You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) lets you update your driver license 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 to go in person or by mail, both options work — they just take longer.

You do not need a new photo or to retake a test. DPS only updates the address printed on your card and in their system. Your license itself stays valid until its expiration date.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the DPS website is free and the fastest option, taking minutes to complete.
  • You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
  • If you cannot change your address online, you can mail a completed form DL-43 to DPS or visit a DPS office in person with your license and proof of residency.
  • Proof of residency means a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address.
  • Address changes by mail or in person take one to two weeks, while online changes are when ready.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under driver license services. You will need your current driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering security questions based on your DPS records.

Once you complete the online form, the change takes effect when ready in the DPS system. Your physical license card still shows the old address until you renew it, but law enforcement and government agencies can see your updated address right away. You do not receive a new card or a confirmation letter — the change is recorded in the system only.

Mailing in a change-of-address form

If you prefer not to go online, you can print form DL-43 from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. You do not need to include your license itself or any other documents — just the signed form.

Mail the form to the address listed on the DPS website (it varies by region). Processing takes one to two weeks from the date DPS receives it. Like the online change, your physical card will not be updated, but your address will be changed in the system. If you want to track your request, call the DPS customer service line after a week to confirm receipt.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Bring your current driver license and proof that you live at the new address. Proof of residency means a document from the past 90 days showing your name and new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail all work. A piece of mail from an employer or school usually does not count unless it shows your home address.

Tell the DPS employee you want to change your address. They will update it in the system while you wait. The change is when ready, and you will receive a receipt. Your physical license card will not change until you renew it, but your address in the system updates that day.

What happens to your physical license card

Your driver license card itself will continue to show your old address until you renew your license. This is normal and does not cause problems — police officers and government agencies can see your current address in the system when they look up your license. You do not need to carry proof of your address change or explain it to anyone.

If you want your physical card to show your new address before your renewal date, you would need to renew your license early. That costs the full renewal fee and requires a new photo and a visit to a DPS office. Most people wait until their regular renewal date instead.

When you need to change your address

You should update your address with DPS as soon as you move. Texas law does not set a specific important date, but changing it promptly keeps your voter registration, vehicle registration, and other records in sync. If you get pulled over and your address is outdated, it will not result in a ticket, but it can cause confusion.

If you also own a vehicle registered in Texas, you will need to update that address separately with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. A driver license address change does not automatically update your vehicle registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if I have a REAL ID license?

Yes. REAL ID licenses can be updated online the same way as standard licenses. The online system works for both types.

What if I do not have proof of residency for an in-person change?

You can use the online or mail-in method instead, neither of which requires proof of residency. If you need to change it in person without proof of residency, call your local DPS office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Do I need to change my address if I moved out of state?

If you no longer live in Texas, you should get a driver license from your new state instead of updating your Texas address. Once you have a license from the new state, you can let your Texas license expire or surrender it to DPS.

How long does an online address change take to show up?

The change is when ready in the DPS system. Law enforcement and government agencies can see your new address right away. Your physical card will still show the old address until you renew your license.

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 or expired. If you want to change it in person, call ahead to your local DPS office to confirm they will process it while your license is not valid.