Choose the Right Update Method
The right method for updating your Texas address depends on your citizenship status, license type, expiration status, and whether you need to update other information, so you can choose which method fits your situation:
- Online (TxT or Texas.gov)
- Best for: U.S. citizens holding an unexpired adult license
- Processing time: Temporary paper license; card arrives in 2–3 weeks
- In-person at DPS office
- Best for: Non-U.S. citizens, CDL holders, or drivers updating their photo or legal name
- Processing time: Temporary paper license; card arrives in 2–3 weeks
- By mail
- Best for: Eligible drivers who lack online access or prefer the in-person option
- Processing time: 3–4 weeks (includes transit time)
Has your Texas license been expired for more than 2 years?
If so, you cannot perform a standard address change or renewal. Texas requires long-expired license holders to apply as new drivers. This means taking the written test and road test again.
What to do next depending on your age:
- If you are ages 18–24: Texas law requires you to complete an approved 6-hour Adult Driver Education course before you can take your tests.
- If you are 25 or older: Driver’s ed isn't legally required, but taking an online course allows you to complete the written exam at home so you can skip the written test line at the DPS office.
If you need to complete a course or want to take the written test online in advance, state-approved options like the NextDoorDriving Texas Adult Driver’s Ed Course (TDLR License C3424) satisfy this requirement:
- 100% online and self-paced: Complete the 6-hour material in one sitting or split it up as needed.
- Official written test included: Take and pass the knowledge exam at home to receive your official DPS test waiver.
Address Change vs. New Texas License
A routine driver’s license change of address applies when you already hold a Texas license and move within the state. New residents must apply for an original Texas Driver License and surrender their out-of-state license. This exchange must be done in person at a DPS office and within 90 days of establishing Texas residency. At your appointment, you must submit an application for a Texas Driver License (Form DL-14A), surrender your current license, and provide proof of Texas vehicle registration, insurance, identity, and residency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Per Texas law, you must update your address on your driver license within 30 days of moving to a new residence. Once you know which method you can use to update your address, follow these steps to make the change.
Updating Your Texas Address Online
You can update your address online in the following cases:
- You are a U.S. citizen holding a valid, unexpired, non-commercial Texas license or state ID.
- Your Social Security Number is on file with the DPS.
- You are not seeking to update your photo or legal name.
Note that a provisional license may be updated online, but a learner’s permit must be changed in person.
For eligible drivers, changing an address online is usually the easiest option because it eliminates the need for a DPS office visit and provides immediate access to a temporary license.
To update your Texas license address online:
- Visit the driver services portal at TxT or Texas.gov.
- Log in and verify your identity using your driver license number, date of birth, last four digits of your SSN, and the 20-digit audit number from your license.
- Enter your new Texas physical street address (and secondary mailing address, if applicable).
- Check the opt-in box if you want to update your voter registration address at the same time.
- Pay the $11.00 fee using an accepted credit or debit card.
- Download and print your temporary paper license; this is valid for 60 days while your new card is manufactured and mailed.
Changing Your Address at a DPS Office
You must schedule an appointment and visit a local DPS driver license office to change your address in the following cases:
- You hold a commercial license (CDL).
- You are not a U.S. citizen.
- Your current license is expired or suspended.
- You hold a Learner License (learner’s permit).
- You wish to update your photograph or legal name at the same time.
- You are requesting a protected alternate address.
If you need or choose to visit a DPS driver license office, follow these steps:
- Book an appointment online using the Texas DPS Appointment Scheduler.
- Gather your documents, including your current Texas license and two printed, original documents proving your new residential address.
- Complete an application (Form DL-14A - Application for Texas Driver License or Identification Card). Present your credentials, submit thumbprints, and pay the $11.00 license replacement fee.
- Receive your temporary paper license, which is valid for 60 days. Your new physical card will arrive by mail in 2 to 3 weeks.
Changing Your Texas Address by Mail
You can update your address by mail if you meet the following conditions:
- You are at least 18 years old.
- You are a U.S. citizen.
- You hold a valid, unexpired, non-commercial license.
- You have a Social Security Number on file at the DPS.
Address changes by mail are not permitted for provisional licenses or learner’s permits.
If you prefer to submit your request by mail, you must complete and send an Application for Change of Address to the DPS. Follow these instructions:
- Download the application (Form DL-64 - Texas Driver License / Identification Card Change of Address Certificate) from the DPS website.
- Fill out your personal identity information, driver license number, Social Security Number, and new residential or mailing address.
- Enclose a check or money order for $10.00 payable to “Texas Department of Public Safety.” Do not send cash.
- Send your signed application and fee to:
Texas Department of Public Safety
P.O. Box 149008
Austin, TX 78714-9008
Documents for an Address Update
The documents required to change the address on a Texas driver’s license depend on the transaction, but as a baseline, you must present two printed documents verifying your new physical Texas address. Both documents must clearly show your full legal name and current street address.
Acceptable proofs of Texas residency include:
- Current deed, mortgage statement, or residential rental agreement.
- Utility or residential service bill dated within 180 days (electric, water, gas, internet, cable, or cell phone).
- Valid, unexpired Texas voter registration card, motor vehicle registration, or vehicle title.
- Current homeowner’s, renter’s, or automobile insurance policy or statement.
- Pre-printed paycheck stub or bank statement dated within 180 days.
- W-2, 1099, or 1098 tax form from the most recent tax year.
Can I Update My Texas Driver’s License Address Without Bills in My Name?
If you live with someone and cannot provide two residency documents in your own name, you can submit a completed Form DL-5 - Texas Residency Affidavit. The person you live with must accompany you to the DPS office, present their valid Texas driver’s license or state ID, sign the affidavit in person, and provide two proofs of Texas residency in their name.
Fees
Address change fees depend on the submission method and your verification needs:
The current address change fees are:
- Online or in-person replacement fee: $11.00
- Mail-in replacement fee: $10.00
Special Situations
Depending on your career, living situation, or personal safety needs, Texas may make exceptions to standard license changes. If you are updating a CDL, have out-of-state military orders, or qualify for an alternate or confidential address, you may follow a different process.
Commercial Driver License Holders
Federal and state standards prevent Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders from updating license addresses online or by mail. CDL address changes must be done in person at a DPS office. Like non-commercial licenses, you must present two valid proofs of the new Texas address at this appointment.
Active-Duty Military Personnel
Active-duty military members stationed out of state may update their license address while maintaining Texas residency. For a standard Texas address change, you may use the regular online or mail-in process. To have an out-of-state address printed on a Texas license, you will typically use a separate packet: Form DL-16P - Out-of-State or Out-of-Country Renewal/Replacement/Change of Texas Driver License or Identification Card. This option is limited to active-duty service members and their dependents.
Protected and Confidential Address Options
Certain individuals may use an alternate or confidential address on a Texas driver’s license, including eligible peace officers, judges, prosecutors, investigators, court personnel, and participants in the Texas Address Confidentiality Program. These applicants must apply in person and provide documentation showing that they qualify. This type of address change cannot be completed through the standard online or mail-in process.
FAQs
Does updating my driver’s license address also update my vehicle registration?
Updating your address on your Texas drivers license does not automatically update your vehicle registration records. Vehicle registration is managed separately by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV).
What happens if I do not update my address within 30 days?
Failing to notify the DPS within 30 days of a move violates Texas Transportation Code § 521.054 and is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by a fine up to $200. If official correspondence—including renewal notices, administrative warnings, and court notices—goes to your old address, it can lead to missed deadlines or even license suspension.
Can I use a P.O. Box as my primary address?
The main address printed on the front of your Texas driver’s license must be your physical street address. However, you may list a P.O. Box as a secondary mailing address to receive state mailings.
Does changing my address extend my license expiration date?
Requesting an address change generates a duplicate replacement card containing your new address. The expiration date on your replacement license will remain identical to your original card. If your license is nearing its expiration date, you should complete a full drivers license renewal instead.
Does filing mail forwarding with USPS automatically update my Texas driver's license address?
Filing a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not notify the DPS or update your driver license records. While mail forwarding will redirect some of your mail temporarily, you must update your license address directly with the DPS.
Will changing my address upgrade my license card to a REAL ID?
If your previous Texas license was already REAL ID-compliant, your replacement card will be, too. If your current license is non-compliant, updating it online will not issue a REAL ID card. You must visit a DPS office in person with adequate proof of citizenship and residency to obtain a REAL ID license. To check if your license is a REAL ID, look for a black or gold star in the upper right corner. If it has a star, it is a REAL ID.Updating the Name or Address on a Texas License or ID — Texas DPS
