What you need to do to change your address with DPS

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) keeps records tied to your driver's license, ID card, and vehicle registration. When you move, you need to update your address with DPS so that official documents, renewal notices, and correspondence reach you at the right place. You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office — the online method is fastest and requires no documents to be mailed in.

The address change itself is free. DPS will update your records within a few business days if you go online, or within two to three weeks if you mail in a form. Your physical ID card or license will still show your old address until you renew it, but your DPS record will reflect the new one when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your DPS address online through the Texas DPS website without visiting an office or mailing documents.
  • Online changes process within a few business days; mail-in changes take two to three weeks.
  • Your physical ID or license will show your old address until you renew it, but your DPS record updates right away.
  • You will 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.

Changing your address online through the DPS website

The fastest way to update your address is through the Texas DPS online portal. Go to the DPS website and look for the "Driver License/ID Card Services" section. Select the option to change your address. You will be asked to enter your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. DPS uses this information to verify your identity before allowing the change.

After you enter your information, you will see a form asking for your new address. Type it in exactly as you want it to appear on your records. Review the information for accuracy before submitting. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation on screen and usually via email within a few minutes. Your address change will be active in the DPS system within one to three business days.

Mailing in a change of address form

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can print and mail a form to DPS. read the "Change of Address" form from the Texas DPS website, or call your local DPS office to request one by mail. Fill out the form with your current information and your new address. You will need to sign and date the form.

Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form itself — this is usually the DPS headquarters in Austin, though some regional offices accept mail-in requests. Include a copy of your driver's license or ID card if possible, though it is not always required. Mail-in changes typically take two to three weeks to process. You will not receive a confirmation letter, so if you need proof that you submitted the form, keep a copy for your records.

Changing your address in person at a DPS office

You can also visit a DPS driver license office in person to change your address. Bring your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or other official document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address.

Walk in during office hours — no appointment is needed for a straightforward address change. Tell the clerk you want to update your address. They will verify your identity, confirm your new address, and update your record on the spot. The change is active when ready in the DPS system. Your physical card will still show the old address until you renew it, but your official record is updated.

What happens to your physical ID or license after you change your address

Your driver's license or ID card will continue to show your old address until you renew it. This is normal and does not affect the validity of your card. Police officers and other officials can see your updated address in the DPS system when they scan your license, even though the card itself still displays the old one.

When you renew your license or ID — whether online, by mail, or in person — you will receive a new card with your current address printed on it. If you want the new address on your physical card sooner, you can request a replacement card at a DPS office for a fee, though this is not necessary for most purposes.

Updating your vehicle registration address separately

Changing your address with DPS updates your driver's license or ID card records, but it does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You need to notify the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) separately if your vehicle registration is in your name. You can do this online through the Texas DMV website, by mail, or in person at a county tax assessor-collector's office.

The DMV will send renewal notices and registration documents to the address on file for your vehicle. If you do not update it, you may miss important notices. Like the DPS address change, updating your vehicle registration address is free and takes a few business days to process.

What to do if you need proof of your address change

If you changed your address online or in person, DPS does not automatically send a confirmation letter. If you need written proof that your address was updated, you have a few options. If you changed your address online, you should have received a confirmation email — save this or print it for your records.

If you changed your address in person, ask the clerk for a receipt or written confirmation before you leave the office. If you changed your address by mail and need proof, contact your local DPS office directly and ask them to confirm the change in writing. You can also request an official copy of your driver's license record from DPS, which will show your current address on file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address with DPS if I move?

Texas law requires you to notify DPS of a change of address within a certain timeframe. While there is no specific penalty listed for failing to do so, keeping your address current ensures you receive important documents and renewal notices. It is considered a best practice and may be required if you are involved in a traffic stop or legal matter.

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

Yes, you can change your address online even if your license or ID has expired. The online system only needs your license or ID number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. However, if your license or ID is expired, you will need to renew it separately before you can legally drive or use it as identification.

How long does it take to receive a new card with my updated address?

You will not receive a new card just for changing your address. Your physical card will continue to show your old address until you renew your license or ID at the end of its validity period. If you want a new card with your current address sooner, you can request a replacement card at a DPS office for a fee, which typically takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

What if I moved out of state?

If you moved out of Texas, you should surrender your Texas driver's license or ID card and obtain one from your new state. Contact the DPS to let them know you have moved, or straightforward allow your Texas license to expire without renewing it. Your new state's DMV will issue you a license or ID with your new address.

Can I change my address if someone else holds my license or ID?

No, only the person whose name is on the license or ID can request an address change. If you are helping a family member or friend, they will need to make the change themselves online, by mail, or in person. If the person is unable to do so due to disability or other circumstances, contact your local DPS office to ask about alternative options.