How to Change Your Address on a Texas Driver’s License: A Complete Guide

Changing your address is a common task, but it’s crucial to update official documents like your driver’s license promptly. In Texas, you have a legal obligation to notify the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) of any address change within 30 days. Failing to do so can result in fines and other inconveniences. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of updating your address on your Texas driver’s license, covering online methods, in-person visits, and frequently asked questions.

## Why Update Your Address?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why keeping your address current is so important:

* **Legal Requirement:** Texas law mandates that you notify the DPS of an address change within 30 days. Ignorance of the law is no excuse and will result in fines if caught.
* **Official Communication:** The DPS uses your address to send important notices, such as renewal reminders, license suspension notifications, and other critical information related to your driving privileges. Missing these notices can lead to further complications.
* **Vehicle Registration:** Your driver’s license address is often linked to your vehicle registration. An outdated address can cause issues with registration renewals, inspection notices, and other vehicle-related matters.
* **Voting:** In Texas, your driver’s license or personal identification card can be used as acceptable identification for voting. Maintaining an up-to-date address ensures that your voter registration information is accurate.
* **Law Enforcement:** In the event of an emergency or interaction with law enforcement, an accurate address on your driver’s license assists officers in verifying your identity and contacting you or your emergency contacts.

## Methods for Changing Your Address

The Texas DPS offers several convenient methods for updating your address:

* **Online:** The easiest and fastest method for many people. The DPS Online Driver License Address Change system is available 24/7.
* **In-Person:** Visiting a local DPS office or driver license mega center provides direct assistance from DPS staff.
* **By Mail:** While less common, this option is available for individuals temporarily residing out-of-state.

Let’s explore each of these methods in detail.

## Changing Your Address Online

The online method is generally the most convenient option, allowing you to update your address from the comfort of your home. However, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria to use the online system. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

**1. Eligibility Requirements:**

Before proceeding, ensure you meet the following criteria:

* **Valid Texas Driver’s License:** You must possess a valid, unexpired Texas driver’s license, learner license, or identification card.
* **U.S. Citizen or Legal Resident:** You must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with proper documentation.
* **No Outstanding Suspensions or Revocations:** Your driving privileges must not be suspended, revoked, or canceled.
* **No Changes to Name, Date of Birth, or Other Personal Information:** The online system is solely for address changes. If you need to update other information, you must visit a DPS office in person.
* **Current Address on File:** You must already have an address on file with the DPS. If this is your first time obtaining a Texas driver’s license, you cannot use the online system for initial address entry.
* **No Commercial Driver’s License (CDL):** Individuals with a CDL must update their address in person.

**2. Gather Required Information:**

Before accessing the online system, collect the following information:

* **Texas Driver’s License Number or Identification Card Number:** This is the unique number printed on your license or ID card.
* **Date of Birth:** Ensure you have your correct date of birth readily available.
* **Social Security Number (SSN):** You will need to provide your SSN for verification purposes.
* **Old Address:** Have your previous address ready.
* **New Address:** Have your new physical address and mailing address (if different) ready.

**3. Access the DPS Online Address Change System:**

* Visit the official Texas DPS website: Navigate to the Texas Department of Public Safety website ([https://www.dps.texas.gov/](https://www.dps.texas.gov/)).
* Search for “Change Address Online”: Use the website’s search function to find the “Online Driver License Address Change” page or look for it under the “Driver License Services” section. A direct link is often available, but website structures can change.
* **Important Note**: Always ensure that the URL is a valid dps.texas.gov domain to avoid phishing scams.

**4. Verify Your Identity:**

* Enter Required Information: Accurately enter your driver’s license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN) as prompted. Ensure that the information entered matches the information on file with the DPS. Any discrepancies can cause the process to fail.

**5. Enter Your New Address:**

* Carefully enter your new physical address, including the street number, street name, apartment or unit number (if applicable), city, state, and zip code. Double-check for accuracy to avoid potential issues with mail delivery and official correspondence.
* If your mailing address differs from your physical address, provide your mailing address as well.

**6. Review and Confirm:**

* Review the information you have entered carefully to ensure that it is accurate and complete. Verify your driver’s license number, date of birth, Social Security Number (last 4 digits), old address, and new address. Any errors can cause delays or complications.

**7. Submit Your Address Change:**

* Once you have reviewed and confirmed your information, submit your address change request. The system may display a confirmation message or provide a reference number for your records.

**8. Print Confirmation (Optional):**

* Although not mandatory, it is advisable to print or save a copy of the confirmation page or reference number for your records. This can serve as proof that you have updated your address with the DPS.

**9. Wait for Updated License (Optional):**

* In most cases, you will **not** receive a new physical driver’s license card reflecting your updated address when changing your address online. The DPS will update your record electronically, and law enforcement officials can access your current address through their databases.
* However, if you *require* a physical driver’s license card with your updated address, you will need to request a duplicate license, which typically involves a fee. This can be done online or in person.

## Changing Your Address In Person

If you prefer to update your address in person or if you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the online system, you can visit a local DPS office or driver license mega center. Here’s how:

**1. Find a DPS Office:**

* Use the DPS website to locate the nearest DPS office or driver license mega center. The DPS website has an office locator tool that allows you to search for offices based on your location. Be sure to check the office hours and days of operation before visiting, as some offices may have limited hours or be closed on certain days.

**2. Schedule an Appointment (Recommended):**

* To avoid long wait times, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment online before visiting a DPS office. The DPS website allows you to schedule appointments for various services, including address changes. Scheduling an appointment can save you a significant amount of time and ensure that you are seen promptly.
* Walk-ins are generally accepted, but be prepared for potentially long waits.

**3. Gather Required Documents:**

* Bring the following documents with you to the DPS office:
* **Texas Driver’s License:** Your original Texas driver’s license, learner license, or identification card.
* **Proof of Identity:** Documents proving your identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or permanent resident card. (Usually not required *solely* for an address change, but always good to have).
* **Proof of Social Security Number (SSN):** Your Social Security card or a document that displays your SSN, such as a W-2 form or pay stub. (Again, usually not required for address change alone).
* **Proof of Texas Residency (Two Documents):** You must provide two acceptable documents to prove your Texas residency. These documents must display your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents include:
* Current utility bill (water, electricity, gas)
* Bank statement
* Insurance policy (home or auto)
* Lease agreement
* Mortgage statement
* Official mail from a government agency

**4. Complete the Application Form:**

* Upon arrival at the DPS office, you may be required to complete an application form for an address change. The form will ask for your personal information, including your name, driver’s license number, date of birth, old address, and new address. Be sure to complete the form accurately and legibly.

**5. Submit Your Documents and Application:**

* Submit your completed application form, along with the required documents, to the DPS staff member at the counter. The staff member will review your documents and verify your information. Be prepared to answer any questions that the staff member may have.

**6. Pay the Fee (If Applicable):**

* In most cases, there is no fee to change your address on your driver’s license. However, if you request a duplicate license card with your updated address, you will be required to pay a fee. The fee for a duplicate license varies, so be sure to check the DPS website for the current fee schedule.

**7. Receive Confirmation:**

* Once your address change has been processed, the DPS staff member will provide you with a confirmation receipt or document. Keep this confirmation for your records.

**8. Receive Updated License (If Requested):**

* If you requested a duplicate license card with your updated address, it will typically be mailed to your new address within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can use the confirmation receipt as proof that you have updated your address with the DPS.

## Changing Your Address By Mail

This method is primarily for individuals who are temporarily residing out of state. If you’re in Texas, it’s generally easier to change your address online or in person.

**1. Eligibility:** This method is suitable if you are temporarily living outside of Texas but intend to return.

**2. Required Documents:**

* A written request including your full name, Texas driver’s license number, date of birth, old address, new out-of-state address, and your signature.
* A copy of your Texas driver’s license (front and back).

**3. Mailing Address:**

Mail your request and copy of your driver’s license to:

Texas Department of Public Safety
Driver License Division
PO Box 149008
Austin, TX 78714-9008

**4. Important Considerations:**

* This method only updates your address in the DPS system. You will **not** receive a new driver’s license card with the out-of-state address.
* If you want to renew your license while out of state, you will need to meet specific renewal requirements, which may involve providing additional documentation.

## Consequences of Not Updating Your Address

Failing to update your address with the Texas DPS within 30 days of moving can have several negative consequences:

* **Fines:** You may be subject to fines if you are stopped by law enforcement and your driver’s license reflects an outdated address.
* **Missed Notices:** You may miss important notices from the DPS, such as renewal reminders, suspension notifications, and other critical information related to your driving privileges.
* **Vehicle Registration Issues:** An outdated address can cause issues with vehicle registration renewals, inspection notices, and other vehicle-related matters.
* **Voting Complications:** If your driver’s license is used as identification for voting, an inaccurate address can cause complications with your voter registration.
* **Legal Issues:** In the event of a legal matter, such as a traffic ticket or court summons, an outdated address can make it difficult to receive important notices and documents, which could potentially lead to further legal complications.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Q: How long do I have to change my address after moving?**
* A: You have 30 days from the date of your move to notify the Texas DPS of your address change.

* **Q: Can I change my address online if I have a commercial driver’s license (CDL)?**
* A: No, individuals with a CDL must update their address in person at a DPS office.

* **Q: Do I need to bring my Social Security card to change my address?**
* A: While it’s always good to have, the DPS usually only requires your Social Security number, not the physical card, for verification purposes. Providing your SSN is mandatory to confirm your identity, it must be entered correctly.

* **Q: How much does it cost to change my address on my driver’s license?**
* A: There is typically no fee to simply change your address. However, if you request a duplicate license card with your updated address, you will be required to pay a fee.

* **Q: Can I use a P.O. Box as my physical address?**
* A: No, you must provide a valid physical address where you reside. A P.O. Box can be used as your mailing address if it differs from your physical address.

* **Q: What if I don’t have two proofs of Texas residency in my name?**
* A: If you live with someone else, such as a family member or roommate, you can use their documents as proof of residency. You will also need to provide a statement from that person confirming that you live at their address.

* **Q: I am temporarily out of the country. How can I change my address?**
* A: Contact the Texas DPS directly for guidance on how to proceed. You may need to provide additional documentation to verify your identity and residency.

* **Q: What if I make a mistake while entering my address online?**
* A: If you make a mistake while entering your address online, you can correct it by logging back into the system and updating your information. If you are unable to correct the mistake online, you may need to visit a DPS office in person.

* **Q: What if my driver’s license is lost or stolen?**
* A: If your driver’s license is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a duplicate license at a DPS office. You will also need to provide proof of identity and residency.

## Conclusion

Updating your address on your Texas driver’s license is a simple but essential task that ensures you receive important notices and maintain compliance with state law. Whether you choose to update your address online, in person, or by mail, be sure to follow the steps outlined in this guide and provide accurate information to avoid any potential complications. Staying proactive and keeping your information current is critical for responsible driving and legal compliance in the Lone Star State.