San Antonian 101: A How-To Guide for New Residents

Welcome to San Antonio! Whether you're relocating for work, family, or just a fresh start, getting settled in a new city can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate life in the Alamo City—from registering your car to finding the best local spots.

The Essentials

Voter Registration

Make your voice heard by registering to vote in Bexar County. You can check your eligibility, find polling locations, and preview upcoming elections here.

Driver’s Licenses & Vehicle Registration

New Texas residents need to update their driver’s license and vehicle registration within 90 days of moving. Here’s what you’ll need:

To Get a Texas Driver’s License

✅ Proof of legal status (passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card)
✅ Social Security document
✅ Two documents confirming your Texas residential address

📍 Make an appointment online at the Texas DPS website to avoid long wait times.

To Register Your Car in Texas

✅ Proof of Texas car insurance
✅ Driver’s license, passport, or ID
✅ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and Odometer Verification form

📍 Bexar County Tax Office (233 N. Pecos La Trinidad) handles vehicle registration on a walk-in basis. The initial registration fee is $50.75.

Healthcare in San Antonio

Finding a primary care provider is one of the first steps to settling into a new city. Some top-rated options in San Antonio include:
🏥 Gonzaba Medical Group
🏥 University Health System
🏥 Centro Med

💡 Pro Tip: Use DocSpot to filter physicians based on location, insurance, language, and patient reviews.

Educational Needs

School Registration

If you have school-aged children, enroll them in one of Bexar County’s school districts—like San Antonio ISD. You’ll need:
✅ Proof of residency
✅ Student’s birth certificate
✅ Immunization records

📍 Make an appointment at your zoned school to complete the process.

For private school options, check out Fun 4 Alamo Kids for a full list of schools.

Library Card Registration

A San Antonio Public Library card grants you access to:
📚 Free genealogy research
🎬 Movie streaming & audiobooks
📖 E-books & online databases

📍 Visit your nearest branch with proof of identity and address or apply for an eCard online (valid for 90 days).

Home Necessities

Recycling & Trash Pickup

♻️ San Antonio offers curbside recycling—learn about bin placement, pickup times, and accepted materials here.

Setting Up Utilities

💡 Electricity: CPS Energy allows you to set up an account or update your address online. Bonus: A free virtual energy audit can help reduce your bill.

Internet Providers

San Antonio has plenty of options for staying connected:
📶 Spectrum – $49.99/month
📶 AT&T Fiber – $35/month
📶 Google Fiber – $70/month
📶 Viasat – $49.99/month

The Ultimate San Antonio Initiation

You’ve got your Texas driver’s license and 210 area code, but you’re not officially a San Antonian until you’ve experienced these local must-dos:

🎉 Fiesta San Antonio

The biggest party of the year—a city-wide celebration filled with:
🎭 Colorful parades
🎶 Live music
🌮 Iconic food (don’t miss chicken on a stick!)

🗓️ April 2025 (Dates vary annually)

☕ Coffee Culture

San Antonio is home to amazing coffee shops that double as co-working spaces and social hubs. Grab a cup at:
🔥 Local Coffee
🔥 Estate Coffee Co.
🔥 Berry to Bean

🛍️ The Historic Pearl

Originally the Pearl Brewery, this trendy mixed-use district offers:
🍽️ Top-tier restaurants like Best Quality Daughter & Southerleigh
🎭 Free seasonal movie nights at Slab Cinema
🛍️ Boutiques like Feliz Modern & Dos Carolinas

📍 Location: 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Final Thoughts

Moving to San Antonio is an exciting adventure, and this guide will help you navigate your transition smoothly. Whether you're registering your car, finding a doctor, or looking for your next brunch spot, we’ve got you covered.

💡 Welcome to the Alamo City—where history, culture, and community come together!

Kristen Smith, Realtor Best Realtor in San Antonio