The fastest way to change your address in Illinois
You can change your address with the Illinois Secretary of State's office online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services facility. The online method is quickest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address.
If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a completed form to the Secretary of State or walk into any Driver Services office with your ID and proof of your new address. All three methods update your license without requiring you to take a new photo or pass any tests.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Secretary of State website is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you'll receive confirmation by email.
- You need proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- If you change your address in person at a Driver Services facility, bring your current license and one document showing your new address.
- Your physical license card will not change — the address update happens in the state's system, and you can use your old card until it expires.
- If you move to a different county or state, you may need to renew your license rather than just update your address; check the Secretary of State website for your situation.
Changing your address online through the Secretary of State
Go to the Illinois Secretary of State website and select the option to change your address online. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using this information.
After you submit, you'll receive an email confirmation. Your address change takes effect when ready in the state's system, even though your physical card still shows the old address. You do not need to carry any documents or visit an office.
Changing your address by mail
read the address change form from the Secretary of State website or request one by calling the Driver Services hotline. Fill out the form with your current license number, your new address, and sign it. Include a copy of one document that proves your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two to three weeks. You do not need to include your physical license card.
Changing your address in person at a Driver Services facility
Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your new address to any Driver Services office in Illinois. The staff will update your address in the system on the spot. You do not need an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
Your physical license card will not change — the address update happens only in the state's records. You can continue using your current card. If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you would need to renew your license, which requires a new photo and costs a renewal fee.
What counts as proof of your new address
The Secretary of State accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document like a voter registration card or tax return.
The document must have your name printed on it and match the address you're registering. A handwritten address or a document in someone else's name will not work. If you've just moved and don't yet have a document in your name at the new address, contact the Driver Services hotline to ask about alternatives for your situation.
When you need to renew instead of just changing your address
If you're moving out of Illinois, you'll need to get a new license from your new state rather than just updating your address. Illinois does not issue out-of-state address changes.
If you're moving within Illinois but your new address is in a different county, a straightforward address change is still all you need. Your license remains valid and does not need to be renewed early. However, if your license is expiring soon anyway, you may want to renew it at the same time so your new address appears on the physical card.
Your old license card stays valid after an address change
Once you change your address online, by mail, or in person, your old license card is still legal to use. The address on the card no longer matches your records, but that does not make it invalid. You can use it for identification, driving, and age verification until the expiration date printed on the card.
If you want a new card with your updated address printed on it, you would need to renew your license through the standard renewal process, which includes a new photo and a renewal fee. This is optional — many people straightforward keep using their old card and let the state's records reflect the correct address.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change my address online?
The online process takes about 10 minutes to complete. Your address change is active in the state's system when ready after you submit. You'll receive an email confirmation within a few minutes.
Do I have to change my address if I move within Illinois?
You are not legally required to change your address when ready, but it's a good idea to do so. Your license is still valid with the old address, but updating it ensures your records match if you're stopped by police or need to renew your license.
What if I don't have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?
Call the Driver Services hotline and explain your situation. They may accept alternative documents such as a letter from your landlord, a mortgage document, or a government letter addressed to you at your new address. Each case is different, so ask what they can work with.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes, you can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address change is separate from the status of your driving privileges. Update your address so the state has your correct contact information.
Will changing my address affect my insurance or registration?
Changing your address with the Secretary of State updates only your driver's license records. You must separately notify your auto insurance company and update your vehicle registration with the Illinois Secretary of State if your address has changed. Contact your insurance agent and check the Secretary of State website for vehicle registration updates.