How to Change Your Address on Your Texas Driver's License

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's license address without getting a new license card. The fastest route is the online system if your license is current and you have a valid email. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail in a form or visit a DPS office in person. The method you choose depends on how soon you need the change recorded and whether you want to keep your current card.

Your address must match what the state has on file for your vehicle registration and voter record, so updating it early prevents problems when you renew or if you're pulled over. Texas does not charge a fee to change your address.

Key Takeaways

The online address change through the DPS website takes about 10 minutes and updates your record within one business day, though your physical card stays the same.
You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
If you cannot go online, you can mail Form DL-43 to the DPS address listed on the form, which takes one to two weeks.
Visiting a DPS office in person updates your record when ready, but you may wait in line and will need to bring your current license and proof of your new address.
Your physical license card does not change when you update your address — the new address appears only in the DPS system and on your next renewal.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change Address" and enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to verify your current address, then enter your new address and confirm a valid email.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes. The DPS updates your record within one business day. Your physical license card will not change — the new address will show only when you renew your license or request an official record from DPS. This method works only if your license is not expired and you have access to email.

Mailing in a change-of-address form

read or request Form DL-43 (Change of Address) from the DPS website or any DPS office. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and new address will work.

Mail the form and proof to the address listed on the form itself, which is the DPS mailbox in Austin. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date DPS receives it. You will not receive a confirmation, so keep a copy of what you mailed. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call the DPS customer service line to confirm receipt.

Changing your address at a DPS office in person

Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. Bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail all work. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations use an online check-in system.

Tell the clerk you want to change your address. They will update your record on the spot, and the change is effective when ready in the DPS system. Your physical card will not change. Wait times vary by location and time of day; calling ahead can tell you whether the office is busy.

What counts as proof of your new address

DPS accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail all work. Bank statements and insurance documents are also acceptable. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo or screenshot usually will not work.

If you do not have a document in your name yet, some offices will accept a notarized letter from your landlord or a lease agreement signed by both you and the landlord. Call your local DPS office to ask what they will accept before you go in.

When your address change takes effect

If you change your address online or by mail, the DPS updates its system but your physical license card keeps your old address printed on it. The new address appears in the DPS database and will print on your next license renewal. If you change your address in person at a DPS office, the update is when ready in the system, but again, your card itself does not change.

Law enforcement can see your current address in the DPS system when they scan your license, so updating your address protects you from confusion during traffic stops. Your vehicle registration should also match your new address — you can update that through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website or by mail.

Changing your address if your license is expired

The online system will not let you change your address if your license has expired. You must either renew your license first or use the mail-in form or visit a DPS office in person. If you choose to renew, you can change your address as part of the renewal process, which may be faster than doing both separately.

To renew your license, go to the DPS website and follow the renewal steps. You can renew online if you meet certain requirements (your license expired less than two years ago, you are between 18 and 84, and you have not had certain medical conditions). If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail or in person and update your address at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get a new license card when I change my address?

No. Changing your address does not require a new card. Your physical license keeps the old address printed on it, but the DPS system shows your new address. The new address will print on your next renewal card.

How long does it take to change my address by mail?

One to two weeks from the date DPS receives your form. Mail delivery adds a few days on each end, so allow three weeks total. Keep a copy of what you mailed in case you need to follow up.

Can I change my address if I do not have proof of my new address yet?

It depends on the office. Some will accept a notarized letter from your landlord or a signed lease. Call your local DPS office before you go in to ask what documents they will accept without an official bill or statement in your name.

What happens if my address on my license does not match my vehicle registration?

You should update both. Update your license through DPS and your vehicle registration through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Mismatched addresses can cause confusion during traffic stops and may delay vehicle-related transactions.

Can I change my address online if I lost my license?

No. The online system requires your license number. If your license is lost, you will need to report it and get a replacement before you can change your address online. You can mail in a change-of-address form or visit an office in person using your Social Security number instead.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.