The fastest way to change your address on your Texas driver's license

You can update your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $11. If your license is expired, your name has changed, or you prefer to update in person, you will need to visit a DPS office instead.

Texas allows you to change your address up to 30 days before or after you move. Waiting until after you move is common, but updating early can prevent mail delays if your renewal notice or other documents are sent to your old address.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes work only if your license is current and your name has not changed; the fee is $11 and takes about 10 minutes.
  • 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.
  • If your license is expired or your name has changed, you must visit a DPS office in person with proof of residency and your current ID.
  • Address changes take effect when ready online, but your physical card will not reflect the new address until your next renewal.
  • You can update your address up to 30 days before you move, so you do not have to wait until after moving day.

Updating your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Change Address" under the driver's license services section. You will be taken to a find form where you enter 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 and pull up your current license information.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your record. Texas will not mail you a new card with the updated address — your physical license remains unchanged until you renew it. However, the address change is recorded in the DPS system when ready, so any official records or correspondence will use the new address.

Pay the $11 fee using a credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Keep this number in case you need to contact DPS to verify the change was processed.

When you must visit a DPS office instead

If your driver's license has expired, you cannot use the online process. You will need to renew your license at the same time you change your address, which requires an in-person visit. Bring your expired license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

If your name has changed since you got your current license — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you must visit a DPS office. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and your Social Security card.

If you have lost your license or it has been suspended, you cannot update the address online. Contact your local DPS office to discuss your options before attempting an address change.

What to bring to a DPS office

Bring your current driver's license or ID card. If your license is expired, bring it anyway — it still serves as identification. You will also need proof of residency, which must be dated within the last 90 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.

Bring your Social Security card or a document that displays your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you are a non-citizen, bring your passport or travel document. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for proof of residency or name changes.

Bring a valid payment method. In-person address changes cost $11 if your license is not expiring soon, or the full renewal fee (which varies by license type and validity period) if you are renewing at the same time. DPS offices accept cash, check, credit card, and debit card.

Finding a DPS office near you and what to expect

Use the DPS office locator on the Texas Department of Public Safety website to find the nearest driver's license office. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show all nearby locations with their hours and phone numbers. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours.

Arrive early or check wait times before you go. Many DPS offices now show estimated wait times on their website or through a phone line. Bring all required documents in a folder so you do not have to search for them at the counter. The entire process — check-in, verification, payment, and photo — usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though busy locations may have longer waits.

You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid when ready. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license shows your new address and is acceptable for all purposes, including driving and identification, until your permanent card arrives.

What happens after you update your address

If you updated online, your address change is active in the DPS system right away. Any official records, correspondence from DPS, or government agencies that check your license information will see your new address. Your physical license card will not change until your next renewal, which happens every 5 or 8 years depending on your age and license type.

If you updated in person at a DPS office, you will receive a temporary paper license showing your new address before you leave. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Do not discard the temporary license until your permanent card arrives — it is your proof of the address change if anyone questions your identification.

If you are expecting mail from DPS, your renewal notice, or other government correspondence, it will now be sent to your new address. If you moved and did not update your address, mail sent to your old address may be returned or delayed. Update your address as soon as possible after moving to avoid missing important documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my address if my license is expired?

No, you cannot use the online process. You must visit a DPS office in person and renew your license at the same time. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card. The renewal fee depends on your license type and how long you want it to be valid.

Do I get a new physical card when I change my address online?

No. Your physical license card does not change until your next renewal. The address change is recorded in the DPS system when ready, so official records and correspondence will use your new address, but your card will still show your old address until you renew.

How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?

Online changes are active when ready after you complete payment and receive your confirmation email. If you updated in person, the change is active right away, and your temporary paper license shows the new address before you leave the office.

What if I move again before my new card arrives?

You can update your address again online or in person. If you updated online the first time, you can update online again as long as your license is not expired. There is no limit to how many times you can change your address, though each online change costs $11.

Can someone else update my address for me?

No. You must update your own address using your driver's license number and Social Security number. If you cannot visit a DPS office or use the online system, contact your local DPS office to discuss other options.