You can change your address online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website without visiting a driver's license office
Texas lets you update your driver's license address through the DPS website at dps.texas.gov without an appointment or office visit. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs nothing, and you'll receive your updated license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You'll need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to start.
The online system works only for address changes — not for name changes, corrections to other information, or renewals. If your license has expired or you need to change anything besides your address, you'll have to visit a driver's license office in person.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes are free and take about 10 minutes on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov.
- You need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to complete the change online.
- Your updated license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you can use your old license until the new one arrives.
- The online system handles address changes only — name changes, corrections, or renewals require an in-person visit to a driver's license office.
- If you move before your new license arrives, you can request a replacement at your new address, but this requires an office visit.
Step-by-step process for changing your address online
Start by going to the Texas DPS website and finding the "Change of Address" option under driver's license services. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will pull up your current license information on screen.
Once your identity is confirmed, you'll enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Double-check the spelling and numbers — the address on your license must match official records for things like vehicle registration and voting. After you submit the new address, you'll receive a confirmation email. Keep that email for your records, though you don't need to print it.
Your updated license will be mailed to your new address. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives. If you need to verify your address change before the new license shows up, you can print the confirmation from your email or log back into the DPS system to view your updated information.
What happens if you move before your new license arrives
If you change your address online but then move again before receiving your new license, you have two options. You can either wait for the license to arrive at your first new address and have someone forward it to you, or you can visit a driver's license office to request a replacement license with your current address. The replacement will cost a small fee — check the current amount on the DPS website, as fees change occasionally.
If you're moving out of state, you'll need to get a driver's license from your new state rather than updating your Texas license. Texas won't mail a license to an out-of-state address. Contact the driver's license agency in your new state to learn their process.
When you must visit a driver's license office instead
The online address change doesn't work if your license has expired, is suspended, or is revoked. You'll need to visit a driver's license office in person to renew it or resolve any status issues before you can update your address online. Similarly, if you need to correct information other than your address — such as your name, date of birth, or gender marker — you must go to an office.
If your license was lost or stolen, you can't use the online system. You'll need to report it to a driver's license office and explore for a replacement. Bring a government-issued ID and proof of your current address when you go.
Documents and information you'll need
Have your current Texas driver's license number ready before you start. You'll also need the last four digits of your Social Security number and access to a valid email address where you can receive the confirmation. That's all the system requires — no documents to upload, no photos, and no proof of residency.
Make sure your new address is correct before you submit it. If you make a mistake, you can log back into the system and change it again at no cost, but it's faster to get it right the first time so your license arrives correctly.
How to find your nearest driver's license office if you need one
If you can't use the online system, the DPS website has a driver's license office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code and it will show you nearby offices, their hours, and whether they're currently accepting walk-ins or require appointments. Many offices now use an online appointment system — you can reserve a time slot before you go, which usually cuts your wait time significantly.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number. Office staff can tell you exactly what documents they need when you call or check the website for your specific location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No. You must renew your license first at a driver's license office, then you can change your address online. If your license expired less than two years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online depending on your age and license type — check the DPS website for your specific situation.
How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?
The DPS typically mails updated licenses within 7 to 10 business days. Delivery time depends on your location and mail service. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can use it for identification during that time.
What if I made a mistake when I entered my new address online?
Log back into the DPS website with your driver's license number and Social Security number, and you can change your address again at no cost. Do this as soon as you notice the error so your corrected license is mailed with the right address.
Do I need to update my vehicle registration when I change my driver's license address?
Yes. Your vehicle registration should match your current address. You can update your vehicle registration online through the Texas DMV website or by mail. Check the DMV website for the current process and any fees involved.
Can I change my address online if I have a REAL ID license?
Yes. The online address change works for all Texas driver's licenses, including REAL ID licenses. Your updated license will have the same REAL ID status as your current license.