Documents the Illinois Secretary of State Requires

To change your address on your Illinois driver's license or ID card, you need to bring proof of your new address and a valid form of identification. The Secretary of State (which runs the DMV in Illinois) does not require you to submit documents by mail first — you bring them in person to a Driver Services facility.

You do not need to bring your current license, though it helps. You do need to prove where you live now. Illinois accepts a narrow list of documents for this, and they must show your name and current address.

Key Takeaways

  • Proof of address must be an original document (not a copy) that shows both your name and your new street address.
  • Utility bills, lease agreements, and mortgage statements are the most common documents accepted; bank statements and insurance papers are not.
  • You must visit a Driver Services facility in person — address changes cannot be done online or by mail in Illinois.
  • Bring a second form of ID (passport, military ID, or Social Security card) if your current license is expired or you do not have it with you.

Acceptable Proof of Address Documents

Illinois accepts the following as proof of your new address: a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone); a lease agreement or rental agreement; a mortgage statement; a property tax bill; a homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance declaration page; or a government-issued document showing your name and address (such as a voter registration card or property deed).

The document must be an original, not a photocopy. It must show your full name and your complete street address. If the document is a utility bill or lease, it should be recent — generally from the last 60 days, though the Secretary of State does not publish a strict cutoff.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and pay stubs are not accepted as proof of address in Illinois, even if they show your name and address. Nor are letters from employers, schools, or government agencies unless they are the specific documents listed above.

Valid Forms of Identification to Bring

You must bring a valid form of identification along with your proof of address. Your current Illinois driver's license counts, even if it is expired. If you do not have your license with you, bring a U.S. passport, military ID, or Social Security card.

If you are a non-citizen, bring your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The Secretary of State requires proof of legal residency or work authorization to issue or renew any license or ID.

What to Do If You Do Not Have Acceptable Documents

If you do not have a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name, you have limited options. Some Driver Services facilities will accept a notarized letter from a landlord or property owner stating that you live at the address, though this is not may provide and varies by location.

Your best step is to call the Driver Services facility where you plan to go and ask what they will accept in your situation. The Secretary of State's main phone line is 217-782-6900, and they can direct you to your nearest facility or tell you what documents might work for your case.

How to Submit Your Documents at a Driver Services Facility

Walk into any Driver Services facility in Illinois with your proof of address and valid ID. You do not need to mail documents ahead or request a form. Tell the clerk you want to change your address on your license or ID card.

The clerk will check your documents, verify your information in the system, and update your address on the spot. There is a fee — currently $5 for a duplicate license or ID card with the new address. You will receive your new card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you want your new address to appear on your license when ready, some facilities offer a temporary address change that takes effect right away, though your physical card will still arrive by mail. Ask the clerk whether this is available at your location.

Timing and What to Expect

The address change itself takes about 15 minutes at the facility. Your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old card with the old address is still valid for identification purposes.

If you are moving out of state or your new address is outside Illinois, you will need to explore for a new license in your new state rather than straightforward changing your address. Illinois will not issue a license to someone who no longer lives in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address online or by mail?

No. Illinois requires you to change your address in person at a Driver Services facility. You cannot do it online, by phone, or by mail. This is true even if you are changing your address within Illinois.

What if my lease or utility bill is in someone else's name?

The document must show your name. If your lease or utility bill is only in your roommate's or spouse's name, it will not work as proof of address. You need a document with your own name on it.

Do I need to bring my current license?

You do not need to bring it, but it helps. If you have it, bring it. If you do not, bring another valid ID like a passport or military ID instead.

How much does it cost to change my address?

The fee is $5 for a duplicate license or ID card with your new address. You pay this at the Driver Services facility when you submit your documents.

What if I moved but have not updated my address anywhere yet?

You still need a document that shows your name and new address. If you have a signed lease or rental agreement for your new place, that works even if you have not received a utility bill yet. A notarized letter from your landlord may also work — call ahead to confirm.