The fastest way to update your address
You can change your address on your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver's license office. The online method takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address.
If you prefer to update in person, you can visit any Texas driver's license office with proof of your new address. Both methods update your license record when ready, though a replacement card with your new address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you choose the online route.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, with no office visit required.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to update online.
- A replacement card showing your new address arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after an online update.
- In-person updates at a driver's license office are also free and update your record when ready, though you must bring proof of your new address.
- Your old license remains valid for identification purposes until the replacement card arrives.
Updating your address online through the Texas DPS website
Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" from the menu. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify this information against your record.
Once verified, you will enter your new address and confirm it is correct. You will also provide a valid email address where the DPS can send confirmation. After you submit, you will receive an email confirmation that your address change has been processed. Your record updates when ready, but the physical replacement card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
You do not need to pay a fee for an address change online. Your old license remains valid for identification until the new card arrives.
Updating your address in person at a driver's license office
Visit any Texas driver's license office with proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Bring your current driver's license and the address proof to the office. There is no fee for an address change. A staff member will update your record on the spot, and you can ask whether a replacement card will be mailed or if you can receive it when ready. Most offices mail the card, which arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
What counts as proof of your new address
The Texas DPS accepts several documents as proof of address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A lease agreement or rental agreement showing your name and new address also works. A mortgage statement, property tax statement, or bank statement with your name and address will work as well.
The document must show your full name and the complete new address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on official letterhead, along with a copy of your lease, can sometimes substitute — but call your local driver's license office first to confirm they will accept it.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit
If you update online, your address change is recorded when ready in the DPS system. However, the physical replacement card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. During this time, your old license is still valid for identification.
If you update in person, your record updates when ready as well. The replacement card is usually mailed the same day, arriving within 7 to 10 business days. Some offices may offer to issue a temporary paper license on the spot, though this varies by location.
If your replacement card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Texas DPS to check the status. You can call the DPS customer service line or visit the website to track your card.
Updating your address if you have a commercial driver's license
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot update your address online. You must visit a driver's license office in person with proof of your new address. The process is the same as for a regular license — bring your current CDL and an address document dated within the last 60 days.
The fee for a CDL address change is the same as for a regular license: free. Your replacement card will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days. If your CDL is expiring soon, you may want to renew it at the same time rather than updating the address alone, since both require an office visit.
What to do if you moved out of state
If you have moved out of Texas, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state rather than updating your Texas address. Most states require you to get a new license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to surrender your Texas license when you explore for the new one.
If you are keeping your Texas license for identification purposes while living elsewhere temporarily, you can still update your address online or in person before you leave. However, if you plan to stay in another state permanently, switching to that state's license is the standard practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my address online if my license is expired?
No. You must renew your license before you can update your address online. If your license is expired, visit a driver's license office in person with your expired license, proof of your new address, and the documents required for renewal (such as proof of citizenship and Social Security number).
Do I need to update my address before I move, or can I do it after?
You can update your address either before or after you move. However, updating after you move is more practical because you will have proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease) ready to show. Texas law does not require you to update within a specific timeframe, but it is a good idea to do so within a few weeks of moving.
What if the replacement card arrives with errors in my address?
Contact the Texas DPS when ready if your replacement card shows an incorrect address. You can call customer service or visit a driver's license office to request a correction. The DPS will issue another replacement card at no charge if the error was made on their end.
Will updating my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Updating your address does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may need to know about your address change, so contact them separately to update your policy. Some insurance companies offer discounts based on location, so notifying them promptly can affect your rates.
Can someone else update my address for me?
No. You must update your address yourself, either online or in person. If you update in person, you must bring your own driver's license. The online method requires your driver's license number and personal information that only you should have access to.