You can change your Texas driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office

The fastest way is online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if your address change is recent and you have no other updates to make. The online method takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. If you need to change your name, renew an expired license, or correct other information at the same time, you will need to visit a DPS office in person or mail in a form.

Texas does not require you to update your driver's license address within a specific timeframe, but doing so keeps your record accurate for traffic stops, vehicle registration, and mail from the state. Your vehicle registration address should match your license address to avoid confusion during enforcement.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Texas DPS website is free and takes about 10 minutes if you have no other updates to your license.
  • You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change your address online.
  • If you are also renewing your license, changing your name, or correcting other information, you must visit a DPS office in person or mail in Form DL-43.
  • In-person visits at a DPS office require an appointment, which you can book through the Texas DPS website.
  • Mail-in address changes take two to three weeks and require Form DL-43, a copy of your license, and proof of your new address.

Changing your address online through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity and process the change when ready.

This method works only if you are not renewing your license, changing your name, or making other updates at the same time. Once the change is complete, you will receive a confirmation number. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to pay a fee for an address-only change.

Keep the confirmation number in case you need to reference the change later. If the online system rejects your information, it usually means your record does not match what is in the DPS database — in that case, you will need to visit an office in person or mail in a form.

Visiting a DPS office in person

If you want to change your address and renew your license, change your name, or correct other information at the same time, you must visit a DPS office. Book an appointment through the Texas DPS website rather than walking in, as most offices now require them and wait times are shorter with a reservation.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you are also renewing your license, bring proof of Texas residency and your Social Security card.

The office will process your address change on the spot. If you are renewing your license at the same time, you will pay the renewal fee (currently $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license, though fees may vary). Your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Mailing in your address change with Form DL-43

read Form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card) from the Texas DPS website. Fill in your new address, sign the form, and include a copy of your current driver's license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days).

Mail the completed form and documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. Once approved, your updated license will be mailed to your new address. There is no fee for a mail-in address-only change.

Keep a copy of everything you send in case the DPS needs to contact you about missing information. If your mail gets lost, you will not have proof that you sent it, so consider using certified mail if you want a receipt.

What counts as proof of your new address

The Texas DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or insurance policy dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your new address. A bank statement or credit card statement also works if it is dated within the last 60 days.

If you do not have any of these documents, you can bring a letter from your employer on company letterhead showing your name and new address, or a government document such as a voter registration card. Ask the DPS office or check the website if you are unsure whether your document will be accepted.

Updating your vehicle registration to match your new address

Once you change your driver's license address, you should also update your vehicle registration address with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can do this online through the Texas DMV website, by mail, or in person at a county tax assessor's office.

The online method is fastest and costs nothing for an address-only change. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and your current registration number. If you mail in the change, send a copy of your registration and proof of your new address to your county tax assessor's office. Processing takes one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my updated license after I change my address?

If you change your address online or in person at a DPS office, your updated license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. If you mail in Form DL-43, processing takes two to three weeks, and then the license is mailed to your new address.

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Texas does not require you to update your driver's license address by a specific date, but it is a good idea to do so. An outdated address can cause problems during traffic stops, when renewing your registration, or if the state needs to contact you. Your vehicle registration should match your license address.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

If your license is expired, you cannot change your address online. You must visit a DPS office in person or mail in Form DL-43. At the office, you can renew your license and change your address at the same time. You will pay the renewal fee in addition to any other charges.

What if I do not have proof of my new address?

If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, bring a letter from your employer on company letterhead, a voter registration card, or another government document showing your new address. Ask the DPS office what documents they accept if you are unsure.

Will my old license still work after I request an address change?

Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. Once your updated license is mailed, the old one is no longer official, but you can use it as a backup form of identification until the new one arrives. Destroy the old license once you receive the new one.