How to change your address with Texas DPS

You can change the address on your Texas driver's license or ID card through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest and costs nothing if you're only updating your address — no new photo or document verification required. If you need a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you'll pay a fee (currently $16 for a driver's license or $13 for an ID card, though these amounts can change).

The address change itself is free. You're only charged if you request a new card. Many people update their address online and keep their existing card, which remains valid even though it shows the old address — DPS records will reflect the correct one.

Key Takeaways

  • Online address changes through the DPS website take minutes and cost nothing, though your physical card will still show the old address until you order a replacement.
  • You'll need your driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
  • If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you'll pay $16 for a driver's license or $13 for an ID card and can pick it up at a DPS office or have it mailed to you.
  • In-person changes at a DPS office take about 15 to 30 minutes and require proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within 90 days.
  • Mail-in changes require the same proof of residency documents and take two to four weeks to process.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver License/ID" section. Select "Change Address Online" or a similar option (the exact wording changes occasionally, but it's always in the driver's license area). You'll be asked to enter your driver's license or ID number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. DPS uses these to verify your identity before allowing the change.

Once verified, enter your new address exactly as you want it recorded. Double-check the spelling and zip code — this is what DPS will have on file, even if your physical card doesn't update when ready. After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Save or print this; it's your proof the change went through. The update typically shows in DPS records within one business day.

Your existing card remains valid and legal to use. If you want the new address printed on a physical card, you can order a replacement during the online process or do it later at a DPS office. You'll be charged the replacement fee at that time.

Ordering a replacement card with your new address

If you want a card that shows your updated address, you have two options: order it online when you change your address, or go to a DPS office in person. When you order online, you'll choose whether to pick it up at a DPS office (usually ready in 7 to 10 business days) or have it mailed to your new address (typically 10 to 15 business days). The mailing option is convenient but means you won't have the card when ready.

The replacement fee is $16 for a driver's license or $13 for an ID card. Payment is handled online if you order through the website. If you go in person to a DPS office, bring your current license or ID and payment method (cash, check, or card — accepted methods vary by office). The office will take a new photo and print your card on the spot or mail it, depending on the office's equipment.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS driver's license office in Texas. Bring your current driver's license or ID card, proof of your new address, and proof of identity. Proof of residency must be an original document (not a copy) dated within the last 90 days — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A cell phone bill typically does not.

Tell the clerk you want to update your address. If you only want the address changed in the system, this takes about 15 minutes and costs nothing. If you want a replacement card printed with the new address, the process takes about 30 minutes total, and you'll pay the replacement fee. Some offices print cards on-site; others mail them. Ask the clerk which applies to your location.

Wait times at DPS offices vary widely by location and time of day. Offices are typically less crowded on weekday mornings and more crowded on Fridays and after 3 p.m. You can check wait times for your local office on the DPS website before you go.

Changing your address by mail

Request a change-of-address form from the DPS website or call your local DPS office to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form completely, including your current license or ID number, date of birth, and new address. Attach an original proof of residency document dated within 90 days (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement). Do not send your actual driver's license or ID card unless you're also requesting a replacement.

Mail the completed form and proof of residency to the DPS address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks. You'll receive confirmation by mail once the change is complete. If you requested a replacement card, it will arrive separately. If you only requested an address change, you won't receive a new card — just confirmation that your file has been updated.

Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. The mail-in method is slowest but works if you can't visit an office or don't have internet access.

What counts as proof of residency

DPS accepts original documents (photocopies are not accepted) dated within 90 days of your process. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, bank statements, and insurance bills. The document must show your name and your new address.

Documents that do not work include cell phone bills, credit card statements, and mail from government agencies (like tax refund notices). If you've just moved and don't have a document in your name yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your residency, dated within 90 days. Some DPS offices will accept this, though policies vary — call ahead to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to get a new card if I change my address?

No. Changing your address in the DPS system is free and doesn't require a new card. Your current card remains valid even though it shows the old address. DPS records will reflect your new address for all official purposes. You only pay if you want a replacement card printed with the updated address.

How long does it take for an address change to show up in DPS records?

Online changes typically appear in DPS records within one business day. In-person changes are when ready. Mail-in changes take two to four weeks. If you need proof of the change right away, ask for a confirmation number or receipt at the time you make the change.

What if I don't have proof of residency dated within 90 days?

Contact your utility company, landlord, or bank and ask for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some DPS offices will accept this in place of a standard document, but policies vary by location. Call your local DPS office before you go to confirm what they'll accept.

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

Yes. An expired license or ID can still be used to change your address online. However, if your license or ID is suspended or revoked, you'll need to go in person to a DPS office and may need to resolve the suspension or revocation first. Call DPS to check your status before you visit.

What if I move out of Texas?

You don't need to notify DPS if you move out of state. Your Texas license or ID remains valid for identification purposes. However, if you plan to drive in your new state, you'll need to get a license or ID from that state. Texas will not automatically cancel your license when you leave.