You can change your Texas driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your address without renewing your license. The fastest route is the online system at the DPS website, 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.
Your address change takes effect when ready in the DPS system once processed, even if you do not order a replacement card. This matters because law enforcement, courts, and other agencies access the live DPS record. However, the physical card in your wallet will still show your old address until you request and receive a replacement.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change at the DPS website is free and the fastest option, taking effect within one business day in most cases.
- You do not have to get a replacement card to change your address in the system, but the card itself will still show the old address until you do.
- If you use the mail-in form, include a proof of residency document such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
- In-person changes at a DPS office require an appointment booked through the online system; walk-ins are not accepted for address changes.
- A replacement card with your new address costs around $16 and arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
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 driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will ask for your new address and confirm it before you submit. Once submitted, the change is recorded in the DPS database, usually within one business day.
The online system does not charge a fee and does not require you to upload documents. However, it only works if your license is current and not suspended or revoked. If your license is expired by more than two years, you cannot use the online portal and must visit a DPS office or mail in a form instead.
After you complete the online change, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this for your records. The DPS will not mail you anything unless you order a replacement card at the same time. If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can add that to your online request for an additional fee of around $16.
Mailing a form to the DPS
read the Address Change form (Form DL-43) from the DPS website or request it by phone. Fill in your current license number, new address, and sign the form. You must include a proof of residency document dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your new address.
Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the address listed on the DPS website. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. You do not need to include payment because the address change itself is free. If you want a replacement card, include a check or money order for the replacement fee (around $16) and note on the form that you are requesting a new card.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within four weeks, contact the DPS to confirm receipt. The mail-in route is slower than online but works if you are not comfortable using the online system or if your license does not meet the requirements for online changes.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Book an appointment through the DPS website by selecting your county and choosing an available time slot. Walk-in address changes are not accepted; you must have a scheduled appointment. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency dated within the last 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return).
At your appointment, tell the DPS staff that you are changing your address only. They will update your record in the system while you wait. The change takes effect when ready. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you can request it at the same time and pay the fee (around $16). The replacement card will be mailed to your new address within two to three weeks.
In-person appointments are useful if you have questions about the process, if your license has issues that prevent online changes, or if you need the address change recorded quickly and want confirmation on the spot. However, appointment availability varies by location and can be limited during busy periods.
What proof of residency documents the DPS accepts
The DPS requires proof of residency dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, or government mail such as a tax notice or voter registration card.
The document must be an original or certified copy, not a screenshot or photo. If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet (for example, if you just moved and have not received a utility bill), you can use a notarized statement from your landlord or a letter from a government agency confirming your new address. Ask the DPS office or include a note with your mail-in form explaining your situation.
Ordering a replacement card with your new address
You can order a replacement card at the same time you change your address, whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. The replacement card costs around $16 and will be printed with your new address. It arrives by mail within two to three weeks. You do not have to order a replacement card just to change your address in the system—the address change itself is free and takes effect when ready—but many people order one so the physical card matches their current information.
If you order a replacement card, make sure the DPS has your correct mailing address before you submit your request. The card will be sent to the address you provide, not necessarily to your new residential address. Double-check this detail, especially if you are moving and want the card sent to your new home.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit your change
Online changes are recorded in the DPS system within one business day in most cases. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks. In-person changes take effect when ready. In all cases, your address is updated in the live DPS database, which law enforcement and other agencies can access right away. However, the physical card in your wallet will not change unless you order a replacement.
If you ordered a replacement card, it will be mailed separately and arrive within two to three weeks. You will not receive a tracking number or notification when it ships. If you do not receive your replacement card within four weeks, contact the DPS to check the status. Your old license remains valid for identification purposes until the new one arrives, even though the address on it is outdated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a replacement card to change my address?
No. The address change in the DPS system is free and separate from ordering a replacement card. Your address will be updated in the official record when ready, and law enforcement and government agencies will see the new address. The card itself will still show your old address until you order a replacement, but the card is not the official record—the DPS database is.
What if my license is expired?
If your license expired less than two years ago, you can still use the online address change system. If it expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the online portal and must mail a form or visit a DPS office in person. You may also need to renew your license at the same time, which involves additional steps and fees.
Can I change my address if I have a suspended or revoked license?
No. You cannot change your address online or through most mail-in processes if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DPS office in person and resolve the suspension or revocation issue first. Contact the DPS to find out why your license is suspended and what steps are required to restore it.
How long does a replacement card take to arrive?
Replacement cards are mailed within two to three weeks of your request. There is no tracking number, so you will not know exactly when it will arrive. If you do not receive it within four weeks, contact the DPS to check on the status. In the meantime, your old license is still valid for identification even though the address is outdated.
What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?
Contact the DPS before your replacement card ships and provide your updated address. If the card has already been mailed, you may be able to file a change of address with the postal service to forward it to your new location. Once you receive the card, you can submit another address change if needed.