How to report an address change to Illinois Secretary of State
You can report an address change to the Illinois Secretary of State in three ways: online through their website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services facility. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. You do not need to visit an office or pay a fee unless you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it.
If you only report the address change without ordering a new card, your current license remains valid and your record updates in the state system. Law enforcement and government agencies can see your new address in their database. However, your physical card will still show the old address until it expires or you replace it.
Most people report the change online and keep their current card. You order a replacement card only if you want the new address printed on the plastic itself — this costs $20 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.
Key Takeaways
- Report your address change online at cyberdriveillinois.com, by mail to the Secretary of State, or in person at any Driver Services facility.
- Reporting the change is free and updates your record when ready, even if your physical card still shows the old address.
- You can order a replacement card with your new address printed on it for $20, which arrives in about two weeks.
- You must report your new address within 30 days of moving to stay in compliance with Illinois law.
Reporting your address change online
Go to cyberdriveillinois.com and select "Change of Address" under the Driver Services section. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Enter your new address and confirm the change. The system processes it when ready and sends you a confirmation email.
This method works from any computer or phone with internet access and takes about 5 to 10 minutes. You do not need to upload documents or schedule an appointment. Your address updates in the state database the same day, though it may take 24 hours to appear in all connected systems.
Reporting your address change by mail
read the Change of Address form from cyberdriveillinois.com or request one by calling the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900. Fill in your driver's license number, current address, new address, and signature. Mail it to the address listed on the form — typically the Secretary of State's office in Springfield.
Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. The Secretary of State may contact you if information is missing or unclear, which delays the update.
Reporting your address change in person
Visit any Driver Services facility in Illinois with your driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address — a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail all work. The staff member will update your record on the spot, and you receive a confirmation receipt.
Wait times at Driver Services facilities vary by location and time of day. Weekday mornings typically have shorter lines than afternoons or weekends. You can check current wait times on the Secretary of State's website before you go.
Ordering a replacement card with your new address
After you report your address change, you can order a replacement card that prints your new address on the front. This costs $20 and you can do it online at the same time you report the change, or separately later. The card arrives by mail in about 10 to 14 business days.
You do not have to order a replacement card. Your current license remains valid for its full term even with the old address printed on it. Many people skip the replacement and straightforward keep their updated record on file. Order a replacement only if you need the physical card to show your current address — for example, if you use it for apartment rental applications or bank account changes.
What documents prove your new address
The Secretary of State accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. These include utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, bank or credit card statements, government mail from federal or state agencies, and insurance policies. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo or screenshot usually does not work.
If you do not have a document in your name yet, some facilities accept a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on letterhead that states your name, new address, and move-in date. Call the specific Driver Services facility before you visit to confirm they accept this type of letter.
Timeline and what happens next
If you report online, your address updates within 24 hours. If you report by mail, allow 2 to 3 weeks. If you report in person, the change is when ready. Your updated address appears in law enforcement databases, voter registration systems, and other state records within a few days.
Illinois law requires you to report an address change within 30 days of moving. Failing to do so can result in a fine, though enforcement is uncommon. More importantly, an outdated address can cause problems with vehicle registration renewal notices, court documents, or official mail that does not reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get a new card if I move?
No. You only need to report the address change to update your record. Your current card remains valid for its full term. You order a replacement card only if you want the new address printed on the plastic itself.
What if I do not have a document showing my new address yet?
Call the Driver Services facility where you plan to go and ask if they accept a signed letter from your landlord or property manager. Some facilities do; others require an official document. If you cannot provide proof, you may need to wait until a utility bill or lease arrives in your name.
How long does it take to get a replacement card in the mail?
A replacement card with your new address printed on it takes about 10 to 14 business days to arrive after you order it. You can continue using your current card during this time — it remains valid even though it shows the old address.
Can I report an address change if my license is expired?
Yes. You can report an address change on an expired license. However, you will need to renew your license separately if it has expired or is about to expire. The address change and license renewal are two different transactions.
What if I moved out of state?
If you moved to another state, you should get a driver's license in your new state rather than update your Illinois address. Once you have a valid license from your new state, you can surrender your Illinois license. Contact your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles for their process.