Moving to a new city involves dozens of administrative tasks that are easy to overlook in the excitement (and chaos) of relocation. El Paso has a few Texas-specific requirements and local resources that every new resident should know about. This checklist covers everything from the week you arrive through your first 90 days as an El Paso homeowner.
Before Your Move: Do These First
- Hire a licensed real estate agent familiar with El Paso's specific neighborhoods and market — ProGen Real Estate at (915) 691-1082
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage if financing your purchase
- Research El Paso school districts (El Paso ISD, Socorro ISD, Ysleta ISD, San Elizario ISD, Canutillo ISD) if applicable
- Research homeowner's insurance rates — get quotes from 3+ providers before closing
- Set up mail forwarding through USPS
- Notify banks, employers, and important accounts of address change
Week 1: Utilities Setup
- El Paso Electric — transfer or establish service at elpasotexas.gov (serves most of El Paso metro)
- El Paso Water — call 915-594-5500 to establish water/sewer service
- Texas Gas Service — 1-800-700-2443 for natural gas service (if applicable)
- Internet/cable: providers include Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and Windstream depending on your neighborhood
- Trash/recycling: managed by City of El Paso Environmental Services (included in utility billing for most city residents)
- El Paso Electric often requires a deposit from new customers — budget $150 to $300
Within 30 Days: Texas Driver's License
Texas law requires new residents to obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency. In practice, do this as soon as your new address is confirmed. You'll need: your current out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency (utility bill or lease/deed), Social Security card or verification, proof of US citizenship or lawful status, and payment (approximately $33 for a standard license).
El Paso Driver License offices are located at multiple locations including 9555 Alameda Ave. and 1200 Westwind Dr. Appointments are strongly recommended and available online through TxDPS (dps.texas.gov). Walk-in waits can be 2 to 4 hours.
Within 30 Days: Vehicle Registration
Texas requires vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency. You'll need proof of Texas liability insurance, a passing vehicle safety inspection (now required again in El Paso County — check current status at txdmv.gov), and payment of registration fees plus any applicable county fees. El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collector offices handle vehicle registration at multiple locations. Budget $70 to $120 for registration.
Before April 30: Homestead Exemption
If you purchased your El Paso home and it is your primary residence, file for the homestead exemption with the El Paso Central Appraisal District (EPCAD) by April 30. The standard exemption reduces your home's taxable value by $100,000 for school district taxes. Seniors (65+) receive additional exemptions. The form is available at epcad.org and can be filed online or by mail. This is one of the most valuable things a new Texas homeowner can do — don't miss the deadline.
Schools Enrollment
El Paso has multiple independent school districts. Your home's location determines which district and campus your children attend. To enroll: contact the district's registration office, provide proof of residence (deed, utility bill), immunization records, prior school records/transcripts, and a birth certificate. El Paso ISD has an online enrollment portal. Socorro ISD and Ysleta ISD also have streamlined enrollment processes. Start this process 2 to 4 weeks before the school year begins to ensure proper placement.
Voter Registration
Register to vote in El Paso County by the deadline (30 days before an election). You can register online at Texas.gov, at any DPS office, or by mail. Texas voter ID requirements apply — a Texas driver's license or ID card satisfies the requirement.
Getting to Know El Paso
- Explore Franklin Mountains State Park — the largest urban state park in the US, right in your backyard
- Try the local food scene: H&H Car Wash (historic breakfast), L&J Café (oldest restaurant in EP), Cattleman's Steakhouse in Fabens
- Check out the El Paso Museum of Art and History Museum downtown
- Attend a Locomotive FC (USL Championship soccer) or Chihuahuas (AAA baseball) game
- Visit the El Paso Zoo and the Buddy Holly Museum
- Cross the border to Juárez for dinner at least once — it's an experience unique to EP life
ProGen Real Estate (TREC #619091) serves new El Paso residents from their first home search through closing and beyond. Broker Josue R. Jimenez and the team are a resource even after the transaction closes. Call (915) 691-1082 anytime you have questions about your new home or city.