The fastest way to change your address in Texas

You can change your address on your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing if you do not need a replacement card. If you change your address online, your current license stays valid; the DPS straightforward updates their records. A new card with your new address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you do not have to wait for it to use your updated license.

If you need the new card when ready — for example, to use as proof of residency for a bank account or apartment — you can go to a DPS office in person and pay a replacement fee. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed.

Key Takeaways

  • Changing your address online through the Texas DPS website costs nothing and takes 10 minutes, though your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 days.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
  • If you need a replacement card when ready, visit a DPS office in person and pay the replacement fee to receive a temporary license on the spot.
  • Mailing in a change-of-address form is an option but takes longer than online or in-person methods.

Changing your address online through the 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 new mailing address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history. Once you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation email.

Your license number and driving privileges remain active when ready after you submit the change online. The DPS updates their system right away, so you can use your current license as proof of your new address even before the replacement card arrives. The new card is printed and mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for this method.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days and showing your new address. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo of the document on your phone is not accepted.

Tell the clerk you want to change your address. If you only want the address updated in the system and do not need a new card, there is no fee and the process takes about 10 minutes. If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you will pay a replacement fee (the amount varies but is typically $16 to $20 for a standard license). You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days, and your plastic card will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Changing your address by mail

You can request a change-of-address form from the Texas DPS or read it from their website. Fill out the form with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 90 days). Mail the form and proof to the DPS address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes longer than online or in-person methods — typically 3 to 4 weeks after the DPS receives your form. There is no fee for a mail-in address change. Your current license remains valid during this time, and your new card will be mailed to your new address once processed.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DPS accepts documents dated within the last 90 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, bank or credit card statements, and insurance documents. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photograph or photocopy is not accepted at a DPS office, though photocopies are acceptable when mailing in a change-of-address form.

If you do not yet have a document in your name at your new address, you may be able to use a lease signed by you and your landlord, even if it has not been officially recorded. Ask the DPS office what documents they will accept in your situation before you visit.

Timeline and what to expect after you change your address

If you change your address online or in person, your new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you change by mail, add an additional 3 to 4 weeks for the DPS to process your form before they mail the card. During this entire time, your current license is valid and can be used as proof of your updated address, even though it still shows your old address printed on it.

Once your new card arrives, destroy your old license or return it to a DPS office if you prefer. You do not have to do anything else — your driving record and vehicle registration are already tied to your new address in the DPS system.

Changing your address if you have a REAL ID license

If your Texas license is marked "REAL ID" (a small star or marking in the top right corner), changing your address does not affect that status. Your REAL ID license remains valid for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. When your replacement card arrives with your new address, it will also be marked REAL ID.

You do not need to renew your REAL ID status or provide new documents just because you moved. The address change is a straightforward update to your existing license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. The online system will not allow you to proceed if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and be prepared to address the suspension or revocation status with the clerk.

What if I move before my new card arrives?

Contact the DPS and provide your updated address. You can do this by phone, mail, or in person at a DPS office. The DPS will redirect your card to your new address. If you have already received mail at your first new address, you can also file a change-of-address form with the U.S. Postal Service to forward it to your current home.

Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?

Texas law requires you to notify the DPS of a change of address within a reasonable time after moving. While there is no specific important date stated in statute, it is best to update your address within 30 days to avoid complications with vehicle registration, insurance, or law enforcement contact.

Is there a fee to change my address online?

No. Changing your address online through the DPS website is free. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement card at the same time, either online or in person.

Can I change my address at a county tax assessor's office or vehicle registration office?

No. You must change your driver's license address through the Texas DPS directly — either online, by mail, or at a DPS Driver License office. County offices handle vehicle registration and property taxes, not driver's licenses.