How to change your address on an Illinois driver's license
You can change your address on your Illinois driver's license in person at a Secretary of State facility, by mail, or online through the Illinois Secretary of State website. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. By mail takes one to two weeks. In person at a facility takes about 30 minutes but you walk out with the change recorded when ready.
You do not need to renew your license to change your address. The address update is separate from renewal, and you can do it any time before your license expires. You will need proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Illinois Secretary of State website is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you receive confirmation by email.
- By mail, you send a completed form with proof of your new address to the Secretary of State, and the change takes one to two weeks.
- In person at any Secretary of State facility, you bring your current license and proof of address, and the change is recorded while you wait.
- Proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name.
Changing your address online
Go to cyberdriveillinois.com and select "Online Services." Look for the option to change your address on your driver's license or state ID. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also enter your new address and confirm your email address.
After you submit the form, you receive a confirmation email from the Secretary of State. The address change takes effect when ready in their system, though it may take a few days for the change to show up if you check your record online. You do not receive a new physical card — your current license remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew.
Changing your address by mail
read or request the form DL 127 (Change of Address) from the Secretary of State website or call 217-782-6900 to have one mailed to you. Fill in your current license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of your proof of address — keep the original for your records.
Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks. Like the online method, you do not receive a new card — the address change is recorded in the system, and your current license remains valid until renewal.
Changing your address in person at a Secretary of State facility
Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address. Go to any Secretary of State Driver Services facility during business hours. You do not need an appointment for an address change. Tell the staff member you are there to update your address.
The process takes about 30 minutes depending on how busy the facility is. The staff member will verify your information, record the change, and give you a receipt. Like the other methods, your physical license card keeps the old address until you renew, but the address in the system updates right away.
What counts as proof of your new address
Your proof document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax bill. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photo or printout is not accepted.
If your name on the document does not match your name on your license exactly, bring a second document showing both names — for example, a marriage certificate or divorce decree if your name changed. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, call 217-782-6900 to ask about alternatives.
Finding a Secretary of State Driver Services facility
The Secretary of State operates Driver Services facilities across Illinois. Go to cyberdriveillinois.com and use the facility locator to find the office nearest you. The locator shows hours, address, and phone number. Some facilities are busier than others — calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you choose when to go.
Facilities are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. If you live far from a facility or have limited mobility, the online or mail methods may be more practical for you.
What happens to your physical license card
When you change your address, the Secretary of State updates their system, but your physical license card keeps the old address printed on it. You do not receive a new card just for an address change. The card remains valid — police and other officials can see your current address in the system when they scan your license.
If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you must renew your license. Renewals in Illinois happen every four or eight years depending on your age. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address before I move?
No. You can change your address before or after you move. However, it is a good idea to do it soon after moving so your license information matches where you actually live. If you are stopped by police, having a current address on file can prevent confusion.
What if I do not have a utility bill or lease in my name yet?
Call the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 and explain your situation. They can tell you what other documents they will accept. In some cases, a letter from your landlord or a signed lease may work even if it is not a utility bill.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
Yes. An expired license can still be used to change your address. However, if your license is expired, you may want to renew it at the same time. You can do both online, by mail, or in person.
How long does it take to see the address change online?
The change takes effect in the Secretary of State system right away, but it may take a few days to show up if you check your driving record online through their website. The address is updated in law enforcement systems within one to two business days.
Do I need to change my address with the DMV if I move to another state?
No. The Illinois Secretary of State handles Illinois licenses only. If you move out of state, you will need to get a driver's license from your new state. Each state has its own process and requirements.