Relocating for a Year
I have a hunch about the answer, but I’d appreciate your input…
I’m moving from Illinois to Wisconsin for a year, and I just renewed my Illinois license, plates, and insurance.
If I don’t obtain a Wisconsin license or update my Illinois address, would my car insurance become void or fail to provide coverage?
I know several friends who maintain their Illinois licenses after moving to different states, but I’m curious about the implications if they were to get into a car accident.
Thanks in advance for your help!
When you move to a new state, it’s generally required to update your information, including your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and car insurance, to reflect your current residence. Here’s what you should consider:
Insurance Coverage: If your insurance company is aware that you’ve moved to a different state, they may adjust your rates or require you to get a policy in your new state. If you don’t update your address and something happens (like an accident), your claim could potentially be denied due to misrepresentation. It’s crucial to check with your insurance provider to see how they handle this situation.
Legal Requirements: Most states require new residents to obtain a state driver’s license and register their vehicles within a certain timeframe (usually within 30-90 days). Ignoring these requirements could lead to penalties or fines.
Accident Implications: If your friends have an IL license but reside in another state, they may face similar issues if they get into an accident. Their insurance may not cover them properly if the insurance policy is based on an outdated address.
In summary, it’s best to update your driver’s license and car insurance shortly after moving to ensure you’re compliant with state laws and to prevent any potential issues with your coverage. It might be inconvenient, especially after just renewing your IL documents, but it will provide peace of mind.