Where to change your Illinois driver's license address
You can change your address at any Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility, online through the Illinois Secretary of State website, or by mail. The online option is the fastest if you have a valid Illinois driver's license and a computer with internet access. If you go in person, you'll need to visit a Driver Services office — there are locations in most counties, and you can find the one nearest you on the Secretary of State website.
The mail-in option exists but takes longer because your new license must be printed and shipped to you. Most people choose online or in-person because the process is quicker and you can verify the information is correct before submitting.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your address online, in person at a Driver Services facility, or by mail, with online being the fastest option.
- For an online change, you need your current Illinois driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address.
- In-person changes require you to bring your current driver's license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
- Address changes are free and do not require a new photo or a new license fee unless you also request a replacement card.
- Your new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days if you change it online or in person.
Changing your address online
Go to the Illinois Secretary of State website and select the option to change your address on your driver's license. You will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The system will ask you to confirm your identity and then show you a preview of the changes before you submit.
After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be printed and mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to use your old license until the new one arrives. There is no fee for this change.
Changing your address in person at a Driver Services office
Bring your current Illinois driver's license and one document that shows your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The staff member will update your information in the system, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use when ready.
Your permanent new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. There is no fee for a standard address change. If you want a replacement card with your photo printed on it right away, you can request that, but it will cost the standard replacement fee (which varies and should be confirmed when you visit).
Changing your address by mail
Complete the address change form from the Illinois Secretary of State website, sign it, and mail it along with a copy of your current driver's license and proof of your new address to the address listed on the form. This method takes longer because your request must be processed manually and your new license must be printed and mailed back to you.
Most people avoid this route unless they cannot visit an office or access the online system. If you do mail in your change, keep a copy of everything you send and note the date you mailed it so you can track when your new license should arrive.
What counts as proof of your new address
For in-person or mail-in changes, you need a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. A credit card statement or insurance bill may work depending on the office, so if you're unsure, call ahead.
If you've just moved and don't have a document yet in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your residency and move-in date. Some Driver Services offices will accept this temporarily while you wait for a utility bill to arrive.
Timeline and what to expect
If you change your address online or in person, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you change it by mail, add an extra week or two for processing. During this time, your old license remains valid, so you can still use it for identification or driving.
If you need your new license faster, some Driver Services offices offer expedited printing for a fee, though this is not available at all locations. Call your local office to ask if this option exists near you and what it costs.
When you need to change your address right away
If you're moving out of state or changing your address because of a legal name change, address change procedures may be different or combined with other updates. If you're moving to another state, you'll eventually need a license from that state, but you can update your Illinois address first if you're still a resident.
If your address changed because of a court order or protective order, contact your local Driver Services office directly to discuss your situation. Some offices have procedures to handle sensitive address changes securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address on my driver's license when I move?
Illinois law requires you to report an address change within a reasonable time after moving. There is no specific important date stated in the law, but updating it within 30 days is standard practice. Not updating it can cause problems if you're pulled over or if you need to renew your license.
Can I change my address if my license is expired?
No. Your license must be valid to change your address online or in person. If your license is expired, you'll need to renew it first. You can renew and change your address at the same time by visiting a Driver Services office or renewing online if you're within the renewal window.
What if I move and then move again before my new license arrives?
You can change your address again online or in person. Each time you do, a new license is printed and mailed to your most recent address. If you're moving multiple times in a short period, consider waiting until you're settled before updating your address to avoid multiple mailings.
Will changing my address affect my driving record or insurance?
Changing your address on your driver's license does not affect your driving record. Your insurance company may need to know about your move for rating purposes, but that's a separate update you make directly with them. Notify your insurance company when you move, even if you haven't updated your license yet.
Is there a fee to change my address?
No. A standard address change is free. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement card with a new photo or if you want expedited printing, which is not available everywhere.