Written by: Madeline Blake
Date:

The biggest confusion when it comes to moving is that this process is all about packing and transportation. When you take a closer look, you will realize there are countless other tasks that will come along, and you must be prepared for them. One of them includes your vehicle documents and other paperwork. Since you will have to do it in order to avoid further issues, it is best you know what steps to follow. Here is how to update your license and registration when you move!

Types of paperwork you will need

Your relocation plays a huge role in this process. Verified Movers suggest that the total distance is essential when planning your move, and that is the case here as well. To make things way easier simply focus on categorizing your move. As a result, you will find solutions to many issues and this entire process will be much easier. While professional movers are busy with your inventory, you can take some time to do the rest.

blue clock on the pink and blue background
It will take some time to complete this process, so make sure you start on time

All relocations can be divided into two main categories and each one has its own traits. Knowing which one yours belongs to will help you update your license and registration when you move. Your new home can be somewhere in the area or across the USA. And since time plays a huge role during this process, you must know exactly what to do.

Update your license and registration when you move locally

This is probably one of those situations that would happen anyway. Local relocations are short and they are usually less stressful. Once you make all arrangments with the movers and calculate how much does a local move costs, focus on your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is clean and ready as some states will inspect its maintenance before updating your license and registration. When you finish with that part you can proceed to the next step.

What to do:

For moving within your state, the process is much easier. Prepare your motorcycle or car and start focusing on the paperwork. You will need to provide a couple of additional information to a certain department and wait for them to issue new documents. When doing this don’t forget to:

  • Change the address for both license and registration
  • Provide additional information about the new area
  • Wait for documents to be issued as this process can last up to 30 days in some states

When moving locally, your relocation surely won’t last that much. With the right help of movers, you will be in your new home quickly. As you may need your vehicle upon arriving make sure to start this process on time.

Update your license and registration when you move long-distance

On the other hand, if you are moving long-distance you will have much more tasks on your hands. If you are going to popular areas by the coast, hiring movers will be essential. For example, top movers in Long Beach know exactly how to avoid traffic jams and get you to your destination on time. They will also advise that you prepare your vehicle before the moving-out day.

person driving a car
Your main goal is to make your vehicle ready for usage after moving

Long-distance relocations are famous for requiring a strategic plan and considering you will need your vehicle at your new place, you must begin on time. However, if you are moving and don’t plan on using your vehicle right away, you may find good vehicle storage for it. Always try to make things easier during relocation and be as pragmatic as possible.

Process of updating license and registration

Begin with gathering as much information about the place you are moving to as possible. Not all the states require same documents, and visiting their official websites should be your first step. The process of preparing your vehicle for an interstate move is slightly different as well, so don’t ignore it. Once you find your new home here is what you should do:

  • Go to the nearest state facility for an eye test and other examinations
  • Provide the new address for license and registration
  • Make sure you have your ID and passport with you. Some states like Alabama will ask for copies as well, so take them just in case.
  • Calculate and pay the fee

To update your license and registration when you move long-distance it may take up to 90 days in some states. This indicates that you must start on time to avoid not being able to drive your vehicle after the move.

Other things to know

Even if you are on the other coast of the USA, all these rules will be pretty much the same. Expect differences when it comes to fees as some states on the East Coast charge it according to age. Top movers in Raleigh can provide more details on this in case your relocation takes place in this area.

While you are waiting for documents to be updated and issues, focus on your vehicle. Just like many professional movers will advise, don’t use it to pack and transport your items. There will be many risks included and with movers by your side there is no need for that. Before your relocation begins, make sure your vehicle is clean and spacious. If you are moving with your family, make it comfortable and cozy especially if you are going on a longer trip. There is no better feeling than enjoying some of the best American landscapes on the way to your new home.

person packing documents in the folder as an example of what to do before you update license and registration when you move
Keep personal documents close to you as you will need them to update your license and registration when you move

Updating your license and registration is not that hard

With a couple of good pieces of advice, your vehicle will be ready for use. If you don’t have time to update your license and registration when you move, you must come up with another solution quickly as postponing relocation is something to avoid. The final price may be higher and your general experience of the process won’t be the same.