What are Moving Permits and the reasons to get one?

Moving check list
  • Author: Mohsin Khan
  • Posted On: December 8, 2022
  • Updated On: July 11, 2023

Moving is a huge job, and it’s easy to forget about some of the steps that need to be taken before you can proceed. One of those steps is applying for moving permits.

If you’re not familiar with moving permits, don’t worry! We’ll get into everything you need to know about them in this article. You should always have moving permits when transporting your possessions across the country.

In addition, it is highly recommended that you follow the laws of the state where you are driving and local ordinances.

The following information will give you a better understanding of why getting moving permits is essential before traveling with your vehicle.

Do you need a permit to move?

Moving permits are required in some areas, but not all. The move permit process differs depending on whether you’re moving within your own or another state. If you’re planning to move your household goods across borders, you’ll need to get a passport and visa for each family member, as well as proof that they’ve been vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).

It’s important to know whether or not moving permits are required before starting the process of getting one because it can be time-consuming and expensive if there’s no other option but to apply for one after beginning your relocation project.

What is a moving permit?

A moving permit is a document that confirms you have permission to move. The United States Department of Transportation requires this document for any vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds or exceeding 20 feet in length, width or height (they’re called dimensions in the US).

Your moving permit is good for one year and will either be free or cost around $20. If you’re moving across state lines, the fee will be $20 USD; if it’s within the same state, there won’t be any charge whatsoever.

It is also worth considering where you can park a vehicle if you cannot unload it in a few hours. When I moved from Chicago, I found long term parking in Los Angeles that was affordable and secure. It enabled me to leave my vehicle parked securely until I was settled and unload the remaining items at my leisure. A lifesaver!

How do you get moving permits?

The first step in getting your moving permits is to apply for them at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can apply online or in person at a DMV office. If you live in California, you will also need to have your car inspected by a licensed mechanic and take a driving test. The type of permit required depends on what state you are traveling through:

In California: If your vehicle is registered with the CA DMV, then it should be covered by insurance and therefore do not require additional coverage during the trip. However, if your vehicle is registered out-of-state, it may need additional insurance coverage while driving on CA highways.

Where do I go to get a moving permit?

The best place to get a moving permit depends on where you’re moving. If you’re moving within the same county, then it’s up to that local government. But if you’re moving across state lines, contact your new state’s DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or DOT (Department of Transportation).

  • Check with your local city hall or county office for more information about getting a moving permit in your area.

Do I need more than one moving permit?

Many moving companies can help you with your relocation. But if you are doing it yourself, you’ll need to apply for a permit and follow the road rules.

Whether or not you need a permit will depend on your move. For example, if you’re relocating within your state or city, there’s typically no need for one.

However, if you’re moving across state lines and all of your belongings will be in interstate commerce (say, if they’re going by boat), then yes: You’ll need a permit—and there are strict guidelines in place surrounding how long it takes to receive one from each state’s DOT office (for example It takes approximately three weeks).

When should I get a moving permit?

If you’re moving your home or business, it’s crucial to find out if you need a permit from the city or county. You may be required to get a permit for things like parking and storage. If you don’t know what kind of permit is needed for your move, contact your local municipality before making any plans.

How much does a moving permit cost?

Moving permits in the US vary greatly depending on where you’re moving. State and local fees can range from as little as $50 to as much as $1,000. However, the cost of a moving permit is usually minor compared with the total price of your move. It’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve done everything by the book, especially when getting something like an address change approved by your city or county government.

Moving permits are an important

Moving permits are essential to any relocation, so make sure you have them. If you’re moving from one city to another in the same state or from one state to another, you don’t need a moving permit. You won’t even need one if you’re just driving across town with your car and personal belongings. But if your move crosses state or county lines and involves more than personal items (including vehicles), it’s time to start shopping for a moving permit.

Moving permits are also required for large-scale moves like those made by military families who frequently relocate because of their job status; some states are stricter than others when it comes to these types of relocations, as well as international moves made by US citizens who travel abroad often on business or vacation.

Even if these aren’t things that apply directly to most people reading this article right now, it’s worth knowing about them so that when other people ask about them later down the road, we’ll be able to help out without having done any research!

Moving to a new city is a big deal, and it’s bound to be stressful. But as long as you know what you’re doing and how much time there is before your move, it can be an exciting time full of new adventures!

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Author: Mohsin Khan

Mohsin has worked as one of the experienced editors with ConstructionHow since 2020 with a total span of 5 years of experience in business PR, boasting a remarkable professional trajectory, he has collaborated with entrepreneurs and startups, and certain publications over the last few years. His unwavering interest lies in the construction industry and related materials. He believes in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing buildings, and homes that fall under the right budget. With a wide range of experience in construction, he also tapped into DIY and home improvement projects based on his extensive set of knowledge in the industry.

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