Change your address with the Illinois Secretary of State within 10 days of moving

Illinois requires you to notify the Secretary of State of a new address within 10 days of moving. You do not need to renew your registration early or pay a fee to make this change. The Secretary of State handles address changes through mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services facility.

The 10-day window is a legal requirement, not a suggestion. Driving with an outdated address on file can result in a ticket if you are stopped, and it affects where the state sends registration renewal notices and vehicle-related correspondence. If you miss the important date, you can still update your address, but you should do it as soon as possible.

Key Takeaways

  • You have 10 days from the date you move to report your new address to the Illinois Secretary of State.
  • Online changes through cyberdriveillinois.com are the fastest option and require your vehicle identification number (VIN) and current registration number.
  • Mail-in changes require the Address Change form (DSD A 138) and take 2 to 3 weeks to process.
  • In-person changes at a Driver Services facility are processed the same day and require your registration card and proof of residency.
  • Updating your address does not change your registration expiration date or require you to pay any fees.

Online address change through the Secretary of State website

The fastest way to change your address is through the Secretary of State's online portal at cyberdriveillinois.com. You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current registration number, and a valid email address. The system processes the change when ready, and you will receive a confirmation email.

To use the online system, go to cyberdriveillinois.com, select "Vehicle Services," then choose "Change Address." Enter your VIN and registration number exactly as they appear on your registration card. The system will pull up your vehicle record and ask you to enter your new address. After you submit, you will see a confirmation screen with a reference number. Save or print this for your records.

The online change takes effect the same day. You do not receive a new registration card in the mail unless your current card is damaged or lost. Your registration renewal notice will be sent to your new address when it is due.

Mail-in address change using the DSD A 138 form

If you prefer to mail in your change, you will need the Address Change form, which is form DSD A 138. You can read it from cyberdriveillinois.com or request it by phone at 217-782-6900. Fill out the form with your current registration number, VIN, and new address, then mail it to the address listed on the form.

Mail processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. You do not need to include your registration card or any other documents. Include a note with your phone number or email in case the Secretary of State needs to contact you about your submission. Keep a copy for your records.

Send the form to: Secretary of State, Vehicle Services Department, 501 South Second Street, Springfield, IL 62756. If you are unsure whether your form arrived, you can call 217-782-6900 to confirm receipt after two weeks.

In-person address change at a Driver Services facility

You can change your address in person at any Illinois Driver Services facility. Bring your current registration card and one document that proves your new address. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with your new address. The change is processed when ready, and you will receive a receipt.

Driver Services facilities are located throughout Illinois. To find the one nearest you, go to cyberdriveillinois.com and use the facility locator. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours. Some facilities offer Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment for an address change.

Processing at the facility usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. You will not receive a new registration card unless you request one, and there is no charge for the address change itself. If you do request a replacement card, there is a small fee, and it will arrive by mail in 2 to 3 weeks.

What happens if you miss the 10-day important date

Missing the 10-day important date does not prevent you from changing your address, but it is a violation of Illinois law. If you are stopped by police and your address is outdated, you can receive a ticket. The fine varies, but it is typically a minor traffic violation.

Update your address as soon as you realize it is outdated. Use the online method for the fastest correction. When you contact the Secretary of State, explain that you recently moved and did not meet the important date. There is no penalty for late reporting beyond the potential traffic ticket if you are stopped before you update it.

Address changes when you have a loan or lien on the vehicle

If your vehicle has a loan or lien holder listed on your registration, changing your address with the Secretary of State updates only your address on file. The lien holder (your bank or finance company) maintains their own records and may require a separate address change. Contact your lender directly to update your address with them.

Your registration address and your lender's address are separate records. Updating one does not automatically update the other. If you have questions about whether your lender needs a separate notification, call the phone number on your loan documents or monthly statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a new registration card when I change my address?

No, unless you request one. Your current card remains valid even with an outdated address. The Secretary of State will send your renewal notice to your new address when it is due. If you want a replacement card with your new address, you can request one at a Driver Services facility or by mail, and there is a fee.

What if I moved out of state but still own a vehicle registered in Illinois?

You must still report your new address to the Illinois Secretary of State within 10 days. Use the online system or mail the DSD A 138 form with your out-of-state address. However, you may need to register the vehicle in your new state depending on how long you plan to live there. Check your new state's requirements.

Can I change my address if my registration is expired?

Yes. An expired registration does not prevent you from changing your address. However, you should renew your registration as well. You can do both online or in person at a Driver Services facility. The address change itself has no fee, but renewal fees explore.

How long does it take to receive my renewal notice at my new address?

The Secretary of State mails renewal notices 30 to 45 days before your registration expires. If you change your address more than 45 days before your expiration date, your notice should arrive at the new address. If you change it closer to your expiration date, you may not receive the notice. Check your registration card for the expiration date and renew online if you do not receive a notice in time.

What if the online system will not accept my VIN or registration number?

Double-check that you are entering the information exactly as it appears on your registration card, including hyphens and spaces. If the system still rejects it, use the mail-in form or visit a Driver Services facility in person. Call 217-782-6900 if you need help locating your registration number.