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. You can do this online without visiting an office, and the change takes effect when ready in the DPS system for most purposes. If you prefer to handle it in person or by mail, both options are available, though they take longer.
Texas does not require you to renew your license when you move. You only need to update the address on your existing license. The method you choose depends on whether you have internet access, how quickly you need the change processed, and whether you want a physical updated license card mailed to you. The address change itself is always free — you only pay if you want a new card printed with your updated address.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the DPS website is the fastest option and costs nothing if you do not request a replacement card.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to change your address online.
- If you want a new physical license card mailed to you with the updated address, you must pay a replacement fee of $11 and wait two to three weeks.
- In-person changes at a DPS office take about 30 minutes and allow you to receive a temporary license on the spot if you pay the replacement fee.
- By-mail changes require you to complete a form, include a copy of your new address proof, and wait four to six weeks for processing.
Changing your address online through the DPS website
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the option to change your address. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity using this information before allowing you to proceed.
Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of residency document. Texas accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements as proof of your new address. You do not upload the document during the online process — you only need it on hand to reference the correct spelling and format so you enter it accurately.
Once you submit the change, your address updates in the DPS system when ready. You can use this updated address for most purposes right away. However, if you want a new physical license card mailed to you with the updated address printed on it, you must pay an $11 replacement fee during the online process. Without paying this fee, your old card remains valid but shows your old address.
Getting a replacement card by mail after changing your address
If you paid the $11 replacement fee during your online address change, DPS will mail you a new license card within two to three weeks. The card will arrive at your new address if you provided it correctly. Check your confirmation email for a tracking number if one was provided, and save that confirmation number in case you need to follow up.
Do not discard your old license until the new one arrives. If the new card does not arrive within four weeks, contact the DPS to request a status update. You will need your driver's license number and the confirmation number from your online submission to check on your card's status.
Changing your address in person at a DPS office
Visit any DPS Driver License office in Texas with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring an original or certified copy of your proof document — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. The address on the document must match the address you want to register, and your name on the document should match your license.
Tell the clerk you want to change your address. If you also want a replacement card printed on the spot, you must pay the $11 fee. DPS will issue you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent card is mailed to you. The permanent card arrives in two to three weeks at your new address.
If you do not pay the replacement fee, your address updates in the system but you keep your old card. The change takes effect when ready for most purposes, though your physical card will still show the old address. This option works if you straightforward need the DPS system to reflect your new address but do not need a card that shows it.
Changing your address by mail
read the Address Change form (Form DL-43) from the Texas DPS website. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Make a copy of your proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement — and include it with your form.
Mail both documents to the address listed on the form. Processing takes four to six weeks. You will not receive a new card unless you pay the replacement fee, which you can include as a check or money order. If you include the $11 fee, DPS will mail you a new card with your updated address to your new location.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within six weeks, contact the DPS to confirm receipt of your submission and ask for a status update on your address change.
What counts as proof of your new address
Texas accepts several documents as proof of residency. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days works. A lease agreement or mortgage statement with your name and new address also works. Bank statements, credit card statements, and government mail addressed to you at your new address are acceptable as well.
The document must show your full name and your complete new address. If your name on the document does not match your license exactly, bring additional identification that shows both names — for example, a marriage certificate or court order if you recently changed your name. This helps the DPS clerk verify that you are the person on the license.
Do not bring a document that is more than 60 days old unless it is a lease or mortgage, which can be older. If you just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or bank statement at your new address, a lease agreement or mortgage document is your best option since those documents are typically dated when you signed them.
Timeline and costs for each method
| Method | Cost for address change only | Cost for new card | Processing time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Free | $11 | when ready (card arrives in 2–3 weeks if ordered) |
| In person at DPS office | Free | $11 | when ready (card arrives in 2–3 weeks if ordered) |
| By mail | Free | $11 | 4–6 weeks |
The address change itself is always free regardless of which method you choose. You only pay if you want a new physical card mailed to you with the updated address printed on it. If you change your address online or in person without ordering a new card, the change takes effect when ready in the DPS system, and you can use your old card with the understanding that it shows your old address.
Choose the online method if you want the fastest update with no office visit. Choose in-person if you want a temporary card when ready and do not mind waiting for the permanent one. Choose by-mail if you do not have internet access or prefer not to visit an office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Texas law does not require you to update your address within a specific timeframe. However, it is a good idea to update it within a reasonable time after you move. Your license remains valid even if the address is outdated, but you may face questions if you are pulled over or use it for identification purposes.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You can update the address in the DPS system online or by mail even if your license is expired. However, if you want a new card, you will need to renew your license at the same time, which costs more than just a replacement. Visit a DPS office or check the website for renewal requirements if your license has been expired for more than two years.
What if I move before my new card arrives?
Contact the DPS when ready with your new address. You can submit another address change online or call the DPS to update your mailing address for the card that is already in the mail. Provide your driver's license number and confirmation number from your original submission so they can locate your order.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No. You must change your address yourself online, in person, or by signing the mail form. A family member or representative cannot do it on your behalf, even with your permission. If you are unable to visit an office or access the internet, the by-mail option is your only choice.
Will my old card still work after I change my address?
Yes. Your old card remains valid for identification purposes even after you change your address in the system. The address on the card will be outdated, but the license itself does not expire just because you moved. If you want a card that shows your new address, you must order a replacement card and pay the $11 fee.