You can change your address online, by mail, or in person at a Secretary of State office
Illinois lets you update your driver's license address without getting a new card or paying a fee. The fastest way is online through the Secretary of State's website if you have a valid Illinois license and a recent address. If you can't use the online system, you can mail in a form or visit a Driver Services facility in person. The method you choose depends on what documents you have and how quickly you need the change processed.
Your address must match your current residence. If you've moved and your license still shows an old address, updating it is straightforward — but the process differs slightly depending on whether you're doing it yourself or need help from someone else.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Secretary of State website is free and takes about five minutes if your license is current and you have your driver's license number.
- You can mail Form DL 505 to the Secretary of State with a copy of your new address proof, and the change typically processes within two to three weeks.
- In-person visits at a Driver Services facility let you change your address the same day, though you may need to wait in line.
- You need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
- If someone else is changing the address on your behalf, they must bring a notarized power of attorney or be your legal guardian.
Changing your address online through the Secretary of State
The online method is the easiest if you're may be able to access. Go to the Secretary of State's Driver Services website and select the address change option. You'll need your current Illinois driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and let you enter your new address.
After you submit the change online, you'll receive a confirmation. Your updated address takes effect when ready in the Secretary of State's system, though your physical card will still show the old address until it expires or you renew it. You don't need to do anything else — your license remains valid with the new address on file.
The online system is not available if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked. If any of those explore to you, use the mail or in-person method instead.
Mailing in your address change with Form DL 505
If you prefer to mail your change or can't use the online system, read or request Form DL 505 (process for Duplicate Driver's License or Permit) from the Secretary of State website. Fill in your new address and sign the form. You do not need to provide a new photo or pay a fee for an address change only.
Include a copy of your address proof with the form. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail (such as a tax return or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and new address.
Mail the completed form and address proof to the address listed on the form — typically the Secretary of State's Driver Services office in Springfield. Processing takes two to three weeks. Once processed, your address is updated in the system, though your physical card won't change until renewal.
Updating your address in person at a Driver Services facility
You can walk into any Driver Services facility in Illinois and request an address change. Bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address (the same documents accepted for mail-in changes). Tell the staff member you need an address change only, not a renewal or duplicate card.
The change is processed the same day, and your address is updated in the system when ready. Your physical card still shows the old address until you renew, but your license is valid with the new address on file. There is no fee for an address change.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday typically means shorter lines than afternoons or Saturdays. You can find your nearest facility and current wait times on the Secretary of State's website.
What counts as proof of your new address
Illinois requires a document that shows your name and new address and was issued within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. Other acceptable documents include a lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, or government mail such as a tax return, voter registration card, or court document.
The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo of a bill or a screenshot usually won't work. If you're moving and haven't received mail at your new address yet, ask your utility company or landlord for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Some companies will provide this within days.
If you don't have any document in your name at the new address, you may be able to use a document showing a spouse's or parent's name at that address, along with a signed statement explaining your situation. Call your local Driver Services facility to ask what they can accept in your case.
If someone else is changing your address for you
A family member or representative can change your address on your behalf, but they must bring specific documents. They need your current driver's license, your proof of new address, and either a notarized power of attorney or proof that they are your legal guardian (such as a court order).
A power of attorney is a legal document you sign in front of a notary public that gives someone permission to act on your behalf. You can create one at a bank, law office, or notary service. The person changing your address must bring the original notarized document — a copy may not be accepted.
If you're a minor, your parent or legal guardian can change your address without a power of attorney, but they should bring a birth certificate or custody document to prove the relationship.
What happens to your physical card and when you need to renew
Changing your address does not issue you a new card. Your physical driver's license will continue to show your old address until you renew your license. When you renew — either online, by mail, or in person — you'll receive a new card with your current address printed on it.
In Illinois, driver's licenses are valid for four or eight years depending on your age. You can renew online if you're not changing your photo, address, or name, but if you want a new card with your updated address before your renewal date, you can request a duplicate license for a fee (usually around $5 to $10). A duplicate is a new physical card with the same information as your current license, except you can update your address at that time.
Your updated address in the Secretary of State's system is what matters for legal purposes — police, courts, and government agencies see the current address on file, not what's printed on your card. However, if you're stopped by police or need to show your license, the old address on the card may cause confusion. Many people choose to get a duplicate card with the new address printed on it rather than wait for their next renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online change takes about five minutes to complete. Your address is updated in the Secretary of State's system when ready after you submit it. You'll receive a confirmation email or message confirming the change went through.
Do I have to pay to change my address?
No. Changing your address is free whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You only pay a fee if you request a duplicate card with the new address printed on it.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
You cannot use the online system if your license is expired. You can still change your address by mail or in person at a Driver Services facility. Bring your expired license and proof of your new address.
What if I moved but haven't received any mail at my new address yet?
Contact your utility company, landlord, or mortgage lender and ask for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address and move-in date. Most will provide this within a few days at no cost. That letter counts as proof of address.
Will my old address still show on my physical card after I change it?
Yes. Your address in the Secretary of State's system updates when ready, but your physical card keeps the old address until you renew your license or request a duplicate card. The address on file is what government agencies and police see, so the old card won't cause legal problems.