How to Update Your Vehicle Registration Address in Texas

You can update your Texas vehicle registration address online, by mail, or in person at your local county tax assessor-collector's office

Texas does not require you to update your vehicle registration address when ready when you move, but doing so keeps your registration current and ensures you receive renewal notices and other correspondence at the correct location. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows you to change your address through three main routes: the online system, a paper form submitted by mail, or a visit to your county tax assessor-collector's office. Each method takes different amounts of time and requires different documents.

Your vehicle registration and your driver's license address do not have to match, but keeping both current reduces confusion with law enforcement and helps may support you receive important notices. If you have moved and your registration still shows an old address, you can update it without renewing your registration early — the change takes effect when ready and carries through to your next renewal.

Key Takeaways

The fastest way to update your address is through the Texas DMV online portal at txdps.texas.gov, which processes changes within one business day.
You can mail Form VTR-130 (Address Change) to your county tax assessor-collector's office, though processing typically takes two to three weeks.
Visiting your county tax assessor-collector's office in person allows you to update your address the same day and confirm the change when ready.
You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and current registration to make the change through any method.

Updating your address online through the Texas DMV portal

The online method is the fastest option for most people. Go to txdps.texas.gov, select the vehicle registration section, and look for the address change option. You will need your VIN, license plate number, and the registration renewal date from your current registration card. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your identity.

Online changes are processed within one business day, and you will receive a confirmation email. You do not need to print anything or visit an office. This method works only if your registration is current and not suspended or revoked. If your registration has expired or is in a problem status, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.

Mailing Form VTR-130 to your county tax assessor-collector

If you prefer to update by mail, read or request Form VTR-130 (Address Change) from the Texas DMV website or your county tax assessor-collector's office. Fill in your current registration information, your new address, and your VIN. Sign the form and mail it to your county tax assessor-collector's office — the address appears on your registration card or on the county's website.

Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. Include a copy of your registration card if possible, though it is not required. You will not receive a new registration card in the mail; the address change is recorded in the system and takes effect when ready. Your next renewal notice will arrive at your new address.

Visiting your county tax assessor-collector's office in person

Your county tax assessor-collector's office handles vehicle registration for your county. Bring your current registration card, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and a valid photo ID. The office will update your address in the system while you wait, and you can leave with confirmation that the change is complete.

Processing times vary by office, but most handle address changes within 30 minutes to an hour during normal business hours. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but calling ahead to confirm hours and current wait times is a good idea. If you are updating your address at the same time you renew your registration, you can do both in one visit.

What documents and information you will need

Regardless of which method you choose, have the following information ready: your vehicle identification number (VIN), your current license plate number, and your registration renewal date. These appear on your registration card. You will also need your new address and, if updating in person, proof that you live at that address.

Proof of address typically means a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your name and new address, dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license with your new address also works. If you are updating by mail or online, you do not need to submit proof of address — the system accepts your word — but keep documentation in case questions arise later.

Timing and what happens after you update

An address change does not affect your registration expiration date or renewal fee. Your registration remains valid until the date printed on your current card. Your next renewal notice will arrive at your new address, and the updated address will appear on your next registration card after renewal.

If you move before your registration expires and do not update the address, you may not receive your renewal notice on time. This can lead to an expired registration, which carries a fine if you are stopped by law enforcement. Updating your address before or shortly after moving prevents this problem and ensures you stay on top of renewal important date.

Finding your county tax assessor-collector's office

Each Texas county has its own tax assessor-collector's office that handles vehicle registration. Search online for "[your county name] tax assessor-collector" to find the office address, phone number, and hours. Most offices are located in the county courthouse or a nearby government building. You can also call your county's main government line and ask for the tax assessor-collector's vehicle registration department.

Some larger counties have multiple offices or satellite locations. If you live far from the main office, check whether a closer location handles address changes. Many offices also offer online portals or phone lines for questions about your registration status before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my registration address when I move?

Texas law does not require you to update your registration address when ready, but it is a good idea to do so. An outdated address can cause you to miss renewal notices and may complicate interactions with law enforcement. Updating is free and takes only a few minutes.

Can I update my address if my registration is expired?

If your registration is expired, you cannot use the online system. You will need to renew your registration first, either in person or by mail, and then update your address. Some county offices allow you to renew and update your address in a single visit.

Will I get a new registration card when I change my address?

No. Your current registration card remains valid until your renewal date. The address change is recorded in the system, and your new address will appear on the registration card you receive after you renew. You do not need to request a new card.

How long does it take to update my address online?

Online changes are processed within one business day, and you will receive a confirmation email. The change takes effect when ready in the system, even though the confirmation may arrive the next day.

What if I move out of state?

If you move to another state, you will eventually need to register your vehicle in that state. Texas does not require you to cancel your registration, but you should register your vehicle in your new state according to that state's rules. Contact your new state's DMV for guidance on timing and requirements.

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.