How long does it take to change a registered agent in Texas?

Processing typically takes 3-5 business days if filed online through SOSDirect, or 7-10 business days if filed by mail. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

What does it cost to change a registered agent in Texas?

The state filing fee for Form 401 (Certificate of Amendment) is $150 as of 2026. There are no additional fees unless you choose expedited processing.

Can I be my own registered agent in Texas?

Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent if you're a Texas resident with a physical address in the state. However, many business owners prefer hiring a professional service for privacy and reliability.

Will changing my registered agent affect my LLC's good standing?

No, changing your registered agent will not affect your LLC's good standing status, as long as you maintain continuous registered agent coverage and file the required paperwork properly.

Can I file the registered agent change online or do I need to mail it?

You can file Form 401 online through the Texas Secretary of State's SOSDirect system at https://www.sos.state.tx.us, which is faster than mailing. You can also file by mail or in person if preferred.

How to Change Your Registered Agent in Texas

Complete guide to updating your LLC's registered agent with the Texas Secretary of State, including required forms, fees, and filing procedures.

By Edmond Hui · Last updated: January 2026

Read this guide for another state:

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee)Instant registered agent service in all 50 states

How to File

1
Obtain consent from your new registered agent
Before filing any paperwork, ensure your new registered agent agrees to serve your LLC and has a physical Texas address (not a P.O. Box).
2
Complete Form 401 - Certificate of Amendment
Download Form 401 from the Texas Secretary of State website at https://www.sos.state.tx.us. This form is used to amend your LLC's certificate of formation to change the registered agent information.
3
Fill out the required information
Include your LLC's name, file number, the new registered agent's name and complete Texas street address, and indicate this is a registered agent change.
4
Sign and notarize the form
The form must be signed by a manager or member of the LLC and notarized before submission to the Texas Secretary of State.
5
Submit the form with filing fee
File Form 401 online through SOSDirect at https://www.sos.state.tx.us, by mail, or in person. The filing fee is $150 as of 2026.
6
Update your records and notify stakeholders
Once processed, update your internal LLC records and notify banks, creditors, and other relevant parties of the registered agent change.

Ready to file your annual report?

Go directly to the Texas Secretary of State portal.

File at Texas SOS →

When Should You Change Your Registered Agent?

Your current registered agent is moving out of Texas or closing their business
You're switching from being your own registered agent to hiring a professional service
Your registered agent has become unresponsive or is providing poor service
You're relocating your business and need a registered agent in a different Texas location

Frequently Asked Questions

Share this guide

Ready to Form Your Texas LLC?

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee)Instant registered agent service in all 50 states

← All Texas LLC guides

How to File

Obtain consent from your new registered agent

Complete Form 401 - Certificate of Amendment

Fill out the required information

Sign and notarize the form

Submit the form with filing fee

Update your records and notify stakeholders

When Should You Change Your Registered Agent?

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Form Your Texas LLC?

More Texas LLC Guides