New to Austin

Your first-weeks checklist

1. Say salam to the community

   Tell us a little about your family and we add you to the IMATX WhatsApp group. Ibu-ibu have their own pengajian, and our Qur'an study materials are open to everyone online. Or come to the next gathering.

   Join the communitySee events

2. Find your nearest masjid

   Thirteen masjids from Georgetown to Kyle, with prayer times and directions. You can also search by your city.

   Find a masjidSearch masjids by city

3. Lapor diri with the consulate

   Indonesian citizens: register that you live here on the Peduli WNI portal. KJRI Houston, the consulate for Texas, asks for it before passport services.

   Lapor diri at Peduli WNIKJRI Houston details

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on kemlu.go.id/houston.

4. Driver licence

   Texas DPS says new residents can drive on a valid licence from another US state or a qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving. Register your car in Texas first, then book an appointment for your Texas licence.

   DPS: moving to TexasBook a DPS appointment

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on dps.texas.gov.

5. School for the kids

   Your home address decides your public school district. You can also look at the Islamic schools and the weekend schools at the masjids.

   Austin ISDRound Rock ISDLeander ISDPflugerville ISDIslamic and weekend schools

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on each district's website.

6. Social Security

   If you are allowed to work in the US, you can apply for a Social Security number. It is free. Read SSA's page for noncitizens to see what to bring.

   SSA: numbers for noncitizens (PDF)Find an SSA office

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on ssa.gov.

7. Library card

   The Austin Public Library card is free if you live in Austin or some nearby areas; their page tells you if your address counts. You can apply online.

   Get a library card

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on library.austintexas.gov.

8. Getting around and city help

   CapMetro runs the buses and trains; plan a trip on their site or app. For city services like trash, potholes or noise, call 3-1-1.

   CapMetro trip plannerCall 3-1-1Austin 3-1-1

   Checked 24 Oct 2026 on capmetro.org and austintexas.gov.

9. Health care, if you have no insurance yet

   Some clinics see people with or without insurance, and Travis County has a program to help pay. See the health care list on our Get help page.

   Health care

10. Save the urgent numbers

    911 for emergencies, 988 for a mental health crisis, and the funeral guide. We hope you never need them.

    Urgent helpWhen someone passes away

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