not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

You can update your address in the DPS system, but you cannot request a replacement card while your license is suspended or revoked. Once your suspension or revocation is lifted, you can request a replacement card with your current address at that time.

What if I do not have proof of my new address yet?

You can use a notarized affidavit of residence signed by someone else who lives at your address, along with a copy of their proof of address. This takes longer than submitting a utility bill or lease, so if possible, wait a few days for a document in your name to arrive.

Will my old license still work after I change my address online?

Yes. Your physical license remains valid and does not expire sooner. The address change takes effect in the DPS system, but your card will still show your old address until you request a replacement or renew your license.

How long does it take to receive a replacement card by mail?

Processing typically takes two to four weeks from the date DPS receives your mailed form. Your new card will be sent to your new address once it is ready. If you need your address updated faster, visiting a DPS office in person is the quickest option.

Do I need a new photo when I change my address?

If you change your address online only, no new photo is taken. If you request a replacement card in person or by mail, DPS will take a new photo as part of the replacement process.