How to change your address with the Illinois DMV
You can change your address with the Illinois Secretary of State (which runs the DMV) online, by mail, or in person at a driver services facility. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs nothing. Your new address will appear on your driver's license and vehicle registration without you needing to renew either one early. The change is permanent unless you move again.
Illinois does not require you to notify the DMV within a specific number of days, but doing it promptly matters for your insurance and vehicle registration records. If you get pulled over or have an accident and your license shows an old address, it can create confusion with law enforcement and your insurance company. Your registration must match your current address for vehicle ownership records to be accurate.
Key Takeaways
- The online method through the Illinois Secretary of State website is free and takes about 10 minutes, and you can do it any time of day.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change it online.
- If you change your address online, both your driver's license and vehicle registration update automatically — you do not need to do them separately.
- Mailing in a change-of-address form takes one to two weeks, and in-person visits require a trip to a driver services facility during business hours.
- Your vehicle insurance company should be notified of your address change separately, as the DMV does not share this information with insurers.
Changing your address online through the Secretary of State website
Go to cyberdriveillinois.com and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Change of Address" from the menu. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using this information.
Once you submit the form, you will receive a confirmation number on screen. Write this down or take a screenshot — you may need it if you have questions later. The change takes effect when ready in the DMV system, though it may take a few business days for the updated information to appear in all state records.
This method works for driver's license address changes and vehicle registration address changes at the same time. You do not need to file separate forms or make separate trips.
Mailing a change-of-address form to the Illinois DMV
read the "Change of Address" form from the Secretary of State website, or call the DMV at 217-782-6900 to request one by mail. Fill in your current driver's license number, your new address, and sign the form. Include a copy of a document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.
Mail the completed form and your supporting document to the address listed on the form. Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives it. You will not receive a confirmation letter — the change is complete when your new license or registration arrives or when you check your record online.
Keep a copy of what you mail for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call 217-782-6900 to confirm the form was received.
Changing your address in person at a driver services facility
Visit any Illinois driver services facility with your current driver's license and a document showing your new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement from the last 60 days). Tell the clerk you need to change your address. The process takes about 15 minutes.
You will not pay a fee for an address change. The clerk will update your record on the spot, and your new address will be active when ready. If your driver's license or vehicle registration is expiring soon, the clerk can also tell you when you will need to renew.
To find the driver services facility nearest you, use the facility locator on cyberdriveillinois.com. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours. Some facilities have extended hours or Saturday appointments — check the website for your specific location.
What happens to your vehicle registration when you change your address
Your vehicle registration address updates automatically when you change your address through the DMV, whether you do it online, by mail, or in person. You do not need to file a separate form or pay a renewal fee. Your registration certificate will show the new address the next time you renew your registration or request a duplicate.
If you need proof of your new registration address before your next renewal, you can print a copy of your vehicle record from cyberdriveillinois.com or request a duplicate registration certificate by mail or in person. A duplicate costs about $5 to $10, depending on how you request it.
Notifying your insurance company separately
The Illinois DMV does not share address changes with your vehicle insurance company. You must contact your insurer directly and tell them about your move. This is important because your insurance rates and coverage may depend on where you live, and your policy may be invalid if your address on file is wrong.
Call your insurance agent or log into your policy online to update your address. Most insurers can make the change over the phone in a few minutes. Some may ask for proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. Do this as soon as you move, not after you change your DMV address.
Changing your address if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL)
If you hold a CDL, the process is the same — you can change your address online, by mail, or in person. However, CDL holders must renew their license every four years, and some address changes may trigger a new photo or updated medical certification depending on your specific situation. Call 217-782-6900 before you change your address if you are unsure whether your CDL renewal is coming up soon.
The online method still works for CDL holders and is the fastest option. Your commercial driving record and any endorsements (hazmat, tanker, passenger) will remain the same — only your address updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my address with the DMV if I move?
Illinois does not legally require you to notify the DMV within a specific timeframe, but you should do it as soon as you move. An outdated address can cause problems with law enforcement, your insurance company, and official mail from the state. It is free and takes 10 minutes online.
Will my driver's license show my new address right away?
Your address will update in the DMV system when ready, but your physical driver's license will still show your old address until you renew it or request a duplicate. You do not need to renew early just to get a new address — the updated information is valid even if your card shows the old one.
What if I move out of state?
If you move out of Illinois, you should get a driver's license from your new state. You can still change your Illinois address online or by mail if you need to, but you will eventually need to transfer your license to your new state of residence. Contact your new state's DMV for their specific requirements.
Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?
Yes, you can still change your address. The address change does not affect the status of your license. However, if your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot legally drive until the suspension or revocation is lifted, regardless of whether your address is current.
How long does it take to change my address by mail?
Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your form. Mail delivery adds another few days on each end, so plan for two to three weeks total from the time you drop it in the mail. The online method is when ready and free, so it is faster if you can use it.