# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> General Travel Prep

How to Move to Tennessee

Moving is a big decision many people consider at some point in their lives. Whether you decide to move for work or school, to be closer to loved ones or to gain a new perspective on life, moving to Tennessee will present you with an array of new opportunities. Tennessee offers low living costs, a temperate climate and low crime rates. Tennessee is also the only state with no durational requirement, which means you can establish yourself as a legal resident as soon as you arrive.

Moving truck or trailer
Driver's license
Map or GPS system
Moving boxes

Instructions

- 1
  Research your move to Tennessee. Decide which part of the state you want to live in by investigating job opportunities, housing costs, public transportation options, child care availability, school rankings and any other needs.
- 2
  Determine your budget. Moving to Tennessee will require you to start saving for initial transportation costs, housing costs and different prices than you're accustomed to paying for basic goods. Test your costs by using the moving calculator at Relocation.com.
- 3
  Visit Tennessee to see the areas in which you may decide to live. Interact with locals who can tell you more about what to expect when you move.
- 4
  Apply for jobs or schools if you plan to work or study in Tennessee. Start the application process as soon as you decide to move, as processing times for securing a job or being accepted into school vary widely. Read the classified sections of major newspapers like The Tennessean, The Knoxville News Sentinel or The Commercial Appeal for job leads. TennesseeJobs.com and Craigslist.org both list local employment opportunities.
- 5
  Search for housing. Decide which neighborhood you want to live in and whether you will be purchasing a home, renting or purchasing land.
- 6
  Decide on your method of transportation to Tennessee. Research costs of renting a moving van or trailer if you plan to move yourself. Research labor costs if you plan to hire professional movers.
- 7
  Pack your belongings into boxes. Donate items you don't want to bring to Tennessee with you.
- 8
  Plot your route to Tennessee if you will be driving from another state. Purchase a road map or GPS system for simple driving directions.
- 9
  Register for a Tennessee state driver's license within 30 days of arrival if you drive. Visit the Tennessee state website at TN.gov or call (615) 253-5221 for information on how to apply for a new resident license. You will also be able to register your vehicle and register to vote at the same time.
- 10
  Set up health care. Visit the Department of Health's webpage at TN.gov for information on local health and dental clinics as well as insurance plans.