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 early. The fastest route is the online change through the DPS website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer mail or in-person, both work, but mail takes longer and in-person requires a trip to a DPS office during business hours.

You do not need a new photo or a new license card unless your current license is expiring soon. The address change updates your record in the system, and law enforcement can see the new address when they scan your license. Your physical card keeps the old address printed on it until your license renews.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the DPS website is free and the fastest option, taking about 10 minutes from start to finish.
  • You will need your current Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change online.
  • If you change your address by mail, send a signed letter with your old and new addresses and your license number to the DPS address on their website, and allow 4 to 6 weeks.
  • In-person changes at any DPS office take about 15 to 30 minutes and require no fee, but you must bring your current license and proof of your new address.
  • Your printed license card will still show your old address until your license renews, but the DPS system updates when ready with your new address.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under driver's license services. You will create or log into your DPS online account using your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to confirm your current address, enter your new address, and review the information before submitting.

Once you submit, the change takes effect when ready in the DPS system. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. There is no fee for this change. Your license card itself will not change — the old address stays printed on it — but police officers and other officials can see your updated address when they look up your record.

Changing your address by mail

Write a letter on plain paper that includes your full name, current address (the one on your license), new address, date of birth, and driver's license number. Sign the letter and mail it to the address listed on the DPS website for address changes. Do not send your physical license card unless it is damaged or expiring within 30 days.

Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time DPS receives your letter. There is no fee. Keep a copy of your letter for your records. If you need to confirm the change was received, you can call the DPS customer service line, though wait times vary.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS Driver License office in Texas with your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable address proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. The office staff will update your record on the spot, and the change takes effect when ready.

There is no fee for an address change. The visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Your license card will still show your old address, but your record in the system updates right away. You can find office locations and hours on the DPS website.

What counts as proof of your new address

If you are changing your address in person, bring one document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document with your new address all work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts.

If you do not have any of these documents yet — for example, if you just moved and have not received a bill at the new address — ask the DPS office what alternatives they accept. Some offices may work with you if you bring a signed letter from your landlord or a recent lease, though policies can vary by location.

When your license card will show the new address

Your printed license card will continue to show your old address until your license renews. In Texas, driver's licenses are valid for 8 years, so if your license is not expiring soon, you may carry a card with an outdated address for several years. This is normal and legal — the address in the DPS system is what matters for official purposes.

When your license does renew, you can request a new card with your current address printed on it. If you want a new card with the updated address before your renewal date, you can renew early, but that costs the full renewal fee (currently around $60 for an 8-year license). Most people wait until the regular renewal date.

What happens if you move and do not update your address

Driving with an outdated address on your license is not illegal, but it can cause problems. Police officers may question why your address does not match, though they can see your updated address in the system. More importantly, if you get a ticket or are involved in an accident, the officer's report may use the address on your card rather than the one in the system, which can cause mail about the incident to go to your old address.

Voter registration, vehicle registration, and insurance companies may also expect your driver's license address to match your actual residence. Updating your address prevents confusion and ensures important documents reach you. It takes only a few minutes online, so it is worth doing soon after you move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my address right away after I move?

No, there is no important date. However, it is a good idea to update within a few weeks so that official documents and traffic citations reach your new address. Texas law does not specify a timeframe, but waiting too long can cause mail to go to your old address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No. You must have a valid, unexpired Texas driver's license to change your address. If your license has expired, you will need to renew it first, which requires a visit to a DPS office and includes a new photo and address update.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Texas license?

You can update your address to an out-of-state address through the online system or by mail. However, if you now live in another state, you should get a driver's license from that state. Keeping a Texas license while living elsewhere can cause problems with insurance, vehicle registration, and voting.

Will changing my address affect my driving record or points?

No. An address change only updates where you live in the DPS system. It does not affect your driving record, traffic violations, points, or insurance rates. Your record stays the same.

Can someone else change my address for me?

No. You must make the change yourself using your own license number and Social Security information. This protects your privacy and ensures the address update is accurate and authorized by you.