Where to update your Texas driver's license

You can update your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office. The state has over 130 locations across Texas, and you do not need an appointment at most of them, though some offices accept online scheduling to reduce wait time. You can also renew or update certain information by mail if you meet specific conditions — mainly if you are renewing a license that has not yet expired and you do not need to change your address or photograph.

The fastest option depends on what you are changing. Address changes can often be done online through the DPS website without visiting an office. Name changes, photograph updates, and corrections to personal information typically require an in-person visit. Before you go to a DPS office, check the office locator on the Texas DPS website to confirm hours and current wait times, as these vary significantly by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes can be completed online through the Texas DPS website without visiting a driver license office.
  • Name changes, photograph updates, and corrections to personal details require an in-person visit to a DPS office.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current driver's license or ID card at most DPS offices.
  • Mail renewal is available only if your license has not expired and you are not changing your address or photograph.
  • DPS offices do not require appointments at most locations, but you can schedule one online to reduce wait time.

What documents to bring for an in-person update

Texas DPS requires specific documents depending on what you are updating. For any in-person visit, bring your current Texas driver's license or ID card. You will also need a document that proves your identity — a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate all work. If you are changing your address, bring proof of your current residence, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.

If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The document must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy. If you are updating your photograph, you do not need additional documents beyond your ID and proof of identity, but you should be prepared to have a new photo taken at the office. Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, as DPS will verify it during your visit.

How to change your address online

Address changes are the one update you can complete entirely online without visiting a DPS office. 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. The system will verify your identity using this information.

After you submit the change online, DPS will mail you an updated license to your new address. The new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to update your address before your license renewal date and you do this online, you will not pay a fee — the address change is free when done through the DPS website.

Steps for updating your name or photograph in person

Visit your nearest DPS driver license office with your documents. Check in at the front desk and tell the staff member what you need to update. If you are changing your name, present your certified name-change document. If you are updating your photograph, the office will take a new photo as part of the process — you do not need to bring one.

The staff member will review your documents, verify your information in the system, and collect any fees. Name changes and photograph updates each have a fee, though the amount varies. After your visit, DPS will mail your updated license to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Renewing by mail instead of in person

Mail renewal is available only if your license has not expired and you do not need to change your address, photograph, or personal information. To renew by mail, request a renewal process from the Texas DPS website or call the DPS customer service line. Fill out the process, include your current license, and mail everything to the address provided on the form along with the renewal fee.

Processing time for mail renewals is typically 15 to 20 business days from the date DPS receives your process. Your current license remains valid during this time. Mail renewal is not an option if you are updating information — it is only for straightforward renewals when nothing on your license needs to change.

What happens after you submit your update

After you complete your update — whether in person or online — DPS will process your request and mail your new license to the address on file. You should receive it within 7 to 10 business days for in-person updates and address changes, or 15 to 20 business days for mail renewals. Your current license remains valid and can be used for identification until the new one arrives.

If you do not receive your updated license within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS customer service line with your driver's license number and the date you made the update. They can check the status of your new license and tell you whether it has been mailed. If there was an error in the address you provided, DPS can reissue the license to the correct address.

Fees and payment methods at DPS offices

Fees for updates vary depending on what you are changing. Address changes done online are free. Name changes, photograph updates, and corrections to personal information each have a separate fee. Renewal fees also vary. The exact amount depends on the type of license and the length of the renewal period. You can find current fee amounts on the Texas DPS website.

DPS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have restrictions on which payment methods they accept, so call ahead if you want to confirm. If you are paying by check, make it payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my driver's license if it is expired?

If your license is expired, you must renew it rather than straightforward update it. Renewal requires an in-person visit to a DPS office. You cannot renew by mail if your license has already expired. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency to the office.

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

Most updates take 7 to 10 business days from the date DPS processes your request. Mail renewals take 15 to 20 business days. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to use it for identification.

What if I made a mistake on my update process?

Contact the Texas DPS customer service line as soon as you realize the error. They can tell you whether the mistake can be corrected before your new license is printed. If the license has already been mailed with incorrect information, you may need to visit a DPS office to request a correction.

Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver license office?

Most DPS offices do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, many offices now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times. Check the office locator on the Texas DPS website to see whether your local office accepts appointments and to view current wait times.

Can someone else pick up my updated license for me?

No. Your updated license will be mailed to the address on file with DPS. You cannot have someone else pick it up at a DPS office. If you need to change the mailing address before your license arrives, contact DPS customer service when ready.