Moving · CA → WA

Moving from California to Washington

Most states give you a short window after you establish residency to transfer your driver's license and register your vehicle. Work through these in order and the rest of the move gets much easier.

Before you go

• File a USPS change of address about two weeks before moving day.
• Request records you'll need in Washington: medical, dental, school, vaccination, vet.
• Photograph valuables and check what your renter's or home policy covers in transit.
• Note your exact move-out date — it determines your California part-year tax return.

The first 30 days in Washington

1. Transfer your driver's license. Bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of Washington address.
2. Register and title your vehicle. Some states require an inspection or emissions test first, and proof of insurance that meets Washington minimums.
3. Update auto and home insurance. Rates and required coverage differ between California and Washington.
4. Register to vote. Do it once your address is settled.
5. Update employer and payroll withholding. You may owe part-year returns in both states for the year you move.

Official Washington resources

• Washington unemployment benefits office

  Official state unemployment insurance agency, filing portal and phone number.

• Washington job centers

  Free in-person help with job search, training and benefits.

• Washington motor vehicle services

  Driver's license transfer, vehicle registration and title changes.

• Washington voter registration

  Register or update your address after a move.

• Washington courts

  Court self-help, family law forms and filing information.

• Washington business registration

  Register a business entity and find state licensing requirements.

• Washington health insurance marketplace

  Coverage options after losing employer health insurance.

• USPS change of address

  Forward your mail before moving day.