Where and how to change your address in Texas

You can update your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS driver license office. The online method is the fastest and requires no documents if you are only changing your address. Mail and in-person visits both work but take longer and may require proof of residency depending on your situation.

The online option is available at the DPS website under "Change of Address" and takes about 10 minutes. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The change typically shows in the system within one business day, though your physical card will not reflect the new address until you renew it.

If you prefer to go in person, you can visit any DPS driver license office in Texas. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days works). Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check wait times on the DPS website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through the DPS website is the fastest way to change your address and requires only your license number, last four digits of your Social Security number, and date of birth.
  • An address change made online takes effect in the system within one business day, but your physical card will show the old address until you renew it.
  • In-person visits at any DPS driver license office require proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 90 days.
  • Mail-in address changes are slower than online or in-person options and require you to send your current license and proof of residency to the DPS.

What counts as proof of your new address

If you change your address in person or by mail, you must provide a document that shows your name and new address. The DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and government-issued mail (such as a tax notice or voter registration card). The document must be dated within the last 90 days.

If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet—for example, if you just moved and utilities have not been transferred—you can use a notarized affidavit of residency. This is a signed statement, notarized by a notary public, confirming that you live at the new address. You can obtain one from a notary at a bank, law office, or UPS store, usually for a small fee.

Changing your address online step by step

Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Change of Address" from the driver license services menu. You will be asked to 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 then ask you to enter your new address.

After you submit the new address, you will receive a confirmation number. Save or print this number for your records. The address change takes effect in the DPS system within one business day. You can check the status of your change by logging back into the DPS website with the same information.

Keep in mind that changing your address online does not issue you a new physical card. Your current driver's license will still show your old address. When you renew your license—either at the end of its validity period or when you choose to renew early—the new card will show your updated address.

Mailing in your address change

To change your address by mail, print the Change of Address form from the DPS website or request one by calling the DPS at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-377-8329). Fill out the form with your current information and new address, then mail it along with a copy of your current driver's license and proof of residency to the address listed on the form.

Mail processing takes two to four weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope. There is no fee for an address change. Send your documents by regular mail or certified mail if you want tracking. The DPS recommends certified mail so you have proof of delivery, though it is not required.

When you need a new card with your new address

An address change alone does not trigger a new card. Your current license remains valid and can be used for identification even though it shows your old address. However, if you want a physical card that shows your new address before your renewal date, you can renew your license early.

Early renewal costs the same as a regular renewal and extends your license validity from the new renewal date. You can renew in person at any DPS driver license office or online through the DPS website if you meet the requirements (no major changes to your license class, no medical restrictions, and no name changes). Bring or upload proof of residency if you renew in person.

Address changes and vehicle registration

Updating your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You must notify the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) separately if your vehicle registration is in your name. You can update your vehicle registration address online through the Texas DMV website, by mail, or in person at a county tax assessor-collector's office.

The county tax assessor-collector handles vehicle registration in Texas, not the DPS. If you have a vehicle registered in Texas, contact your county's office to update the registration address. Some counties allow online updates; others require you to visit in person or mail in a form. Check your county's website for the specific process.

What happens if you move and do not update your address

Your driver's license remains valid even if you move and do not update the address. However, official mail from the state—such as renewal notices or vehicle registration documents—will be sent to the address on file. If you do not receive these notices, you may miss renewal important date or other important information.

Law enforcement may also note the address discrepancy if you are stopped, though an outdated address on your license is not a violation. For practical reasons, it is best to update your address within a reasonable time after moving to may support you receive important documents and to avoid confusion during traffic stops or when presenting your license for identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No. The online change of address tool requires a valid, unexpired license. If your license is expired, you must renew it first before you can change the address online. You can renew in person at a DPS office or online if you meet the renewal requirements.

How long does it take to see the address change in the system?

Online changes take effect within one business day. Mail-in changes take two to four weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope. In-person changes are processed when ready, though your physical card will not show the new address until you renew.

Do I need to bring my old license when I change my address in person?

Yes. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days). If you do not have a document in your name yet, a notarized affidavit of residency will work.

Will my vehicle registration address update automatically when I change my driver's license address?

No. Your vehicle registration is separate from your driver's license. You must contact your county tax assessor-collector's office to update your vehicle registration address. Some counties offer online updates; others require a visit or mail-in form.

What if I moved but do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?

You can use a notarized affidavit of residency, which is a signed statement confirming you live at the new address. A notary public can create and notarize this document for a small fee. Banks, law offices, and UPS stores typically offer notary services.