The fastest way to change your address on a Texas driver license
You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver license office, as long as your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $11. If your license has expired, your name has changed, or you need to update other information at the same time, you will need to visit a DPS office in person.
Texas sends your renewed license to your new address automatically once the change is processed. You do not need to bring anything physical to prove your address — the system verifies your identity using information already on file.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online at the Texas DPS website if your license is current and your name has not changed.
- The online process costs $11 and takes about 10 minutes; no office visit is required.
- If your license is expired or your name has changed, you must visit a DPS office in person with proof of your new address.
- Texas mails your updated license to your new address within 7 to 10 business days after the change is processed.
- You can use a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail as proof of your new address at an office visit.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Change Address Online" from the driver license services menu. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to confirm your current address, then enter your new address.
After you submit the new address, you will be asked to pay the $11 fee using a credit or debit card. Once payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to do anything else — your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.
When you must visit a DPS office instead
If your driver license has expired, you cannot use the online process. You will need to renew your license at the same time you change your address, which requires an in-person visit. The same applies if your name has changed since your license was issued — the system cannot process a name change online.
You should also visit an office if you need to update your address and change other information at once, such as your class of license or medical restrictions. Bundling these changes into one office visit is faster than doing them separately online and in person.
What to bring to a DPS office for an address change
Bring your current driver license and one document that shows your new address. The DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your full name and new address.
If you are renewing your license at the same time, you will also need to bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). The DPS website lists all accepted documents in detail — check before you go so you do not make a wasted trip.
How long the process takes at an office
Wait times at DPS offices vary widely depending on location and time of day. Offices in rural areas typically have shorter waits than those in cities. Early morning visits (right when the office opens) and weekday visits are usually faster than afternoons or weekends.
Once you are seen by a clerk, the address change itself takes only a few minutes. If you are also renewing your license, the full visit may take 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days, just as with the online process.
What happens if you move before your new license arrives
If you move again before your updated license reaches your first new address, contact the DPS to update your address a second time. You can do this online if your license is still current, or by visiting an office. The DPS will then mail your license to your most recent address.
Do not ignore mail from the DPS sent to an old address — it may contain your new license or important notices. If you think your license was mailed to an address you no longer use, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to confirm the mailing address on file and request a replacement if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No, you cannot use the online process. You will need to renew your license and change your address at the same time by visiting a DPS office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your new address.
Do I need to bring anything to prove my new address when I change it online?
No. The online process does not require any documents. The DPS verifies your identity using information already in their system. You straightforward enter your new address and pay the $11 fee.
What if the DPS office is closed or has a very long wait?
If your license is current and your name has not changed, use the online process instead — it takes 10 minutes and avoids the office entirely. If you must visit an office, check the DPS website for office hours and locations near you, and try visiting early in the morning on a weekday.
Will my old license still work while I wait for the new one?
Yes. Your current license remains valid until your new license arrives. You can use it for identification and driving during the 7 to 10 business days it takes for the updated license to be mailed to you.
What if I never receive my new license?
Contact the DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to confirm they have your correct mailing address on file. If the license was lost in the mail, the DPS can issue a replacement. You may be charged a replacement fee depending on the reason for the reissue.