How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Texas

Moving within Texas means more than unpacking boxes. You also need to update your address with the state agencies that handle your driver license and vehicle records so you keep getting important notices and stay in compliance.

This guide explains how a Texas DMV change of address works, step by step, and what to expect whether you update online, in person, or by mail.

Texas “DMV” Basics: Which Agency Handles What

Before you start, it helps to understand how things are split up in Texas. The state does not have a single “DMV” office that handles everything.

In Texas, this is typically handled by two different agencies:

• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

  • Handles: driver licenses, identification cards, commercial driver licenses (CDL)
  • Your license/ID address change is done through DPS.

• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) and county tax assessor‑collector offices

  • Handle: vehicle registration and titles
  • Your vehicle registration and title address change is handled through TxDMV systems, often through your county office.

What that means for you:

• If you drive, you usually need to update both:
  • Your driver license/ID address (DPS side), and
  • Your vehicle registration address (TxDMV/county side).

Depending on your county in Texas, some services may be available online, while others may require a visit to your local office. Always confirm whether you are dealing with DPS (licenses/IDs) or TxDMV or county tax office (registration/titles) so you don’t go to the wrong counter.

Why Updating Your Address in Texas Matters

Many drivers in Texas find that they only think about their address when registration renewal time comes around. But an outdated address can cause several problems:

• Driver license and ID records

  • Your Texas driver license is one of your primary IDs.
  • Keeping the address current helps match state records with banking, insurance, and employment verifications.

• Vehicle registration and title

  • Registration renewal notices, license plate replacement mailings, and some enforcement notices are tied to the address on file.
  • If you sell or transfer a vehicle in Texas, the address linked to the title can affect where certain official mailings go.

• Tickets, suspensions, and court notices

  • In Texas, courts and law enforcement agencies often use the address on your driver record to send hearing notices and other communications.
  • If mail goes to an old address, you could miss important deadlines.

• Insurance and residency issues

  • Auto insurers often cross‑check your Texas address with driver and registration records.
  • A mismatch can complicate claims or renewals.

While this is not legal advice, it’s generally safer to treat your address change as part of your moving checklist so state records are consistent and you keep receiving official notices.

What You’ll Need to Change Your Address

Exact requirements can vary, but most Texas address change processes will ask for similar information. Having it ready can make your DMV change of address Texas request smoother.

Common information

For a driver license/ID (DPS) address change, you’ll typically need:

• Current Texas driver license or ID card number
• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Last four digits of your Social Security Number (if requested in the online or paper form)
• New Texas residential address
• Mailing address, if different from your residence
• Contact information, such as phone number or email

For a vehicle registration/title (TxDMV/county) address change, you’ll typically need:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or
• License plate number
• Current Texas registration information
• New address (physical and/or mailing)
• Owner’s name and driver license number

In Texas, this is typically handled through separate systems for licenses and vehicle records, so be prepared to enter similar information more than once if you are updating both.

Documents you may be asked for

If you update in person, you may be asked for:

• Current Texas driver license or ID card
• Proof of identity (if required for that type of transaction)
• Proof of new address, such as:
  • Utility bill
  • Lease agreement
  • Mortgage statement
  • Official mail from a government agency

Not all address changes require proof of address, especially online, but it’s wise to bring a couple of documents if you go in person, in case your situation is reviewed more closely.

Why Texas address change requests get rejected

Address change requests in Texas may be delayed or rejected if:

• Name and information don’t match what is already on file
• Incomplete or inconsistent fields on the online system or paper form
• Using a P.O. Box where a physical address is required (for residential address fields)
• Unpaid fees or holds on the license or registration that must be handled first
• Out‑of‑state address submitted for a record that must remain tied to a Texas residence

When you use any Texas DMV change of address form, review your entries carefully before submitting to avoid these common issues.

Step‑by‑Step: Texas Address Change Options

In Texas, you usually update driver license/ID records and vehicle registration separately. The sections below walk through each, with options for online, in person, and by mail where available.

To find the most current instructions and eligibility for each method, you can visit:

• The official Texas Department of Public Safety website (for driver license/ID services).
• The official Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website (for registration and title services).

*(URLs can change; if you’re unsure, use a search engine to look up “Texas DPS driver license change address” or “TxDMV change address registration” and confirm you are on a .texas.gov site.)

1. Change Your Texas Driver License or ID Address (DPS)

Most drivers begin with their Texas driver license or ID because it’s used so often as proof of address.

A. Changing your address online (if eligible)

In Texas, many routine address changes for Class C (standard) licenses and ID cards can be done online if you meet certain eligibility criteria, such as:

• You have a valid, unexpired Texas driver license or ID
• Your information on file (name, DOB, SSN) can be verified
• You are a U.S. citizen or meet the current DPS online service requirements
• Your license is not suspended or revoked

To change your address online:

1. Go to the official Texas DPS driver license online services page
   • Use a search engine to find “Texas DPS change address online” and confirm the site ends in .texas.gov.
2. Select the option to change your address (sometimes grouped with renewal or replacement services).
3. Enter your driver license or ID number and other requested personal information.
4. Provide your new Texas address and, if asked, your separate mailing address.
5. Review your information carefully to make sure there are no typos.
6. Submit the request and pay any applicable fee (if required for a new card).

Depending on your county in Texas, online systems can be widely used or supplemented by local office options, but the DPS online portal is the primary route for many residents.

B. Changing your address in person at a DPS office

You may need or prefer to update your address in person, especially if:

• You are not eligible for online services
• Your license is expired or needs renewal at the same time
• You have had a name change and need to present documents
• You are correcting other information on your record

To update in person:

1. Locate a nearby DPS driver license office
   • Search “Texas DPS driver license office locator” to find hours, locations, and whether an appointment is required.
2. Gather your documents
   • Current Texas driver license or ID
   • Any identity or residency documents recommended by DPS for your situation
3. Visit the office and request a change of address
   • Indicate that you want to update the address on your driver license or ID record.
4. Complete the necessary form
   • DPS staff will either direct you to a kiosk or provide a paper or electronic form to update your address.
5. Pay any applicable fee, if a new card is issued.
6. Keep your receipt
   • In some cases, your receipt or temporary document can be used as proof of the update while you wait for the new card.

Many drivers in Texas find that scheduling an appointment, if offered, reduces wait times significantly at DPS offices.

C. Changing your address by mail (if available)

Depending on current DPS policies, some Texans may be able to request an address change by mail, particularly in special cases or using a printed Texas DMV change of address form for driver licenses/IDs.

To see if mail‑in is an option:

1. Search the Texas DPS website for “driver license address change by mail.”
2. Review any available PDF forms or instructions (often they explain who is eligible to submit by mail).
3. If a mail option is offered:
   • Print and complete the form carefully, using your current name as it appears on your license.
   • Include any requested documentation and payment method, if a fee is required.
   • Mail it to the DPS address specified on the form.

Because mail‑in options and addresses can change, always rely on the most recent instructions on the official DPS site rather than older forms you might find elsewhere.

2. Change Your Texas Vehicle Registration/Title Address (TxDMV & County Tax Office)

Next, you’ll typically need to update the address tied to your license plates and vehicle title.

In Texas, this is typically handled by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) through its systems, but many of the customer‑facing services are carried out by your county tax assessor‑collector office.

A. Changing your address online (if available)

In many Texas counties, you can update your registration address online, sometimes as part of an online registration renewal process.

Steps typically include:

1. Go to the official TxDMV website
   • Search “TxDMV change address registration” or “Texas vehicle registration online services” and confirm the site ends in .texas.gov.
2. Look for an ‘Address Change’ or ‘Registration Renewal’ link
   • You may be able to update your address while renewing, or through a separate address change tool.
3. Enter your plate number and other vehicle details
   • The system may ask for a VIN, license plate number, or registration information.
4. Enter your new Texas address
   • If you receive mail at a different address than where you park the car, follow the site’s guidance on which fields to use for each.
5. Submit and save confirmation
   • Keep a screenshot or printout if you are able to, in case you need to show that you requested the change.

Depending on your county in Texas, there may be additional county‑specific tools or portals, but they generally feed into the same TxDMV records.

B. Changing your address in person at your county tax office

You can also update your registration address at your county tax assessor‑collector office, which handles local vehicle registration services.

To change it in person:

1. Find your county tax office
   • Search “<Your County> Texas tax assessor collector vehicle registration” or use the office finder on the TxDMV site.
2. Bring your current registration or renewal notice
   • It’s easier for staff to pull your records if you have your license plate number or registration receipt.
3. Request an address change for your registration
   • Many offices let you update your address when you renew your registration or at the counter.
4. Provide your new address and any documentation
   • If the clerk needs to verify identity, you may be asked for your driver license.
5. Confirm that both registration and title records are updated, if that matters to you
   • In some cases, registration and title addresses can be handled in the same transaction; in others, separate steps may be required.

Many drivers in Texas find that combining a registration renewal visit with an address update at the county tax office saves an extra trip.

C. Changing your address by mail (if available)

Some Texas counties allow address changes by mail, often by:

• Completing the address change portion of your registration renewal notice, or
• Using a county‑provided form that you mail back with your renewal payment.

To use a mail option:

1. Review the instructions on your registration renewal notice or county website.
2. Fill in your new address on the printed notice or change form.
3. Mail it to the address given on the notice, following all instructions on signatures and payment.

Because mail‑in procedures vary by county in Texas, always follow the directions from your local county tax office rather than assuming the process is the same statewide.

License vs. Registration: Do They Update Together?

In Texas, driver license/ID records are maintained by DPS, and vehicle registration/title records are maintained by TxDMV and the counties. Changing your address with one does not automatically update the other.

In practical terms:

• If you change your driver license address at DPS, your registration/title address will stay the same until you update it separately with TxDMV or your county tax office.
• If you change your registration address with the county, your driver license address will not change until you update it with DPS.

For a complete Texas DMV change of address, plan to address both sides.

Simple View: Where to Update What in Texas

After You Submit Your Texas Address Change

Once you complete your address change, here’s what typically happens.

For your driver license / ID (DPS)

• Record update
  • Your driver record in the DPS system is updated with your new address.
• New card
  • Depending on how you submitted the change and current DPS policy, you may receive:
    • A replacement card showing your new address, or
    • Confirmation that your record is updated without immediate re‑issuance of a physical card.
• Proof in the meantime
  • If a new card is being mailed, you may be given a receipt or temporary document in person, or a confirmation page online. Keep this in a safe place.

In Texas, many drivers find that online changes are processed relatively quickly, but the time it takes to receive a new card by mail can vary.

For your vehicle registration / title (TxDMV and county)

• Registration records updated
  • The address used for renewal notices and registration mailings is updated in the TxDMV/ county system.
• Future mailings
  • Renewal notices, and in some cases stickers or plates sent by mail, should go to your new address going forward.
• Title records
  • If your title mailing address is also changed, future title documents should reflect the updated information.

If you have upcoming registration renewals, check that your next notice arrives at the new address. Many Texans use this as a simple way to confirm their vehicle records are current.

Special Situations in Texas

Certain drivers and residents in Texas face extra considerations when changing their address.

Commercial driver license (CDL) holders

For CDL holders:

• Address changes may be subject to additional federal and state requirements.
• You may be required to update in person, especially if other information on your CDL is changing.
• If your CDL is tied to an employer or specific medical certification, confirm whether your employer or medical examiner also needs an updated address.

Search the Texas DPS site for “CDL address change” to see current rules for your license class.

Active duty military stationed in Texas or out of state

If you are in the military:

• You may be stationed outside Texas but still maintain a Texas license and vehicle registration.
• Texas offers certain allowances for active‑duty members; however, you may still need to keep your mailing address current so you receive renewal notices and any official letters.
• If your physical residence changes but your legal Texas residence stays the same, check DPS and TxDMV guidance to see how they want addresses recorded for your situation.

Many service members in Texas find it helpful to maintain a stable mailing address with a trusted family member or through approved military channels.

College and university students

Students in Texas often split time between:

• A permanent home address (such as parents’ home), and
• A campus or off‑campus address near their school.

Points to consider:

• Your residential address for your driver license should reflect where you actually live most of the time in Texas.
• Your mailing address can be different—use whichever place is most reliable for receiving renewal notices and official mail.
• If you move apartments every year in a Texas college town, consider updating at least your mailing address to wherever you reliably pick up mail.

New Texas residents coming from another state

If you’re moving to Texas from another state, the process is more than an address change:

• You will generally need to apply for a Texas driver license with DPS.
• You will also need to title and register your vehicle in Texas with TxDMV and your county.
• Once your Texas license and plates are issued, any future address changes will follow the Texas‑specific steps described in this guide.

In Texas, this is typically handled as a full “new resident” transaction rather than a simple address update.

P.O. boxes and rural routes

Many Texans live in rural areas or rely on non‑standard addresses:

• Residential address requirement
  • DPS may require a physical residential address for your driver license record.
  • P.O. Boxes are usually not accepted as the sole “residence” address but may be allowed as a mailing address.
• Rural route or descriptive addresses
  • Some residents use rural route addresses or other formats recognized by the postal service.
  • Check how DPS/TxDMV want these entered; staff at local offices in rural Texas counties are often familiar with acceptable formats.

If you primarily receive mail at a P.O. Box in Texas, list it as your mailing address wherever that option is available in the form.

Changing your name and address at the same time

If you recently changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order:

• You usually must update your name first on your Texas driver license by presenting certified documents (such as a marriage certificate).
• Once your name is corrected on DPS records, you can update your address either during the same visit or shortly afterward, depending on DPS procedures.
• For your vehicle title and registration, you may also need to update the name on the title separately, which can involve additional paperwork.

Because name changes often require original documents, most people in Texas handle them in person rather than online.

Troubleshooting: When Your Texas Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your Texas DMV change of address doesn’t show up as expected. Here are common issues and practical steps to resolve them.

Online address change rejected

If your online address change is rejected:

• Check your personal data carefully
  • Make sure your driver license/ID number, date of birth, and SSN (if requested) exactly match what DPS has on file.
• Look for eligibility messages
  • The system may state that you are not eligible for online services due to license status, immigration status, or a mismatch in records.
• Try a different browser or device
  • Occasionally, technical issues or pop‑up blockers interfere with submission.
• If problems persist, switch to in‑person or mail
  • In Texas, most issues with online services can be resolved by visiting a DPS office or contacting your county tax office directly for registration/address changes.

Submitted, but not updated in the system

If you submitted a change but the system still shows your old address:

1. Allow some processing time
   • It can take time for records to sync, especially between DPS and TxDMV systems or between a county office and the state database.
2. Use the online status tools (if available)
   • Some services allow you to check the status of a recent transaction.
3. Call or visit the appropriate office
   • For driver license/ID: contact Texas DPS.
   • For registration/title: contact your county tax assessor‑collector or TxDMV.
4. Bring or reference your confirmation
   • Having your confirmation number, receipt, or email can help staff track down your request.

Rejected request due to incorrect or missing information

If you receive a notice or message that your request was rejected:

• Read the reason carefully
  • It might be a simple issue like a missing signature, incomplete section, or incorrect address format.
• Correct and resubmit
  • For paper forms, fill out a new, clean form rather than trying to correct and resubmit one that was already processed and returned.
  • For online submissions, start a new transaction and double‑check all entries.
• Ask for clarification if needed
  • Staff at DPS offices or your Texas county tax office can often explain specifically what needs to be fixed.

License updated, but registration didn’t (or vice versa)

Because Texas uses separate systems, it’s common to see one updated before the other:

• If your driver license shows the correct address but your registration doesn’t:

  • Verify with your county tax office or the TxDMV site that an address change was successfully submitted for your vehicle.
  • If not, submit a request specifically for your registration/title records.

• If registration is updated but your license isn’t:

  • Log in to the DPS online portal (if eligible) or visit a DPS office to update your driver license/ID address.

In Texas, many drivers find it helpful to check both systems separately once a year—often at registration renewal time—just to ensure everything matches.

You moved out of Texas

If you have moved out of Texas:

• You will usually need to get a new driver license in your new state of residence and follow that state’s procedures.
• For your Texas records:
  • You may no longer need to maintain a Texas driver license once you are licensed elsewhere.
  • You may need to surrender your Texas plates or handle your Texas registration differently, depending on your new state’s requirements.
• If you continue to receive Texas renewal notices at an old address, you can typically contact TxDMV or your previous Texas county tax office to update or close out the record.

When leaving Texas, focus on complying with the requirements of your new state while making sure Texas no longer shows you as an active vehicle owner or resident driver, where appropriate.

Keeping your address current with both DPS and TxDMV/county offices is an important part of driving in Texas. The most efficient approach is usually:

1. Update your Texas driver license or ID address (online if eligible, otherwise in person or by mail according to DPS instructions).
2. Update your vehicle registration/title address through TxDMV or your county tax assessor‑collector (again, online, in person, or by mail depending on what your county offers).
3. Keep confirmations or receipts until you see the new address appear on your card, registration, or renewal notices.

By handling both sides, your DMV change of address Texas is complete, helping ensure that all official mail and records follow you to your new home.