You can update your Illinois driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a Secretary of State facility
The fastest way is online through the Illinois Secretary of State website if your address change is within Illinois and your license is not expired or suspended. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address. The online system processes the change when ready, and you do not need to pay a fee.
If you cannot use the online system — because you are moving out of state, your license is expired, or you prefer to update in person — you can mail a completed form or visit a Secretary of State facility. Each route has different timing and document requirements.
Key Takeaways
- The online address change through the Illinois Secretary of State website is free and takes minutes if your license is current and you are staying in Illinois.
- You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
- If you are moving out of state or your license is expired, you must use the mail or in-person route instead.
- In-person updates at a Secretary of State facility usually take 15 to 30 minutes and require a completed form and proof of your new address.
- A mailed form takes two to three weeks to process, so plan ahead if you need the updated license by a specific date.
Changing your address online
Go to the Illinois Secretary of State website and select the option to update your driver's license address. You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new Illinois address. The system will verify your information and process the change on the spot.
This method works only if your license is current (not expired or suspended) and your new address is within Illinois. You will not receive a new physical card in the mail — your address straightforward updates in the state system. If you need a replacement card with the new address printed on it, you can order one for a fee through the same system, though it is not required.
Updating your address by mail
read or request the Address Change form (DL 127) from the Illinois Secretary of State website. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Mail it to the address listed on the form along with a document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work.
Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your form. You do not pay a fee for the address change itself, but if you want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you will need to include a check or money order for the replacement fee (the amount varies). Without a replacement card, your license remains valid at your old address for identification purposes, but the state system will have your current address on file.
Updating your address in person at a Secretary of State facility
Locate your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services facility using the office locator on the Illinois Secretary of State website. Bring your current driver's license, a completed Address Change form (DL 127), and a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, insurance policy, or bank statement.
Walk-ins are accepted, though wait times vary by location and time of day. The update usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will not receive a new card on the spot — the address updates in the state system, and if you want a replacement card, you can order it there for a fee. Some facilities allow you to order the replacement card when ready so it arrives within one to two weeks.
What to do if your license is expired or suspended
You cannot use the online address change system if your license is expired or suspended. Instead, you must visit a Secretary of State facility in person or mail in the Address Change form. When you go in person, bring your expired or suspended license along with your address proof document.
If your license is expired, you may be able to renew it and update your address at the same time, which requires additional documents like proof of residency and your Social Security card. If your license is suspended, contact the Secretary of State to understand why before attempting to update your address — some suspensions prevent you from renewing or updating until the suspension is lifted.
Moving out of state
If you are relocating outside Illinois, you cannot use the online address change system. You must either mail the Address Change form to the Illinois Secretary of State with your new out-of-state address, or visit a facility in person before you leave. The state will update your address in its system, but your Illinois license remains valid for identification.
Once you establish residency in your new state, you will need to obtain a driver's license from that state. Most states require you to explore for a new license within 30 to 60 days of moving, though the exact timeline varies. Check your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for their specific requirements and timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get a new physical card when I change my address online?
No. The online change updates your address in the state system only. Your current card remains valid. If you want a new card printed with your updated address, you can order a replacement card through the online system for a fee, which arrives in one to two weeks.
What counts as proof of my new address?
A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, insurance policy, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. The document must show your name and new address. A printed utility bill from your online account is acceptable as long as it shows the date and your address.
How long does it take to change my address by mail?
The Secretary of State typically processes mailed forms within two to three weeks from the date they receive it. Mail delivery adds time on both ends, so plan for four to five weeks total from when you drop it in the mailbox to when the change is complete.
Can I change my address if I have a suspended license?
You can submit an address change, but you should first contact the Illinois Secretary of State to understand why your license is suspended. Some suspensions prevent you from renewing or updating your license until the suspension is resolved. Call the Secretary of State Driver Services line to confirm your status before you attempt to update.
What if I move and do not update my address?
Your license remains valid for identification and driving, but the state system will have your old address on file. This can cause problems if you are stopped by police, receive a ticket, or need to renew your license. It is best to update as soon as you move to keep your information current.