New to Long Island? Your First-Month Checklist: DMV, Voting, Mail and Utilities
Just moved to Nassau or Suffolk? The deadlines for your NY license and car, how to update your voter address and mail, and who…
Updated October 11, 2026
For families, the school district often decides the address. Here is what New York officials say about enrolling a child after a move, and how to time the move around school.
Every child has a right to attend
The New York Attorney General and the State Education Department say students between the ages of 5 and 21 have the right to a free public school education in New York, regardless of nationality or immigration status. You must live in a school district to attend its schools for free.
Proof of residency
Schools may ask for documents that show where you live, but they must accept many kinds of proof, such as a letter from your landlord, a pay stub or tax form with your address, a utility or cell phone bill, a driver license or government ID with your address, or custody or guardianship papers. Schools may not require a Social Security number or information about immigration status to enroll a child.
Start right away, prove residency within 3 business days
When a student asks to enroll, the school must let the student begin attending as soon as possible, ideally the next school day. The family then has three business days to prove residency. If the school decides the student is not a resident, it must explain why in writing and tell you how to appeal.
Vaccine records
The New York State Department of Health publishes the immunization requirements for school entrance and attendance for each school year, including 2026-27. Ask your pediatrician for a copy of the records before you move and bring them when you register.
Long Island tips
On Long Island, a mailing address or hamlet name does not always tell you the school district, so confirm the district for the exact address before you sign a lease or contract. If you can, move during a school break, and pack a box for each child’s school things so the first week at the new school is calm.
Common questions
How fast can my child start at a new Long Island school?
The Attorney General and the State Education Department say as soon as possible, ideally the next school day after you ask to enroll.
How long do I have to prove residency for school enrollment?
Three business days after the student requests enrollment.
What documents prove residency for school in New York?
Schools must accept many kinds, such as a landlord letter, pay stub, utility bill, tax form or ID with your address.
Does a school need my Social Security number to enroll my child?
No. Schools may not require a Social Security number or immigration status information.
Get your free estimate
Call (516) 246-5901 or send the quote form on our home page with both addresses, the floors, elevator or stairs, your date and your main items. Moving Service By Two Guys is part of A & A Alliance Moving Inc, a family business since 1999, licensed and insured: NYSDOT 34875, NJPM 000930, U.S. DOT No. 967970. More on our company facts page.
Rules and services change. We checked the official links on this page on October 11, 2026; confirm on the linked page before you act.
Official sources
- NY Attorney General and State Education Department: Every New York student has the right to a free public education (PDF)
- NYS Department of Health: School immunization requirements
