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 on your current license without getting a new card. The fastest method is the online change through the DPS website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you prefer mail or in-person service, both are available but take longer and may have small fees attached.

Your address on file matters because it's what appears on your license and what the state uses to contact you about renewals, tickets, or vehicle registration. Updating it promptly after a move keeps your license current and prevents mail from going to an old address.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS online portal at txdps.texas.gov is the fastest way to change your address and requires only your driver's license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number.
  • An online address change does not give you a new physical card — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until renewal.
  • If you need a new card with the updated address printed on it, you must renew your license in person at a DPS office and pay the renewal fee.
  • Mail and in-person address changes at a DPS office are options if you cannot use the online system, though they take longer and may involve fees.
  • You must update your address within a reasonable time after moving; Texas law does not specify an exact important date, but doing it promptly protects you legally.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to txdps.texas.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" or "Update Address" — the exact link name changes occasionally, but it will be clearly labeled. You will need your current Texas driver's license number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear in the system. The DPS will verify your identity using the information on file and then process the change. Once approved, your address is updated in the state database when ready. You will receive a confirmation email or letter, depending on the contact method you choose during the process.

This online change updates your address for DPS records and vehicle registration purposes, but it does not print a new physical license card. Your current license card will still show your old address until you renew it. If you need the new address on the card itself, you must renew your license in person.

Renewing your license in person to get a new card with your updated address

If you want a physical license card that shows your new address, you must renew your license at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and proof of identity. The renewal fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, depending on your age.

You can renew in person at any DPS office in Texas. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through the DPS website, which can reduce your wait. The new card is usually issued on the spot or mailed to you within one to two weeks.

A renewal in person serves double duty: it updates your address in the system and gives you a new physical card with the correct address printed on it. If your license is not due for renewal yet, this is the only way to get a new card with your current address before your renewal date arrives.

Changing your address by mail

You can mail a request to the DPS to change your address. Send a letter that includes your full name, current driver's license number, date of birth, new address, and old address. Include a copy of your current license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). Mail the packet to the DPS address listed on the DPS website under "Mailing Addresses."

Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. You will receive confirmation by mail at your new address once the change is complete. Like the online method, a mail address change updates your record but does not issue a new physical card.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Walk into any DPS office in Texas and tell the staff you want to change your address. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement from the last 90 days). There is no fee for an address-only change.

The staff will update your information on the spot, and you will receive a confirmation. Your address is changed in the system when ready, but again, your physical card will not be reprinted unless you renew your license. In-person service is the fastest non-online option if you prefer face-to-face help or have questions about the process.

What counts as proof of residency

Texas accepts several documents as proof that you live at your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 90 days is the most common. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement also work. Some offices accept a government check or benefits statement mailed to your address.

The document must show your full name and your new address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a bill or statement in your name at the new address, ask the DPS office what temporary proof they will accept — some allow a signed letter from a landlord or a utility company confirmation of service.

What happens if you move but do not update your address

Your license remains valid even if your address is outdated. However, the state will mail renewal notices, vehicle registration documents, and other official correspondence to the old address on file. If you miss a renewal notice because it went to the wrong place, you could accidentally let your license expire.

In a traffic stop, an officer may note the address mismatch but will not cite you for it. However, if you are involved in an accident or legal matter, having an outdated address on file can complicate things. It is best practice to update your address within a few weeks of moving to keep your records current.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new license card if I just change my address online?

No. An online address change updates your record with the state but does not issue a new physical card. Your current license remains valid and legal to use, even though the address printed on it is old. You only get a new card if you renew your license in person at a DPS office.

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your address is updated in the DPS system when ready after you submit the form and pass identity verification. You will receive a confirmation email or letter within a few days.

What if I do not have proof of residency yet at my new address?

If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name yet, contact the DPS office where you plan to update your address. Some offices accept a signed letter from your landlord, a utility company confirmation of service, or a government check mailed to your new address. Ask what they will accept before you go in.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or expired?

You can change your address online or by mail even if your license is suspended. If your license is expired, you can still change the address, but you should also renew it. Contact the DPS to understand any restrictions on your license before updating your address.

Is there a important date to change my address after I move?

Texas law does not set a specific important date, but you should update your address within a reasonable time — generally within 30 days of moving. Updating promptly ensures you receive renewal notices and official mail at the correct location and keeps your record current with the state.