The fastest way to change your address on your Texas driver's license
You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website without visiting an office or paying a fee. Go to the DPS website, select the driver's license address change option, enter your license number and personal details, and submit your new address. The change takes effect when ready in the system, though your physical card will still show the old address until it expires and you renew it.
If you prefer to change your address in person, you can visit any Texas DPS office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. This also costs nothing and takes about 15 minutes. A few offices offer appointments through their website, which can reduce wait time.
You do not need to change your address if you are moving out of state or if your license is expired. An expired license with an old address is still valid proof of identity in most situations, and you can update it when you renew.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Texas DPS website is free and takes a few minutes, with no office visit required.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address if you go in person.
- Your physical card keeps the old address until you renew your license, but the address in the DPS system updates right away.
- Changing your address does not cost money and does not require you to retake a photo or pass a driving test.
What you need before you start
For the online method, have your current Texas driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready. You will also need to know your new address. The online form takes about five minutes to complete.
If you are going to an office in person, bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill, credit card statement, or insurance policy also works.
You do not need to bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, or passport to change your address. You do not need to bring proof of residency if you are using the online method.
How to change your address online
Visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website and look for the "Change Address" option under driver's license services. Click on it and select "Online Address Change." You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
After you enter this information, the system will ask you to confirm your current address as it appears on your license. Then enter your new address in the fields provided. Double-check the spelling and zip code before you submit, because the system will not let you correct it after submission.
Once you submit, you will see a confirmation message on the screen. The address change is complete and shows in the DPS system when ready. You do not need to print anything or receive a confirmation email, though some people take a screenshot for their records.
Changing your address at a DPS office
Find the DPS office nearest to you on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. Some offices allow you to book an appointment online, which can cut your wait time from 30 minutes to 10 minutes. If appointments are not available, you can walk in during business hours.
Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. Hand both to the clerk and tell them you want to change your address. They will enter it into the system while you wait. The whole process takes about 15 minutes.
You will not receive a new card with the updated address. Your current card remains valid and will still show your old address. When your license expires and you renew it, the new card will have your current address printed on it.
What happens after you change your address
The Texas DPS system updates your address right away, whether you change it online or in person. This means your address is correct in the state's records and will show up correctly if a police officer runs your license during a traffic stop.
Your physical driver's license card will still display your old address until you renew your license. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person when it is within six months of expiration. At that time, you will receive a new card with your updated address printed on it.
If you move again before your license expires, you can change your address as many times as you need. There is no limit to how many address changes you can make, and each one is free.
If you cannot use the online method
The online address change works for most people, but it will not work if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. If your license is in one of these states, you must visit a DPS office in person to change your address.
You also cannot use the online method if you are changing your name at the same time. If you need to change both your name and address, you must go to a DPS office and bring documents that prove your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
If the online system rejects your information and you are not sure why, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 during business hours. They can tell you whether your license has a flag on it or whether there is a technical issue with your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Texas law requires you to notify the DPS of a new address within 30 days of moving. However, there is no penalty for not doing so, and you can still drive legally with an expired address on your card. Updating your address is important for jury duty notices, vehicle registration renewals, and official mail from the state.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No, you cannot use the online method if your license is expired. You must visit a DPS office in person. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to retake the written test and vision test as part of the renewal process, not just the address change.
Will I get a new card with my new address on it?
No, your current card will keep the old address printed on it. You will receive a new card with the updated address only when you renew your license at expiration. If you need a card with your current address sooner, you can renew your license early, but you will pay the renewal fee.
How long does it take for the address change to show up?
The change is when ready in the DPS system if you use the online method or change it in person at an office. If a police officer runs your license the same day, they will see your new address. Your physical card will still show the old address until you renew.
What if I made a mistake when I entered my new address?
If you used the online method and made a typo, you can submit another address change request right away to correct it. The system will overwrite the previous entry. If you changed your address in person at an office, ask the clerk to correct it before you leave, or return to the office and request a correction.