Photo by Sean Benesh on Unsplash
Here is some information for newcomers to Portland that will help you settle in. Such as local utility providers, vehicle registration locations and voter registration. To start becoming acclimated, refer the Portland Relocation Guide and other community resources for all the fun things to do and places to go!
SETTING UP UTILTIES
Call a couple of weeks ahead to have utilities connected at your new home the day before or the day of your scheduled move-in (resources for phone, Internet, cable, gas, electric and other utilities are listed below.) Check to make sure the utilities have been connected, and follow up on any delays. Make sure your phone is connected, if you have a land line.
Ideally, you should have the phone company hook it up the day before you move in. Most moving companies will give you a piece of good advice. In order to prevent possible damage to electronic equipment and major appliances, these items should not be used for 24 hours after delivery. This will allow them time to adjust to room temperature.
Make sure you have payment on hand for your moving charges. Unless other billing arrangements were made in advance. most moving companies require payment upon delivery in cash, traveler’s checks, money order or cashier’s check. Personal checks are usually not accepted.
LICENSE & REGISTRATION
Relocating is a detail-oriented process that is further complicated by the fact that some laws and regulations are different in a resident’s new home than one’s old home. Never fear–we’ve provided some basic information to help newcomers to Portland settle in.
Oregon Department of Motor Vehicle Offices
Oregon DEQ Emissions Testing Stations
Washington Driver Licensing Offices
Washington Vehicle Licensing Offices
