Where to Report Your Address Change in Illinois
In Illinois, you report an address change to the Secretary of State's office, which administers the driver's license system. You do not go to a local DMV — Illinois has no county-level DMV offices. Instead, you can change your address online through the Secretary of State website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services facility.
The online method is the fastest and most direct route. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The change takes effect when ready once you submit it, and you do not need to pay a fee or receive a new card unless you want one.
If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail a completed form or visit a Driver Services facility in person. Both methods take longer — mail typically takes 7 to 10 business days, and in-person visits require you to bring original documents and may involve a wait.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois allows you to change your address online through the Secretary of State website at no cost, and the change is active when ready.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to change your address online.
- If you change your address online, your physical license card will still show the old address until you renew or request a replacement.
- Mailing in a form or visiting a Driver Services facility in person takes 7 to 10 business days and requires you to bring original documents.
- You do not need to change your address on your license if you move within Illinois, but doing so keeps your records current with law enforcement and the state.
Changing Your Address Online
The online address change is available through the Secretary of State's website under the "Online Services" section. Go to the address change portal, enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your email address. The system will verify your identity and display your current information.
Review the information on screen, then enter your new Illinois address. Make sure the street address, city, and ZIP code are correct — the system will not accept a P.O. box as a residential address. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation email. Your address change is complete and active in the state system when ready.
Your physical license card will continue to show your old address. If you want a card with the new address printed on it, you can request a replacement card through the same online portal or by mail. A replacement card costs $5 and takes about two weeks to arrive.
Changing Your Address by Mail
To change your address by mail, read the DL 43 form (Address Change) from the Secretary of State website or request one by calling the Driver Services customer line. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Do not notarize it.
Mail the completed form to the address listed on the form — currently the Secretary of State's office in Springfield. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and the new address.
Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date the office receives your form. You will not receive a confirmation in the mail; your address change is complete when it appears in the state system. You can verify the change by logging into your online account or calling the customer service line.
Changing Your Address in Person at a Driver Services Facility
Illinois operates Driver Services facilities in major cities across the state. You can visit any facility to change your address in person. Bring your current driver's license and one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
You do not need an appointment at most facilities, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the Secretary of State website for the facility nearest you and its hours. The address change is processed on the spot and takes effect when ready. You will not receive a new card unless you request one.
If you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you can request one at the facility. The card costs $5 and will be mailed to your new address within two weeks. Some facilities can issue a temporary paper license on the same day if you need proof of your new address right away.
What Happens to Your Physical License Card
When you change your address online or by mail, your physical license card does not change. It will continue to show your old address until you renew your license or request a replacement card. Law enforcement and other agencies can see your current address in the state system, so your old card will not cause problems with traffic stops or ID checks.
If you want a card that shows your new address, you must request a replacement. The cost is $5, and the new card will be mailed to your new address within two weeks. You can request a replacement through the online portal, by mail using the DL 43 form, or in person at a Driver Services facility.
Documents You Need for Each Method
| Method | Documents Required | Processing Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number, last 4 digits of SSN, email address | when ready | Free |
| By Mail | DL 43 form, proof of new address (utility bill, lease, etc.) | 7–10 business days | Free |
| In Person | Current driver's license, proof of new address (utility bill, lease, etc.) | Same day | Free |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not use a P.O. box as your residential address. Illinois requires a street address where you actually live. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, contact the Driver Services customer line to discuss your options — you may be able to use a shelter address or a trusted contact's address temporarily.
If you are mailing in a form, do not notarize it. The form does not require a notary signature, and notarizing it will not speed up processing. Make sure your proof of address document is dated within the last 60 days and shows both your name and your new address. Utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and recent bank statements all work.
If you change your address online but want a replacement card, do not assume one will be mailed automatically. You must request the replacement separately through the online portal or by mail. Without a request, you will keep your old card with the old address on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move within Illinois?
No, you are not required to change your address. However, the state recommends keeping your address current so that official mail reaches you and law enforcement has your correct information. If you do not change it, your license remains valid.
Can I change my address if I move out of Illinois?
No. If you move to another state, you must obtain a driver's license from that state. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency. You can keep your Illinois license as a form of ID, but you cannot legally drive in another state on an Illinois license.
How long does it take to get a replacement card with my new address?
A replacement card is mailed to your new address and typically arrives within two weeks. Some Driver Services facilities can issue a temporary paper license on the same day if you need when ready proof of your new address.
What if the online system will not accept my information?
If the system rejects your driver's license number or Social Security number, verify that you entered them correctly. If the problem continues, use the mail or in-person method instead. You can also call the Driver Services customer line for help troubleshooting the online portal.
Can someone else change my address for me?
No. Only you can change your address on your own license. A parent, spouse, or guardian cannot do it on your behalf. If you are unable to go online or visit a facility, you can mail in the DL 43 form yourself, or ask someone to mail it for you — but you must sign the form.