Moving to Virginia: Save 55% on Moving Services

Your Guide to Virginia Movers & Moving to Virginia

Did you know that Virginia has one of the most balanced economies in the entire nation and that its unemployment rate is significantly lower than the national average? And have you heard that Virginia is among the states that invests the least amount of money in the fine arts as compared with the rest of the nation? If you’re moving to Virginia, you may be too tied up in the everyday elements of the move to get a full understanding of exactly what you’re getting into. You may be spending so much time looking for Virginia movers, for example, that you’ve forgotten to find out about the state’s school system. If this sounds familiar, don’t panic – I’ve compiled a Virginia moving guide that will help you prepare for life in Virginia, so that by the time you actually arrive you’ll be well-informed and ready to set up your new life.

Choosing Virginia Movers

One distinct advantage of moving to Virginia is that the state has a helpful Virginia Movers & Warehousemen’s Association that can help you find reliable Virginia moving companies. Not only can choosing a certified Virginia moving service will help create a more efficient move, but you can find information on the VWMA website about the specifics of the moving industry as they pertain to Virginia movers, so that you’ll know whether potential Virginia moving companies are being completely honest with you. You may also want to cross-reference any Virginia movers that you’re interested in with information from the Better Business Bureau’s database to make sure that the company’s record is clear there as well.

The Virginia School System

If you are moving to Virginia with children, you will be thrilled to learn that Virginia has consistently ranked among the best educational systems in the country. In fact, 9 of the state’s schools have been ranked within the top 100 in the country by Newsweek. In addition to having impressive public schools, Virginia also houses various private schools and magnet schools, as well as programs that are designed specifically for gifted children.

Finally, it should be noted that Virginia houses 167 colleges and universities, including the University of Virginia which is ranked among the top public colleges in the country.

Driving Regulations and Licensing

The minimum age to receive a driver’s license in the state of Virginia is 16 and 3 months. You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to apply for a learner’s permit. Transferring your license from an out-of-state license should be done as quickly as possible upon moving to Virginia. The transfer of your car title and vehicle registration must be completed within 30 days of moving to Virginia. You will be required to submit your valid out-of-state license as well as another form of identification when applying for a Virginia driver’s license. Licenses for applicants under age 18 will expire on the applicant’s birthday. All other licenses will expire after 8 years. The price of the license depends on the length of its validity, and costs $4 per year of licensing. In other words, if you are over age 20 and applying for a standard license, you will be required to pay $32. It is also useful to note that you can register to vote at any DMV, and doing so once you’re already there will reduce your headache when voting season approaches.

Marriage Rules and Regulations

There is a reason that Virginia’s state motto is “Virginia is for Lovers.” Not only does the state provide a scenic backdrop for an outdoor wedding, but it makes it extremely easy for people from throughout the country to get married within its borders. Unlike in certain parts of Nevada where a marriage license can cost up to $60, a marriage license in Virginia costs only $30. You must pay for your marriage license with cash. Although Virginia does not allow proxy marriages or same-sex unions, it does permit cousin marriage. Neither Virginia residency nor blood tests are required to get married in Virginia.

There’s no question that moving to Virginia will require a bit of research, advanced planning and patience. But it’s reassuring to know that on the whole, it is easy for new residents to complete Virginia’s requisite paperwork so that they can begin to enjoy the state immediately upon arrival.