Yes, you can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety
Texas allows you to update your address on your driver's license or ID card through the DPS website without visiting a driver's license office. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to complete the transaction online.
The online system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Once you submit your address change, the DPS mails you a replacement card with your new address printed on it. The card arrives within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though processing can take longer during peak periods.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online at the Texas DPS website without paying a fee or visiting an office in person.
- You need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to start the process.
- Your replacement card with the new address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- If you need to change your address and renew your license at the same time, you must do both transactions separately online or visit an office.
- Your old license remains valid for driving until the replacement arrives, even though it shows the outdated address.
Step-by-step process for changing your address online
Go to the Texas DPS website and locate the "Change of Address" option under the driver's license services section. You will be directed to a find form where you enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system verifies your identity using this information.
Once verified, you will enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your replacement card. Double-check the spelling of your street name, city, and ZIP code before submitting. After you confirm the new address, the system asks for an email address where the DPS can send you a confirmation receipt.
Review the summary screen carefully. This is your final note to correct any errors before the transaction is final. Once you submit, the DPS processes your request and mails your replacement card to the address you provided. You will receive an email confirmation with a reference number you can use to track your card's status.
What happens to your old license while you wait for the replacement
Your current driver's license remains valid for driving and identification purposes until your replacement card arrives. You do not need to stop using it or carry both cards. The address on your old license does not affect your ability to drive legally.
If you need to show proof of your new address before the replacement card arrives, bring your confirmation email from the DPS along with a piece of mail showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. Most organizations will accept this combination as proof of your current address.
When you cannot change your address online
If your driver's license has expired, you cannot use the online address change system. You must renew your license in person at a driver's license office, and you can update your address at the same time. Similarly, if your license was suspended or revoked, you will need to visit an office to handle the address change.
If you are changing your name at the same time as your address, the online system will not process both changes together. You must visit a driver's license office in person to change your name, and you can update your address during that visit. The office will issue you a new card with both the new name and new address.
If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot change your address online. CDL holders must visit a driver's license office to update their address. The same applies if you hold a hazmat endorsement on your license.
Fees and what you receive
There is no fee to change your address online. The DPS sends you a replacement card at no cost. You will receive one card in the mail showing your new address.
If you need your card faster than the standard 7 to 10 business days, you can visit a driver's license office in person and request expedited service. Expedited replacement cards cost extra and are issued on the spot, but this option is only available at an office, not online.
Tracking your replacement card
After you submit your address change online, save the confirmation email the DPS sends you. This email contains a reference number that you can use to check the status of your replacement card on the Texas DPS website. The tracking system updates as your card moves through processing and shipping.
If your replacement card does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DPS using the reference number from your confirmation email. Have your driver's license number and the email address you used for the transaction ready when you call.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not enter your address in all capital letters or with unusual punctuation. The DPS system prints your address exactly as you type it, so use standard capitalization and spacing. If you make a mistake, you cannot edit the address after submission—you will need to submit another address change request, which means waiting for a second replacement card.
Do not assume your address has been changed if you only received a confirmation email. The confirmation email means your request was received, but your address is not officially changed until the replacement card arrives. Until then, your old license with the old address is still your official ID.
Do not use a P.O. box as your mailing address if you want the card sent to a physical location. The DPS will not mail replacement cards to P.O. boxes. If you are moving and do not yet have a permanent address, use a friend's or family member's address temporarily, then submit another address change once you are settled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I entered my address wrong and already submitted it online?
You cannot edit an address after submission. You will need to submit another address change request with the correct address. This means you will receive two replacement cards in the mail—one with the incorrect address and one with the correct address. Use the correct card and discard the other.
Can I change my address online if I just got my license renewed?
Yes. You can change your address online at any time, even if you recently renewed your license. The DPS will mail you a replacement card with the new address. If you renewed your license and moved within a few days, it may be faster to submit the address change online rather than visiting an office.
Do I need to change my address with the DPS if I already changed it with my insurance company?
Yes. Changing your address with your insurance company does not update your address with the Texas DPS. You must submit a separate address change through the DPS website or at a driver's license office. Your driver's license address and your insurance address are separate records.
Will my replacement card have the same license number as my old one?
Yes. Your replacement card will have the same driver's license number, expiration date, and all other information as your current license. Only the address will change. You do not need to update your number anywhere.
What if I move again before my replacement card arrives?
Submit another address change request with your new address. The DPS will send the replacement card to whichever address you provided most recently. If you submit multiple address changes in a short time, only the last one will be used for mailing your card.