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30-Day Deadline Under Texas Transportation Code §521.054

Texas law requires you to notify the DMV within 30 days of establishing a new residential address. Penalty for non-compliance: moving violation.

How to update your address with Texas DMV

Most Texas residents can complete the address change online. Here is the step-by-step process:

  1. 1
    Visit the official Texas DMV portal: TxDMV.gov

    Go directly to the address change section. Do not use third-party sites that charge fees for this free service.

  2. 2
    Verify your identity

    You will need your current Texas driver's license number and date of birth. Some portals also require the last 4 digits of your SSN.

  3. 3
    Enter your new residential address

    P.O. boxes are not accepted as residential addresses. Your address must be a physical Texas address.

  4. 4
    Submit and save your confirmation

    Record your confirmation number. A paper address card or updated record will be mailed to your new address within 2–3 weeks.

Vehicle registration — also requires updating

Your driver's license and vehicle registration are separate records. Your Texas vehicle registration must also be updated — the deadline is 30 days. You can typically update both through the same DMV portal session.

What happens if you miss the 30-day deadline?

The penalty in Texas is moving violation. In practice, this is most commonly discovered during a traffic stop when the address on your license does not match your insurance card or registration. Beyond the fine, a mismatch can complicate auto insurance claims if your insurer's records also show the wrong address.

Moving to Texas from another state?

If you are a new Texas resident from another state, you must obtain a Texas driver's license — not just update an address. Requirements typically include: surrendering your out-of-state license, passing a vision test, and in some cases a knowledge test. Visit TxDMV.gov for current new-resident requirements and fees.

Texas DMV Address Change Checklist

4 items
30 days
30 days
Before move
Week 1

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

For most Texas residents, the address change can be completed entirely online at TxDMV.gov. In-person visits are only required if you cannot verify your identity through the online system, or if you are a new Texas resident obtaining a license for the first time.

Some states have automatic voter registration links to DMV records, but you should not assume this happened. Verify your voter registration status at your Texas Secretary of State website after your move. See our voter registration guide.

Yes. Texas law requires notification for any change of residential address, including moves within the same city or even the same apartment complex. The online process is free and takes about 5 minutes.

Informational only. This page provides general guidance based on Texas Transportation Code §521.054 and current DMV procedures as of 2025. Always verify at TxDMV.gov. This is not legal advice.