What you need to do to change your name on your Texas driver's license
To change your name on your Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person with proof of your legal name change and your current license. Texas does not allow name changes by mail or online. The process itself is straightforward — you complete an process, provide documents, and pay a fee — but the documents you bring depend on why your name changed.
The state recognizes name changes through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal means. Each route requires different paperwork, and bringing the wrong documents will send you back home. This guide walks through what each situation requires and what to expect at the office.
Key Takeaways
- You must appear in person at a DPS driver license office with your current license and proof of your legal name change; no online or mail options exist.
- Marriage requires a certified marriage certificate; divorce requires a certified divorce decree showing your new name; court-ordered changes require the certified court order.
- You will need to complete Form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License) and pay the standard renewal or replacement fee, which varies by license type.
- Processing takes about two weeks for a standard license, though you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait for the plastic card.
Name change through marriage
If you married and took your spouse's last name, bring your current Texas driver's license and a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The certificate must be an official certified copy from the county clerk where you were married, not a photocopy or the original certificate you received at the wedding.
Some DPS offices will accept a certified marriage certificate from any state if you married outside Texas. Call the office where you plan to go to confirm they will accept an out-of-state certificate, or bring it anyway — most do, but policies can vary by location.
Name change through divorce
A divorce decree that shows your new name is what the DPS needs. Bring a certified copy of the final divorce decree from the court that issued it. The decree must clearly show the name you are changing to; if your divorce papers do not list a name change, you will need a separate court order.
If you divorced in another state, bring the certified decree from that state's court. Texas DPS offices accept out-of-state divorce decrees, but call ahead to confirm the specific office you plan to visit has no additional requirements.
Name change through court order
A legal name change filed through district court requires a certified copy of the court order granting the name change. This is the document you receive after a judge signs off on your petition. Bring this certified order to the DPS office along with your current license.
Court-ordered name changes are common for reasons other than marriage or divorce — for example, to remove a former spouse's name, to change a child's name, or for personal reasons. The process is the same regardless of the reason: the certified court order is your proof.
Documents and fees at the DPS office
When you arrive at the DPS office, bring your current driver's license, your certified name-change document, and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Texas address and dated within the last 90 days.
You will complete Form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License) at the office. The fee depends on your license type and how much time remains on your current license. A standard replacement due to a name change typically costs between $16 and $25, though fees can vary. Ask the office staff for the exact amount when you arrive, or check the DPS website for your specific situation.
You will also have your photo taken and provide your signature. Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return.
Processing time and temporary licenses
Standard processing takes about two weeks from the date you submit your process. During that time, you can drive using your old license. If you need to drive before the new license arrives, ask the DPS office for a temporary paper license (also called a temporary driving permit). This paper license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while your plastic card is being printed.
The DPS will mail your new license to the address you provide on the process. Make sure the address is correct before you leave the office, because changing it later requires another visit or a phone call to request a remail.
Finding a DPS driver license office near you
Texas has DPS driver license offices in most cities and many smaller towns. You can search for the office closest to you on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or zip code. The website also shows office hours, which vary by location — some offices close for lunch or operate limited hours on certain days.
Offices can be busy, especially on Fridays and the first week of the month. Arriving early in the day or on a Tuesday or Wednesday typically means shorter waits. Some offices offer online appointment scheduling; check your local office's page to see if you can reserve a time slot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my license if I do not have a certified copy of my marriage certificate or divorce decree?
No. The DPS requires a certified copy, not a photocopy or original. You can order a certified copy from the county clerk where you were married or divorced, or from the court that issued your divorce decree. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $25 depending on the county.
What if I changed my name through marriage but my marriage certificate shows a different name than what I want on my license?
The name on your license must match the name on your certified marriage certificate. If there is a discrepancy, you will need a court order correcting your name before the DPS can change your license. Contact the district court in your county to file a name correction petition.
Do I have to change my name on my license if I got married or divorced?
No. Changing your name on your license is optional. However, your license name should match your legal name for consistency with other documents like your Social Security card and passport. If you do not change it, you may face questions when using your license as identification.
Can someone else go to the DPS office and change my name for me?
No. You must appear in person. The DPS requires your signature and photo as part of the process process. No one can do this on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.
What happens if I move to another state after changing my name on my Texas license?
Your Texas license remains valid until it expires. When you move, you will need to get a driver's license in your new state. Bring your Texas license and your certified name-change document to the new state's licensing office; most states accept out-of-state licenses and name-change documents as proof.