What You Should Know About Moving to Georgia: Shipping Your Car & More
Georgia may be famous for its peaches, but this state also boasts an expanding economy, top-rated schools, and southern hospitality that make it worth moving to for those seeking a fresh start with diverse culture.
Housing costs in Georgia are significantly less than the national average; however, you should expect a slower pace of life and an altered sense of punctuality.
If you’re moving from another state, Georgia requires transport of both your vehicle and personal belongings. Finding a dependable car shipping companies in Georgia will make the move stress-free and save time. Reviews online are an effective way of doing this comparison, while insurance will protect against unexpected events during transport.
Finding a New Home
Home ownership can be one of the biggest investments you’ll make, so take the time to research Georgia and identify a city that suits your family’s needs best. From urban lifestyle in downtown Atlanta to more rural settings with plenty of room for kids’ play, you have many choices from which to select your new residence.
Once your options have been narrowed down it’s time to begin the home-buying process: typically this requires gathering a down payment, covering closing costs and signing documents – at which point, your keys to your new home await you – get ready!
The Peach State is an ideal home for families, boasting top-rated schools and family-friendly attractions. According to this article, the state is currently boasting an expansive job market, picturesque scenery and southern charm, over 100,000 people move annually into Georgia. Residents enjoy various tax benefits like accessing some parks free of charge as well as in-state tuition for public colleges.
Georgia offers more than great amenities and jobs; it is home to numerous world-renowned universities and professional sports teams, historic districts, quaint neighborhoods and scenic natural attractions for you to explore – plus it boasts lower cost-of-living than many other states!
Housing-wise, Oregon’s real estate market is flourishing with home prices steadily increasing for the past 10 years. To avoid paying more than necessary when buying your next home, be sure to do your research beforehand and be pre-approved by a lender before purchasing anything.
Getting a Driver’s License
Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) assists drivers in acquiring or renewing learner’s permits, ID cards, and licenses. Their offices can be found throughout each county and customers can take advantage of all types of licensing services both online and at their office locations. Customers with valid licenses from other states can transfer them into Georgia within 30 days after becoming residents if applicable by taking both written knowledge tests and road skills tests if applicable.
Teenagers should make an appointment and bring all necessary documents to DDS in advance of taking a road test. Proof of Identity, Georgia DDS Certificate of School Enrollment Form DS-1 from their school, certification of high school completion or GED certificate (or equivalent diploma). Those under 18 must also bring with them their parents/legal guardian to sign consent forms, which may be revoked at any point prior to turning 18.
Bring proof of your Social Security number and residency. The DDS website lists accepted documents to confirm your identity, U.S. citizenship or lawful residency in the country if not. Also hand in any out-of-state permits or ID cards you hold.
Georgia driver’s licenses are valid for eight years, and to renew them you must pass both a vision exam and knowledge test on driving laws. To be eligible to renew them in your current state you must possess an unblemished driving record; any violations on it require completion of a defensive driving course in order to clear them up.
Getting a Passport
No matter why you are moving to Georgia, whether for business or pleasure, making sure all aspects of becoming a resident is taken care of is important for enjoying everything the state has to offer. This includes everything from updating credit cards and driver’s licenses and registrations through to fulfilling residency requirements so you can fully experience all it has to offer.
As part of establishing residency, one of the initial steps should be establishing your primary residence in your new area. Most state agencies require proof of address such as a bank statement or utility bill as evidence that shows where you currently live. You’ll also want to sign up with a mail forwarding service in order to make sure all bills and documents arrive at their new addresses; you can do this via USPS online.
If you aren’t already a citizen of Georgia, making investments can still help qualify as residency. One option would be buying non-agricultural real estate worth over $300,000. An appraisal report will need to be provided. Alternatively, high net-worth individuals (HNWIs) can qualify by investing in certain areas of the economy and qualifying as permanent residents.
As soon as possible, relocate to Georgia and fulfill all residency requirements – this way you will enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having covered every avenue in establishing residency there.
