Getting Established

There are so many aspects to establishing life in a new area that it is often easy to overlook some very important details.

AUTOMOBILE LICENSING AND REGISTRATION

New drivers and all new residents must take both a written exam and a driving test. New residents can waive the written and driving tests by presenting a valid driver’s license from another state within 30 days after becoming a Washington resident. A six year license costs $89 (a $35 application fee plus a $54 issuance fee.) For information, (360) 902-3900, www.dol.wa.gov.

When you move to Washington, you have 30 days to title and register your vehicle after it arrives in the state. Once you do so, you’ll be issued Washington state license plates. You may title and register your vehicle in Washington by mail or at a local vehicle licensing office. Visit www.dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/moving. html for details on requirements and fees. For questions call (360) 902-3770.

A $15 vehicle emission test is required every other year for vehicles between 5 and 25 years old. Motorcycles, scooters, and some hybrids rated at 50 miles per gallon in-city are exempt. (360) 407-6856, www.emissiontestwa.com.

PETS

If you own animals, acquaint yourself with the animal laws in your new county. Remember to license your pets. They are also in a new area and if lost, a license will help identify you as the owner. In King County, call (206) 296-2712 or visit www.kingcounty.gov/pets.

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORS

The right professional can provide information to make your relocation go more smoothly and to help you look out for your best interests.

Insurance Advice: Be it auto, homeowners, renter, health, disability or another personal insurance need, a change of address (especially one from out of state) may require new coverage. To find a local agent, ask for referrals from your previous agent, coworkers, or friends. For more information, contact the State’s Office of the Insurance Commissioner at www.insurance.wa.gov or call their Consumer Hotline at (800) 562-6900.

Legal Advice: Even with a valid will from another state, consult a lawyer to verify that Washington’s community property laws will not affect your intentions for the final disposition of your estate. These local County Bar Associations offer referral services: King County, (206) 267-7010. Tacoma/Pierce County, (253) 383-3432. Snohomish County, (425) 388-3018. In Kitsap County, call the Kitsap County Attorney Referral line, (360) 373-2426.

Medical Advice: Moving more often than not means finding new health care providers and the best time to think about that is before you need care. Fortunately, this region abounds with first-class clinics, hospitals, research facilities, and practitioners. For information, refer to our “Staying Healthy” section.

Tax Advice: Relocating can have ramifications when tax time rolls around. Three major points of consideration are the sale of a home, the purchase of a home, and the cost of moving for a new job. All three have reporting requirements that can be explained by a tax advisor or by obtaining the following IRS Publications: 521 – Moving Expenses, 523 – Selling Your Home, and 530 – Tax Information For Homeowners. Don’t forget to keep good records— this is key to taking the deductions that will save you tax dollars!

VOTER REGISTRATION

If you are new to Washington, or if you have moved within the state from one county to another, you need to register in order to vote. Eligible voters must meet the following criteria:

1. You are a U.S. citizen. 2. You are a Washington resident. 3. You are 18 or older by election day. 4. You retain your civil rights.

Register to vote at the clerk’s office at city hall, county elections offices, Drivers Licensing Offices, or the Washington Secretary of State at www.sos.wa. gov/elections. For information call the State Voter Hotline, (800) 448-4881.

WELCOME HOME

Putting down roots in a new place can be challenging. Our best advice is to get involved—volunteer, join a club or organization, take a class—find something that interests you. As you make new friends, keep in touch with old ones. Invite them to visit. Playing tour guide is a great way to get to know your new home!