Before You Arrive in Houston

1. Secure Housing

• Work with an apartment locator if you’re unfamiliar with Houston’s neighborhoods.
  
• If you have rental or credit challenges, consider a Second Chance Leasing Program like Ready Lease.
• Confirm lease start date, pet policies, and utility responsibilities.

2.Plan Your Move

• Hire licensed movers or rent a moving truck in advance.
  
• Label boxes by room and list essential items for quick unpacking.
  
• Confirm elevator or loading dock reservations for high-rise apartments.
  

3. Transfer or Cancel Utilities at Current Residence

• Disconnect or transfer services like water, electric, gas, internet, and waste pickup.
  
• Schedule mail forwarding at USPS.com to start at least a week before moving.
  

4.Collect Important Documents

Bring physical or digital copies of the following:

• Social Security card & birth certificates
  
• Lease agreements
  
• Utility setup confirmation
  
• Medical and vaccination records
  
• School transcripts (if enrolling children)
  
• Driver’s license, vehicle title, and insurance info
  

After Arriving in Houston

1. Set Up Utilities & Essential Services‍

Utilities vary by provider and zip code, but here are Houston's main services:

• ‍Electricity: TXU, Reliant, Gexa, Just Energy (Houston is a deregulated market)‍
• Water: City of Houston Public Works: houstontx.gov/publicworks
• Gas: CenterPoint Energy
• Trash/ Recycling: City of Houston Solid Waste: houstontx.gov/solidwaste
• Internet/TV: Xfinity, AT&T Fiber, Astound (formerly WOW), Spectrum

💡Pro Tip: Set up electric and water service at least 1–2 business days before your move-in date.

2. Update Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration

You must complete both within 30 days of establishing residency in Texas.

A. Get a Texas Driver’s License

• Visit a Texas DPS (Department of Public Safety) office
  
• Bring: proof of identity, proof of citizenship/ lawful presence,  out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency, Social Security number
  
• Pass vision test (written/driving test may be waived)‍
• Schedule a DPS appointment

B. Register Your Vehicle

• Get a vehicle inspection from a certified Texas inspection station
  
• Bring the inspection report, proof of insurance, and title to your local County Tax Office
  
• Pay registration fees and receive Texas plates‍
• Find your local registration office

3. Enroll Children in School

School zoning in Houston is based on your home address.

Steps:

• Find your zoned school via the school district’s website or GreatSchools.org
  
• Prepare: birth certificate, proof of address (lease or utility bill), immunization records, previous school records
  

Major Houston-Area School Districts:

• Houston ISD – Largest district in Texas
  
• Katy ISD – Top-ranked public schools
  
• Cypress-Fairbanks ISD (CFISD) – Highly rated and growing
  
• Fort Bend ISD – Covers Sugar Land, Missouri City
  
• Clear Creek ISD – Ideal for families in Clear Lake and Southeast Houston
  
• Aldine, Alief, Spring, Pasadena ISDs – Vary by neighborhood
• View Houston ISD Enrollment Info

4. Register to Vote in Texas

• You can register when you update your driver's license, or online at VoteTexas.gov
  
• Texas has strict voting ID laws—make sure your license matches your current address
  

5. Pet Registration

• City of Houston requires all dogs and cats to be registered and vaccinated against rabies.
• Tags are issued through BARC Animal Shelter: houstontx.gov/barc
  

Bonus: Essentials to Locate After Moving

• Nearest grocery stores: HEB, Kroger, Fiesta, Whole Foods
  
• Emergency care: Find the closest urgent care, ER, or 24/7 pharmacy
  
• Public transportation: METRO buses and light rail (buy a Q Card)
  
• Auto shops: Schedule a car inspection/oil change shortly after arrival
  
• Local DMV & DPS: For appointments or walk-ins (early is best)
  

Welcome to Houston! 🎉

Moving from out of state can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, Houston offers a warm, affordable, and opportunity-rich place to call home. Whether you're starting fresh, relocating for work, or seeking second chance housing, Ready Lease is here to help make your transition seamless.

Need help finding an apartment that works with your background, income, or credit? Call us at (713) 322-4799 or get started with our pre-screen form online.