You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office
The fastest way to update your address on a Texas driver's license is through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You can also mail in a form, visit a DPS office in person, or update your address when you renew. The method you choose depends on whether you need the change right away and whether you want to keep your current license or get a new one with your new address printed on it.
Texas does not require you to update your address within a specific timeframe, but doing it promptly matters if you move and receive a ticket or need to show your license for identification. An outdated address can also cause problems if you're pulled over and the officer's records don't match what you're carrying.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes, but you keep your current license with the old address printed on it.
- If you want a new license card with your new address printed on it, you must visit a DPS office in person or renew your license early, which costs a fee.
- Mailing in a change-of-address form takes two to three weeks and also keeps your current card unchanged.
- You will need your driver's license number, a valid email address, and proof of your new address to complete any method.
- Your new address takes effect in the DPS system when ready online or within a few days by mail, even if your physical card doesn't change.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Change Address Online" from the driver's license services menu. You will need 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 enter your new address and confirm your email address, where DPS will send a confirmation.
This method is free and updates your address in the DPS system right away. However, your physical license card will still show your old address. If you need a card with your new address printed on it, you will have to pay for a replacement or wait until your license renewal date. The online change is useful if you just need the address updated in the system for official records.
Getting a new license card with your new address
To get a physical license card printed with your new address, you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and proof of identity. The fee for a replacement license is $16 for a standard five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license.
DPS offices are located throughout Texas. You can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the DPS website. Some offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can shorten your wait time. The new card is usually issued the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.
Mailing in a change-of-address form
If you prefer not to go online or visit an office, you can mail a completed form to DPS. read the "Change of Address" form from the DPS website or call 1-888-589-6556 to request one by mail. Fill in your driver's license number, current address, new address, and sign the form.
Mail the form to the address listed on the DPS website. Processing takes two to three weeks. Like the online method, this updates your address in the system but does not change the address printed on your physical card. You will receive a confirmation letter by mail once the change is complete.
Updating your address during license renewal
When your license is due to expire, you can renew it and update your address at the same time. You can renew online, by mail, or in person, depending on your license type and how long it has been since your last renewal. If you renew in person at a DPS office, you can update your address and receive a new card with the correct address on the same day.
Renewing online or by mail also allows you to change your address, but you will not receive a new physical card unless you pay the replacement fee. Check the DPS website to see whether your license type is may be able to access for online or mail renewal, since some licenses require an in-person visit.
What counts as proof of your new address
DPS accepts several documents as proof of your new address. These include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document with your name and new address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days and show your full name and complete address.
If you do not have one of these documents yet—for example, if you just moved and the utility company has not sent a bill in your name—you can use a combination of documents. Some DPS offices will accept a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on letterhead, along with a piece of mail showing your name. Call your local DPS office ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will work.
Timeline and what to expect
The online method is when ready—your address updates in the system as soon as you complete the form. Mailing in a form takes two to three weeks. Visiting a DPS office in person usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is, and your new card is issued the same day or shortly after.
Once your address is updated in the DPS system, law enforcement and other agencies can see the new address when they look up your license. Your old physical card remains valid for identification purposes even after the address changes in the system, so you do not need to carry a new card to be legal. However, if you are stopped by police, they may note that your card does not match their records, which can cause confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?
Texas does not legally require you to update your address within a specific timeframe. However, it is a good idea to do so for official records and to avoid confusion if you are pulled over or need to show your license for identification.
Can I change my address without getting a new card?
Yes. The online method and the mail-in form both update your address in the DPS system without issuing a new card. Your old card remains valid, but it will show your previous address. If you want a card printed with your new address, you must visit a DPS office and pay the replacement fee.
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online process takes about 10 minutes to complete. Your address is updated in the DPS system right away. You will receive a confirmation email within a few minutes.
What if I do not have a recent utility bill or lease to prove my new address?
DPS accepts several types of documents dated within the last 90 days, including bank statements, property tax bills, and government documents. Some offices will also accept a signed letter from your landlord with a piece of mail showing your name. Call your local DPS office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.
Can I change my address at a DPS office without paying for a new card?
No. If you visit a DPS office, you must pay the replacement fee ($16 or $32 depending on license length) to receive a new card. To update your address without paying, use the online method or mail in a form.