Where to update your Texas driver's license
You can update your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, or online through the DPS website for certain changes. The online option is available only for address changes and name changes due to marriage or court order — you cannot renew your license online, and you cannot change your photo or other identifying details remotely. If you need to change your photo, correct an error on your license, or update information that is not your address or name, you must visit a DPS office.
The DPS operates driver license offices across all Texas counties. You do not have to visit the office in your home county; any DPS office can process your update. Wait times vary by location and time of day, and some offices allow you to reserve a time slot online before you arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Address and name changes can be done online through the DPS website without visiting an office, but all other updates require an in-person visit.
- You will need your current driver's license, proof of your new address or name (such as a utility bill or marriage certificate), and proof of identity and Social Security number if you are changing your name.
- DPS offices do not require an appointment in most locations, but you can reserve a time slot online at many offices to reduce wait time.
- Updating your address or name does not cost a fee, but changing your photo or correcting errors may require you to pay a replacement license fee depending on the type of change.
Updating your address online
To change your address online, visit the Texas DPS website and select the option to update your driver's license information. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address and review the information for accuracy before submitting.
The online address change is processed when ready, and you will receive a confirmation. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee for an address-only change.
Updating your name online
If you changed your name due to marriage or court order, you can update it online through the DPS website. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a document that proves your name change — such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will upload an image of this document as part of the online process.
After you submit your name change online, the DPS will review your documents. If approved, your updated license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If the DPS needs more information or cannot verify your documents, they will contact you by mail or phone.
Visiting a DPS office to update your license
For changes other than address or name — such as updating your photo, correcting an error, changing your height or eye color, or updating your emergency contact — you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return). If you are updating your address in person, bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
The DPS office will take a new photo if you are updating your photo or if your current license photo is more than 8 years old. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You will pay a replacement license fee if you are changing your photo or correcting certain errors; address-only changes do not carry a fee.
What documents you need
| Type of Update | Documents Needed | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Address change (online) | Current driver's license, last four digits of Social Security number | None |
| Address change (in person) | Current driver's license, proof of new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage) | None |
| Name change (online) | Current driver's license, marriage certificate or court order, last four digits of Social Security number | None |
| Name change (in person) | Current driver's license, marriage certificate or court order, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number | None |
| Photo update | Current driver's license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number | Replacement license fee (varies) |
| Error correction | Current driver's license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, document proving the correct information | Replacement license fee (varies) |
Finding a DPS office and checking wait times
The Texas DPS website has a locator tool where you can search for driver license offices by city or county. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You can check current wait times at many offices through the DPS website before you go.
If you want to reserve a time slot, visit the DPS website and look for the option to schedule an appointment at your chosen location. Not all offices offer online scheduling, but those that do allow you to pick a specific time and skip the walk-in line. Scheduling is free and does not may provide a shorter visit, but it reduces the time you spend waiting.
Timeline and what to expect after your update
If you update your address or name online, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you visit a DPS office in person, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your permanent replacement license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your temporary license is valid for driving until your permanent license arrives.
Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to a DPS office if you prefer. If your new license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DPS to report it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I update my driver's license if it is expired?
Yes, you can update your address or name on an expired license through the online process. If you visit an office in person, you can update your information on an expired license, but you may be required to renew your license at the same time, which will involve an additional fee and a new photo.
What if I changed my name but do not have a marriage certificate?
If you lost your marriage certificate, you can request a certified copy from the county clerk's office where you were married. If you changed your name by court order, bring a certified copy of the court order. The DPS will not accept a photocopy; the document must be an official certified copy.
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Texas law does not require you to update your driver's license address within a specific timeframe, but it is recommended. An outdated address can cause problems with traffic tickets, vehicle registration, and official mail. You can update it online at any time at no cost.
What if the DPS rejects my online name change?
If your online name change is rejected, the DPS will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include unclear documents or a mismatch between the name on your document and the name on your license. You can then visit a DPS office in person with the required documents, and a staff member can help you resolve the issue.