Where to update your Texas driver's license

You update your Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), either in person at a driver license office or online for certain changes. The method you use depends on what information you're changing — some updates require a visit, while others can be done from home.

Texas has driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. Many offices operate by appointment only, so you'll need to schedule a time before you go. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but appointment holders are seen first.

If you're changing your address only, you may be able to update online through your DPS account without visiting an office. This option is faster and doesn't require an appointment, but it's only available for address changes — not for name changes, corrections to your photo, or other updates.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes can be done online through your DPS account if you have a valid Texas driver's license, but most other updates require an in-person visit.
  • You'll need to bring your current driver's license, proof of your new information (such as a marriage certificate or court order for a name change), and proof of your current address.
  • Most driver license offices operate by appointment, which you can schedule on the DPS website or by calling your local office.
  • The fee for updating your license varies by the type of change, but address changes are usually free when done online.

What documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on what you're updating. For any change, bring your current Texas driver's license and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.

For a name change, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The document must be an official copy, not a photocopy you made yourself. If your document is from outside Texas, you may need to bring a certified copy.

For a correction to your date of birth, place of birth, or other personal information on your license, bring an official document that shows the correct information, such as your birth certificate or passport. For a photo update, you don't need to bring anything except your current license and proof of address — the office will take a new photo.

If you're updating your address online, you won't need to bring documents to an office, but you will need to log into your DPS account with your driver's license number and date of birth.

How to schedule an appointment

To schedule an appointment online, go to dps.texas.gov and look for the driver license appointment scheduling tool. You'll select your county, the type of transaction you need (such as "update address" or "name change"), and the office location. The system will show you available dates and times, usually several weeks out depending on how busy your local office is.

If you prefer to call, find your local driver license office's phone number on the DPS website and call during business hours. Staff can schedule you over the phone and answer questions about what documents to bring. Some offices also allow walk-ins, but you may wait longer than if you had an appointment.

When you schedule, have your driver's license number and the type of change you need ready. The appointment confirmation will tell you exactly what to bring and what time to arrive.

Updating your address online

If you're only changing your address and your current Texas driver's license is valid (not expired), you can update online without visiting an office. Go to dps.texas.gov, log into your account with your driver's license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to enter your new address.

The online update is free and takes a few minutes. Your new address will be recorded in the system right away, but you won't receive a new physical license card in the mail — your current card remains valid with the old address printed on it. The DPS system will show your correct address, and that's what law enforcement and other agencies see when they scan your license.

If you need a new card printed with your updated address, you'll have to visit a driver license office in person and pay the update fee. This is optional unless your license is expiring soon and you want the new address on the card itself.

What happens at the driver license office

When you arrive for your appointment, check in at the front desk and bring all your documents. A staff member will review what you've brought to make sure everything is there and correct. If something is missing or doesn't match what you're trying to update, they'll tell you right away.

For most updates, you'll answer questions to confirm your information, sign a form, and have your photo taken if it's a photo update. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll receive a receipt showing your transaction was completed.

Your updated license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. The DPS will send it to the address you provided, so make sure the address you give is correct and that you'll be there to receive it. If you move before your license arrives, you can update your address again online or at an office.

Fees for updating your license

Address changes done online are free. Address changes done in person at a driver license office cost $11. Name changes, corrections to personal information, and photo updates each have different fees that range from $11 to $25, depending on the type of change and whether your license is being renewed at the same time.

The DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at driver license offices. If you're unsure about the fee for your specific update, call your local office or check the DPS website before you go.

If your license is expired

If your Texas driver's license is expired, you cannot update it online — you must visit a driver license office in person. The office will treat your visit as both a renewal and an update, and you'll pay the combined fee for both transactions.

Bring your expired license along with the documents for the update you need. The staff will process both the renewal and the change at the same time. Your new license will be mailed to you with both the renewal and the updated information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my updated license in the mail?

The DPS typically mails updated licenses within 7 to 10 business days of your visit to the office. Delivery time depends on your location and the mail service. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact your local driver license office.

Can I update my address if I just moved and don't have a utility bill yet?

You need proof of your current address dated within the last 90 days. If you don't have a utility bill, lease, or bank statement yet, you can bring a signed letter from your landlord or a mortgage statement. Call your local office to ask what other documents they accept.

Do I need an appointment to update my license?

Most Texas driver license offices require appointments, though some accept walk-ins. Check your local office's website or call to find out. Scheduling an appointment online or by phone is faster and means less waiting time.

What if I'm changing my name and my marriage certificate is from another state?

You can bring an out-of-state marriage certificate, but it must be an official copy issued by the vital records office in that state, not a photocopy. If you're unsure whether your copy is official enough, call your local driver license office before you go.

Can someone else pick up my updated license for me?

No. The DPS mails your updated license directly to the address you provide. You cannot have someone else pick it up at the office. Make sure the mailing address you give is one where you'll receive mail.