Where to update your Texas driver's license

You can update your Texas driver's license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, by mail for certain changes, or online through the DPS website for address changes only. The method you use depends on what information you're changing — some updates require you to appear in person, while others can be handled from home.

The fastest route for most people is an in-person visit to a DPS office, which takes 15 to 30 minutes once you're called. If you're only changing your address and have a valid license, you can do this online without leaving home. Mail-in renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you're renewing it, not updating other information.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes can be completed online through the DPS website if your license is valid, but name changes, corrections, and other updates require an in-person visit.
  • You will need your current driver's license, proof of your new information (such as a marriage certificate or utility bill), and proof of residency if you're changing your address.
  • DPS offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.
  • Processing times vary: in-person updates are usually completed the same day, while mail-in requests take two to three weeks.

What documents to bring for an in-person update

Bring your current Texas driver's license and at least one document that proves the change you're making. For a name change, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For an address change, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your new address.

You will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form) and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence. A U.S. birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card all work. If you don't have one of these documents, DPS has a list of acceptable alternatives on its website.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is not in English, bring a certified English translation along with the original.

How to update your address online

Go to the DPS website and select "Change Address on Driver License." You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address and confirm it matches your records.

The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history. Once you pass verification, your address change is processed when ready. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

This online method works only if your license is currently valid and you are changing your address only — not your name or any other information.

Visiting a DPS office in person

Find your nearest DPS office on the agency's website by entering your city or ZIP code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

To reduce your wait, schedule an appointment online through the DPS website. Select your office location, choose the service you need (such as "Update Driver License"), and pick an available time slot. Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance, especially in larger cities.

Bring all required documents listed above. When you arrive, check in at the front desk and wait to be called. A DPS employee will verify your documents, take a new photo if required, and process your update. Most changes are completed the same day, and you'll receive your updated license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Updating by mail

Mail-in updates are limited to address changes only, and only if your license is valid and not expired. read the "Change of Address" form from the DPS website, fill it out completely, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your proof of residency.

Do not send your original license unless the form specifically instructs you to. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your envelope. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address.

Mail-in updates are slower than online or in-person options, so use this method only if you cannot visit an office or access the online system.

What happens after you submit your update

Once DPS processes your update, your new license is printed and mailed to the address on file. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, some DPS offices offer expedited printing for an additional fee — ask about this option when you visit or call your local office.

Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. Once the new license arrives, destroy the old one or return it to a DPS office if you prefer. If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact DPS to check the status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my driver's license if it's expired?

No, you cannot use the online address-change system if your license is expired. You must visit a DPS office in person to renew your license and make any other updates at the same time. Bring all documents required for both renewal and the update you need.

Do I need to take a new photo when I update my license?

A new photo is required for name changes and corrections to your personal information. For address-only changes, your existing photo is kept. If you update in person, DPS will tell you whether a new photo is needed before you complete the process.

What if I changed my name but don't have a marriage certificate?

A divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers all work as proof of a legal name change. If you lost your marriage certificate, contact the county clerk's office where you were married to request a certified copy. DPS will accept any court-issued document showing your name change.

How much does it cost to update my driver's license?

Address changes are free. Name changes and other corrections may have a small fee depending on the type of update. Check the DPS website or call your local office for the exact cost, as fees can vary.

Can someone else update my driver's license for me?

No, you must appear in person at a DPS office to update your license. The only exception is address changes, which you can complete online yourself. DPS does not accept updates submitted by another person on your behalf.