Where to report your address change in Illinois

Illinois does not have a single "DMV" office. The Secretary of State's office handles driver's licenses and ID cards, while the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) handles vehicle registration. You will need to update your address with both if you have a driver's license and own a vehicle.

The Secretary of State runs the Driver Services department, which processes address changes for licenses and ID cards. IDOT's Vehicle Services handles registration updates. Both accept address changes online, by mail, and in person at their offices. The online route is fastest and costs nothing.

You do not need to visit an office in person for a straightforward address change — Illinois lets you handle it from home. However, if your license or ID card is expiring soon or you need a replacement card with your new address printed on it, you may want to renew at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • Update your driver's license or ID address through the Secretary of State's Driver Services, and your vehicle registration through IDOT's Vehicle Services — these are two separate systems.
  • The online method is free and takes a few minutes; you will receive confirmation but not a new physical card unless you request one.
  • By mail, include a completed form, proof of your new address, and your current license or ID; processing takes two to four weeks.
  • If you change your address but do not update your license, you may face problems during traffic stops or when renewing your registration.
  • Address changes for vehicle registration require the vehicle's title or registration card and proof of your new address.

Updating your driver's license or ID address online

Visit the Secretary of State's website and look for the Driver Services section. You will find a link to change your address online. You will need your current driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using information on file.

The online change takes about five minutes. You will receive a confirmation number when ready. Your current license or ID card remains valid at your old address — Illinois does not automatically mail you a new card with the updated address. If you want a replacement card printed with your new address, you can request one during the online process, though there may be a small fee.

The online system works seven days a week. If the system cannot verify your identity, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.

Changing your address by mail

read or request the DL 505 form (Change of Address) from the Secretary of State's website, or call the Driver Services line to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form with your current license or ID number, your new address, and sign it.

Include a document that proves your new address. The Secretary of State accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, or government mail addressed to you at the new address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. Do not send your original license or ID card — you do not need to.

Mail the completed form and proof of address to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks. You will receive a confirmation letter but not a new card unless you request a replacement and pay the associated fee.

Changing your vehicle registration address

Vehicle registration is separate from your driver's license. You must update it with IDOT. Visit the IDOT website and look for the Vehicle Services section to change your address online. You will need your vehicle's license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the last four digits of the Social Security number of the registered owner.

If you prefer to mail the change, read the VSD 190 form (Change of Address for Vehicle Registration). Include a copy of your vehicle's current registration card and proof of your new address. Mail it to the IDOT address shown on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks.

You can also change your registration address in person at any IDOT facility. Bring your current registration card, proof of your new address, and a photo ID. There is no fee for an address change.

What counts as proof of your new address

Both the Secretary of State and IDOT accept the same types of documents as proof of address. The document must show your name and your new address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
  • Lease agreement or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Government mail (tax return, voter registration card, court document)
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Insurance policy or insurance bill

Do not send original documents — send copies. If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, you may be able to use a letter from your landlord or a utility company confirming your move, though policies vary. Call ahead to ask before mailing.

Scams and safety alerts

Do not pay anyone to change your address for you. The Secretary of State and IDOT do not charge for address changes, and no third-party service can do it faster or better than you can yourself. Websites that offer to "process" your address change for a fee are taking your money for something you can do free online in minutes.

Be cautious of emails or texts claiming to be from the Secretary of State or IDOT asking you to verify your address or license information. The state will not contact you by email or text to ask for personal information. If you receive such a message, do not click any links or provide any information — go directly to the official state website instead.

If you move and do not update your address, your vehicle registration renewal notice will go to your old address and you may miss the important date. You could also receive a ticket if you are stopped and your license shows an old address that does not match where you are living.

Timeline and what to expect

Online changes are processed when ready and you will see a confirmation number on your screen. You do not receive a new physical card unless you request one. Your current card remains valid even though the address on it is outdated.

Mail-in changes take two to four weeks. You will receive a confirmation letter in the mail. Again, you will not receive a new card unless you paid for a replacement.

If you need a new card with your updated address printed on it, you can request a replacement at the time of your address change. There is usually a fee for a replacement card (typically $5 to $20, depending on the type of ID). A replacement card takes the same amount of time as a regular address change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Illinois law requires you to report a change of address within a reasonable time after moving. There is no specific important date, but updating within 30 days is a safe practice. If you are stopped by police and your license shows an old address, you may face questions or citations.

Can I change my address without getting a new card?

Yes. Your current license or ID card remains valid even if the address printed on it is outdated. The state's records will show your new address, which is what matters for registration renewals and official purposes. You only get a new card if you request and pay for a replacement.

What if I moved out of state but still have an Illinois license?

You should update your address to your new out-of-state address with the Secretary of State. However, if you have moved permanently, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state instead. Keeping an Illinois license while living elsewhere can cause problems with vehicle registration and insurance.

How long does it take to get a replacement card with my new address?

Replacement cards take the same time as a regular address change: when ready confirmation online, or two to four weeks by mail. If you request a replacement card during an online address change, you may be able to track its status on the Secretary of State website.

What if my proof of address document is older than 60 days?

The Secretary of State and IDOT require proof dated within 60 days. If your documents are older, try to obtain a newer one — a recent utility bill or bank statement works well. If you cannot get a current document, call the Driver Services line or IDOT to ask about alternatives before mailing your request.