Welcome to The Lone Star State!
Relocating to a new area can be quite stressful. There are many aspects to establishing residency and it is our goal to simplify the transition period with the following links to useful information and guides.
It is necessary to have vehicles inspected prior to registration which must be completed within 30 days of arrival. For more information about Vehicle Registration
New Texas residents can legally drive with a valid, unexpired driver license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canadian province, or qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving to Texas. Prior to the end of the 90 day grace period, a new Texas resident must apply for a Texas license in person at any driver license office to continue to drive legally. For more information about Driver’s License
To use any toll road in Texas, you will need an EZ TAG which must be mounted on the windshield of your vehicle. EZ TAG is meant to be used in a vehicle you own and that will remain on your account on a permanent basis. For more information about EZ Tags
UTILITY SERVICE PROVIDERS
In Houston, one company (namely Centerpoint Energy) owns the infrastructure, but there are a multitude of companies that you can purchase the actual electricity from. This framework allows consumers to shop for electricity in an open market to find the lowest rate or find an electricity provider that delivers electricity from sources you prefer, like from green technologies. The city of Houston and the state of Texas have created some excellent resource for shopping rates and providers. For more information about Power to Choose or Houston Consumer Choice to get started.
GAS
Centerpoint Energy is the provider in Houston for most households. You can set-up your natural gas service at centerpointenergy.com or call (713) 659-2111.
WATER
To contact the City of Houston and set-up your water service at Houston Water Bills or call (713) 371-1400.
ADDITIONAL HELPFUL LINKS
• Harris County Tax Assessor
• Voter Registration
• Social Security
• Texas School Guide
• The Great Schools of Houston, Texas
• Harris County Military Help Desk
• Veterans Affairs
• It is the law for all cats and dogs over three months of age and living in unincorporated Harris County to wear a Harris County license tag and to have a current rabies vaccination. Failure to comply may result in fines up to $500 per offense. Must have a valid Texas Driver’s License to register your pet. Learn more at Barc to license a pet in Texas.
• Houston Neighborhoods Guide
• Harris County Housing and Community Development
• City of Houston Planning and and Development
