How to Change Your Address on a Texas Driver's License

You can change your address on a Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The online method is fastest and costs nothing. If you choose to mail or visit in person, you will need to provide proof of your new address and your current license.

Texas does not require you to renew your license when you move — you can update just the address. The address change itself does not extend or shorten your license expiration date. Your license remains valid at your old address until you update it, so there is no urgent important date, but updating within a reasonable time keeps your license current for traffic stops, voting registration, and other identification needs.

Key Takeaways

The online address change through the DPS website is free and takes minutes, and you receive confirmation when ready.
You must have your current Texas driver's license number and a valid email address to change your address online.
If you mail or visit in person, you need proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days) and your current license.
Mail processing takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your request, while in-person changes are completed the same day.
Your license expiration date does not change when you update your address — only the physical address on the card is updated.

Changing Your Address Online Through DPS

The online method is the fastest and most convenient option. Go to the Texas DPS website and select the address change option under driver's license services. You will need your current Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also need a valid email address where DPS can send your confirmation.

Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. DPS will verify your information against their records. If everything matches, you will receive an when ready confirmation email. Your address change takes effect right away in the DPS system, though the physical card in your wallet still shows your old address until it expires or you renew it for other reasons.

This method works only if your license is not expired and your personal information (name, date of birth) has not changed. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal action, you must use the mail or in-person method instead.

Changing Your Address by Mail

To change your address by mail, read the DL-43 form from the Texas DPS website or request it by phone at 1-888-589-6789. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and your signature. You do not need to sign the form in front of a notary.

Include one document that proves your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government-issued mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card). The document must show your name and new address and be dated within 90 days of when you mail it. Make a copy for your records.

Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the DL-43 form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your request. There is no fee for an address change by mail. You will not receive a new physical card — your address change is recorded in the DPS system, and your current license remains valid.

Changing Your Address In Person at a DPS Office

Visit any DPS driver's license office in Texas with your current license and one document proving your new address. The same documents accepted by mail are accepted in person: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government-issued mail dated within 90 days.

Bring your current license and the address proof document. You do not need to fill out a form beforehand — staff will update your information on the spot. The change is completed when ready, and you will receive a receipt. Your physical license still shows your old address, but the DPS system reflects your new address right away.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering limited Saturday hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

DPS accepts documents that show your name and new address and are dated within 90 days of when you submit them. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement works if it shows your name and address. Property tax bills and government mail (tax returns, voter registration cards, court documents) are also acceptable.

Documents that do not count include credit card statements, bank statements, insurance policies, or letters from employers. The document must be an official record tied to your residence, not a general financial or employment document. If you are moving into a new home and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and address.

Timeline and Fees

Online address changes take effect when ready and cost nothing. In-person changes at a DPS office are completed the same day at no cost. Mail requests take 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your form and proof of address, also at no cost.

There is never a fee for changing your address on a Texas driver's license. If a website or service charges you to change your address, it is not affiliated with the Texas DPS. Always use the official DPS website (dps.texas.gov) or visit a DPS office directly.

What Happens to Your Physical License Card

Your current license card will continue to show your old address even after you update it in the DPS system. You do not receive a new card just for an address change. The card remains valid for identification and driving purposes.

If you want a card that shows your new address, you must renew your license. Renewals happen every 8 years for most drivers (5 years if you are over 85). When you renew, you can request a new card with your current address printed on it. Until then, your DPS record shows the new address, but the physical card does not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my Texas driver's license when I move?

No, there is no legal requirement to update your address. However, keeping your address current helps with traffic stops, voter registration, and official identification. Some agencies may send mail to the address on file, so updating it prevents delays.

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

No, the online method works only for valid licenses. If your license is expired, you must renew it before you can change the address online, or you can use the mail or in-person method to change the address on an expired license.

What if I moved but do not have a utility bill or lease yet?

Ask your landlord, property manager, or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. This letter counts as proof of address if it shows your name and address and is dated within 90 days.

Will changing my address extend my license expiration date?

No, your expiration date stays the same. An address change updates only the address in the DPS system and on your physical card when you renew — it does not add time to your license.

How do I find the DPS office nearest me?

Visit dps.texas.gov and use the office locator tool. You can search by city or ZIP code to find the nearest location, see hours, and check current wait times before you visit.

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.