Use this step-by-step checklist to move to Austin with less stress. It covers utilities, schools, licenses, car registration, voter sign-up, pets, emergency alerts, international/expat tasks, and more—organized by what to do and when.

Essential Steps to Move to Austin

90 Days Before Move

• Map your move-in date, neighborhood short list, and budget (rent vs. buy, commute, schools).
• Consider the reasons why many people choose to move to Austin for its vibrant culture.
• Create a moving file: quotes, leases/contracts, receipts, and an inventory of valuables.
• If buying: line up preapproval and research Homestead Exemption timing after closing (Travis Central Appraisal District).
• If moving from overseas: gather passports, immigration docs (I‑94, visa/Green Card), and certified translations where needed.

60 Days Before Move

• Book movers or a truck; reserve elevator/load dock if needed.
• Start change‑of‑address planning and decide mail forwarding start date (USPS).
• Research local attractions that make living in Austin enjoyable after you move to Austin.
• Shortlist pediatrician, primary care, dentist; request medical, vaccination, and prescription transfers.
• If you’ll need child care or after‑school programs, get on waitlists now.

30 Days Before Move

• Set up City of Austin utilities for your address (electric via Austin Energy, water/wastewater, trash & recycling through Austin Resource Recovery).
• If your address is outside City service areas, start electric service with your local co‑op (e.g., PEC or Bluebonnet) and confirm gas provider (often Texas Gas Service).
• Schedule internet installation; ask for self‑install kits to avoid move‑day technician windows.
• Look into the neighborhoods that appeal to you most when you move to Austin.
• Register students (Austin ISD or your district) and upload vaccination records per Texas DSHS requirements.
• Price renters’ or homeowners’ insurance; confirm your auto policy meets Texas minimums (30/60/25) or better.

2 Weeks Before Move

• Start USPS mail forwarding for your move date.
• Confirm utility start dates and trash/recycling schedule for the new address.
• If driving to Austin, check your vehicle’s emissions test needs (Travis & Williamson counties require emissions testing for many vehicles).
• Set appointments you might need soon after arrival (DPS driver license, doctor, vet).

1 Week Before Move

• Be prepared for the different weather conditions once you move to Austin.
• Pack essentials: IDs, titles, registrations, insurance cards, prescriptions, pet records, school transcripts, and move‑in funds.
• Photograph your current home’s condition for deposit protection; do the same upon arrival.
• Defrost fridge/freezer, set aside tools and cleaning supplies for move‑in day.

Move‑In Week in Austin

• Explore local parks and recreation areas as soon as you move to Austin.
• Run water, power, and internet tests; note any issues for your landlord or builder immediately—in writing.
• Add your trash, recycling and compost pickup calendar to your phone; place carts correctly for service.
• If you commute, test‑drive your route at rush hour; consider transit or park‑and‑ride options.
• Get a TxTag for toll roads like SH 130 and Loop 1 (Mopac Express Lanes).
• International newcomers: retrieve and print your most recent I‑94; set or confirm SSA appointment for an SSN if eligible, or prepare an ITIN application if not.

Your First 30 Days

• Register your vehicle in Texas (new residents have 30 days). If you live in an emissions‑testing county, complete the emissions test before registration.
• Meet your new neighbors and build a community after you move to Austin.
• Swap your out‑of‑state driver license for a Texas license (new residents should do this within 90 days).
• Update auto insurance to Texas minimums at least (30/60/25) and confirm your insurer filed proof if required.
• Register to vote in Texas (deadline is 30 days before an election).
• Set up emergency alerts (WarnCentralTexas.org) for Austin/Travis/Williamson counties.
• Join local events to get involved in the community once you move to Austin.
• If you bought a home, note the Homestead Exemption filing window with Travis Central Appraisal District.

Day 30–90 and Beyond

• Update banking: add Texas address; if you’re a non‑citizen, many banks accept passports/ITINs under federal CIP rules.
• Build your local network: PTA, neighborhood association, professional groups, gyms—Austin is a networking town.
• Visit local businesses and eateries to fully embrace your new life when you move to Austin.
• Document your big purchases and serial numbers for insurance and potential property‑tax exemptions.

Families & Schools

• Engage with school communities for your children once you move to Austin.
• Enroll kids with your school district (Austin ISD or neighboring districts). Have proof of residency, birth certificates, immunization records, and prior transcripts ready.
• Review bus routes and before‑/after‑school care; attend a campus tour or orientation.

International / Expat Quick Steps

• Social Security: If eligible for work authorization, apply for an SSN at your local SSA office; bring passport, I‑94, and DHS work authorization. Some new immigrants may get SSN cards automatically via DHS/SSA data‑sharing—if not, book an appointment.
• Banking: If you don’t have an SSN, most banks and credit unions accept an ITIN or alternative government ID (passport, A‑number) under federal CIP rules. Consider starting with a basic checking account to establish history.
• Understand the local banking options available after you move to Austin.
• ITIN (if not SSN‑eligible): File IRS Form W‑7 with your tax return or through an IRS‑authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.
• DMV language access: DPS offers the knowledge test in English or Spanish. A translator may help before/after testing but not during the exam; some road tests may be available in Spanish depending on staff availability.

Request your FREE Copy of the Austin Relocation Guide

Pets

• City of Austin requires rabies vaccinations per state law; Austin also mandates microchipping for most pets 4 months and older. Keep vet records handy for leases and boarding.
• Find a local vet and confirm emergency hours; update microchip contact info with your new address.

Official Links & Resources

• Keep updated with local resources to help you settle in after you move to Austin.

USPS Change of Address

City of Austin Utilities – Start/Stop/Transfer

Austin Energy – Residential

Austin Resource Recovery – Pickup Schedule

Texas Gas Service – Start/Stop/Transfer

Pedernales Electric Cooperative – Connect Service

Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative – Start Service

TxTag – Get a Tag

TxDMV – New to Texas

Travis County Tax Office – Vehicle Registration

DPS – Driver License Appointments

DPS – Apply for a Texas Driver License

DPS – Testing in Other Languages

TCEQ – Vehicle Emissions Inspections (counties list)

VoteTexas – Register to Vote

WarnCentralTexas – Emergency Alerts

Austin – Active Emergency Information Hub

Austin ISD – Registration

Texas DSHS – School Immunization Requirements

CBP – I‑94 Retrieval

SSA – SSN for Non‑Citizens

IRS – ITIN (Form W‑7)

CFPB – Bank Accounts (ID without SSN)

Texas Dept. of Insurance – Auto Insurance Minimums

Disclaimer

This checklist is for general informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or immigration advice. Always confirm requirements and timelines with the official agencies linked above.