What You Need to Do to Change Your Address in Illinois
To change the address on your Illinois driver's license, you must visit a Secretary of State facility in person with proof of your new address and a valid form of ID. Illinois does not allow address changes by mail, phone, or online — you must appear at a Driver Services facility. The process takes about 15 minutes, and you will receive an updated license on the spot or by mail within 7 to 10 business days, depending on which option you choose at the facility.
You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The address change is a separate transaction that costs $5 and does not extend your license expiration date. If your license expires within 30 days of your address change, the Secretary of State recommends renewing at the same time to avoid a second trip.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person with proof of your new address and a valid ID to change your address.
- Acceptable proof of address includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
- The address change costs $5 and does not change your license expiration date or require a new photo.
- You can choose to receive your updated license by mail or pick it up at the facility the same day if you pay an additional $2 fee.
- If your license expires within 30 days, renew it at the same visit to avoid making two separate trips.
Documents You Must Bring to the Secretary of State
Bring your current Illinois driver's license and one document that proves your new address. The proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new street address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (such as a tax return or court document) all work. A post office change of address form does not count as proof.
You will also need a valid form of ID if your driver's license is expired or if you want to bring a second form of identification for verification. A passport, military ID, or state ID card are acceptable. If you do not have your current license with you, bring two forms of ID instead.
Where to Go and How to Find Your Nearest Facility
Visit the Secretary of State's Driver Services facility locator at cyberdriveillinois.com to find the office nearest you. Enter your city or ZIP code, and the tool will show you hours, phone numbers, and whether the facility requires an appointment. Some facilities operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Call ahead or check online before you go, because wait times vary widely by location and time of day.
Larger cities have multiple facilities. Chicago has several Driver Services locations on the North Side, South Side, and downtown. If one location has a long wait, you can visit another. Suburban and rural areas may have fewer options, so plan accordingly if you live outside a major city.
Step-by-Step Process at the Driver Services Facility
- Check in at the front desk and tell the staff member you are changing your address.
- Provide your current license and proof of your new address (dated within 60 days).
- The staff member will verify your information and update your record in the system.
- You will be asked whether you want your updated license mailed to you or picked up at the facility.
- If you choose same-day pickup, pay the $5 address change fee plus a $2 pickup fee (total $7).
- If you choose mail delivery, pay only the $5 address change fee; your license will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
- You will receive a receipt confirming your address change.
The entire transaction usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. You will not need a new photo or signature unless you are also renewing your license. Your license number and expiration date stay the same.
What Happens If Your License Expires Soon
If your license expires within 30 days of your address change, the Secretary of State recommends renewing your license at the same visit. This saves you a second trip and a second fee. Renewal costs $30 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license, depending on your age and license type. You will need to bring the same documents plus a new photo ID (passport, military ID, or state ID).
If you change your address and then your license expires more than 30 days later, you can renew by mail or online when the time comes. However, if you change your address and your license expires within 30 days, you must renew in person at a Driver Services facility.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring a post office change of address form as your only proof of address. The Secretary of State requires a document that shows your name and street address, such as a utility bill or lease. A change of address form does not meet this requirement.
Do not assume you can change your address online or by phone. Illinois requires an in-person visit. Some other states allow online address changes, but Illinois does not. If you attempt to change your address by mail or phone, your request will be rejected.
Do not wait until your license expires to change your address. If your license is expired, you cannot use it as ID to verify your identity at the Driver Services facility. You will need to bring two other forms of ID instead, which complicates the process. Change your address while your license is still valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my address online or by mail in Illinois?
No. Illinois requires you to change your address in person at a Secretary of State Driver Services facility. You cannot change your address online, by mail, or by phone. You must visit a facility with your current license and proof of your new address.
What if I do not have proof of my new address dated within 60 days?
You will need to obtain a document that shows your name and new address and is dated within the last 60 days. Contact your utility company, landlord, or bank to request a recent statement. If you cannot get one in time, you may need to delay your address change until you have the required proof.
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?
Illinois law requires you to notify the Secretary of State of your new address within 10 days of moving. Updating your license is the standard way to do this. If you do not update your license, your registration and vehicle records will still show your old address, which can cause problems with mail delivery and vehicle registration renewal.
Will I get a new photo on my license if I change my address?
No. An address change does not include a new photo. Your existing photo stays on your license. If you want a new photo, you must renew your license, which is a separate transaction with its own fee.
How long does it take to receive my updated license by mail?
Your updated license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your updated license sooner, pay the $2 same-day pickup fee and take it with you when you leave the facility.