Where to report your address change to Texas DPS
You report an address change to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) through their online system, by mail, or in person at a driver license office. The online method is fastest — you can update your address without visiting an office or paying a fee, and the change takes effect when ready in their system. If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail a form to DPS or walk into any Texas driver license office with proof of your new address.
Texas law requires you to notify DPS of an address change within 30 days of moving. This is separate from updating your address with the U.S. Postal Service or your voter registration, though you may want to do those at the same time.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Texas DPS website takes a few minutes and costs nothing, with no office visit required.
- You must report your new address to DPS within 30 days of moving, or you may face a fine.
- If you use the online system, you do not need to renew your physical license card — your address updates in the DPS database only.
- Mailing in a change or visiting an office in person both require proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Your physical license card will still show your old address until you renew it or request a replacement card.
Using the online address change system
Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Change of Address" option under driver license services. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it.
Once you submit the change online, DPS updates their records right away. You will receive a confirmation number on screen. This online change updates the address in the DPS database, which is what law enforcement and government agencies see when they look up your license. Your physical card will still show your old address until you renew it or order a replacement, but that does not affect the validity of the change.
Mailing your address change to DPS
If you prefer to mail your change, you will need to send a letter or the official DPS form to the address listed on the DPS website. Include your driver license number, full name, old address, new address, and a copy of proof of your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address on it.
Mail processing takes longer than the online method — typically two to four weeks. Send your documents to the DPS mailing address shown on their website, as it may vary by region. Keep a copy of what you send in case DPS needs to contact you about the change.
Changing your address in person at a driver license office
You can walk into any Texas driver license office and request an address change. Bring your driver license and one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or recent mail from a government agency. The office staff will update your address in the system while you wait.
There is no fee for an address-only change. The office will give you a receipt showing the change was processed. Like the online method, this updates your address in the DPS database when ready, but your physical card will still show your old address until you renew or replace it.
What happens if you do not report your address change
Texas law requires you to report a move within 30 days. If you do not, you may be fined up to $200. More importantly, if law enforcement or a court tries to reach you at the address on file and you are no longer there, you may miss important notices — such as a traffic ticket, jury duty summons, or court date.
An outdated address can also cause problems when you renew your license or explore for other documents. Some agencies cross-check addresses, and mismatches can delay processing. Updating your address promptly keeps your records accurate across government systems.
The difference between updating your address and renewing your license
An address change and a license renewal are two separate transactions. Changing your address updates where DPS has on file but does not extend your license expiration date or issue you a new card. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date, even if your address is now different in the DPS system.
When you do renew your license — either because it is expiring or because you want a new card with your current address — you can do that at the same time or separately. If you want a new physical card with your new address printed on it before your renewal date, you can request a replacement card at a driver license office for a small fee, usually around $11.
Proof of address documents DPS will accept
DPS accepts documents that show your name and new address and are dated within the last 60 days. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, insurance documents, or official mail from a government agency. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo of a document usually will not work.
If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address. Some offices will accept this as temporary proof while you wait for official documents to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to get a new physical license card when I change my address?
No. An address change updates your information in the DPS system but does not require a new card. Your old card remains valid. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request a replacement card for a fee, but it is not required.
How long does it take for an address change to show up?
Online changes take effect when ready. Mail-in changes take two to four weeks. In-person changes at a driver license office are processed while you wait. Law enforcement and other agencies can see your updated address in the DPS system right away with online or in-person changes.
What if I move again before my address change is processed?
You can submit another address change at any time. If you used the online system, you can update it again when ready. If you mailed a change and move before it is processed, contact DPS to let them know, or submit a new change with your current address.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. You can change your address even if your license has expired. However, you will need to renew your license before you can drive legally. Address changes and renewals are separate processes, so handle both when you are ready.
Is there a fee to change my address on my Texas driver license?
No. Changing your address online, by mail, or in person at a driver license office is free. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement card with your new address printed on it.