Moving across state lines comes with a lot of moving parts. You want utilities on, cars legal in North Carolina, and trash day figured out before the boxes arrive. If you are closing soon on a home in Apex, a clear plan will save you hours and prevent last‑minute stress.
This guide walks you through local utility setup, NC driver’s license and vehicle registration steps, town sanitation basics, transit options, and a simple 30‑day move‑in roadmap. You will know who to contact, what to bring, and when to schedule each step.
Let’s dive in.
Utilities in Apex: who serves your address
Before you schedule anything, confirm who serves your specific address. Service territories can change by neighborhood and whether you are inside town limits.
Water and sewer
Most homes inside Apex town limits are served by the Town of Apex for water and sewer. Homes outside town limits may be served by Wake County, a metropolitan system, an HOA‑contracted utility, or private well and septic. Always verify coverage by address with the Town or your seller’s disclosures.
Electricity
Duke Energy is the primary electric provider across Wake County. Confirm your service by address, then request a start date to match your closing or move‑in.
Natural gas or propane
Piedmont Natural Gas is a common provider in the Triangle. Some homes use propane instead. If your home has natural gas, expect a safety check or in‑home inspection before turn‑on. Schedule early.
Trash, recycling, and yard waste
Many Apex addresses receive municipal collection through the Town of Apex. Some neighborhoods outside town limits, or HOA communities, use private haulers. Confirm service type and pickup details by address or with your HOA.
Internet and TV
Availability varies by neighborhood. Common providers around Apex include Spectrum, AT&T, and Xfinity in select areas. Some locations offer fiber from providers such as AT&T Fiber or Google Fiber. Run an availability check for your exact address and book installation as early as possible.
How to start service: the quick process
- Identify the correct provider for each service by your new address.
- Provide your full legal name, service and mailing address, start date, and contact details.
- Be ready to upload your closing statement or deed once available.
- Have a government ID and Social Security number or tax ID. Some providers accept a deposit in place of an SSN.
- Pay any deposit or connection fee. Deposits vary by provider and credit history.
- Ask if sanitation charges appear on your Town utilities bill or are billed separately by a private hauler.
Typical timelines
- Electric: often same day or next business day if no on‑site meter work is needed.
- Water and sewer: scheduled through the Town; timing depends on activation and meter status.
- Natural gas: allow a few business days for inspection and turn‑on.
- Internet and TV: professional installs can book out days to weeks depending on demand.
Pro tips to avoid service gaps
- Set activation for closing day or move‑in day to avoid overlapping bills.
- Ask your closing attorney to note utility transfers and notify providers at settlement.
- In new subdivisions, confirm permanent service is live, not temporary construction service.
- Ask about energy rebates, efficiency programs, and solar net metering options when you set up electric.
NC driver’s license and registration
New North Carolina residents should plan to exchange an out‑of‑state license, title and register vehicles, and meet insurance and inspection rules. Many steps require an appointment with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV).
What to do first
- Exchange your out‑of‑state driver’s license for an NC license. Confirm the current timeline for new residents with NCDMV.
- Title and register your vehicle in North Carolina. Bring proof of ownership, current registration, and insurance.
- Check whether your vehicle needs an emissions or safety inspection in Wake County before registration or renewal.
- Make appointments early. Time slots can book out in busy seasons.
Documents to bring
- Current out‑of‑state driver’s license to surrender.
- Proof of identity and lawful presence, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security number, like an SSN card or W‑2, or approved alternatives.
- Two proofs of North Carolina residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or closing statement.
- Vehicle title, current registration, and proof of insurance.
- Payment for title tax and registration fees.
Insurance and inspections
- North Carolina requires liability coverage of at least 30/60/25. Make sure your policy meets or exceeds those limits before you register.
- Wake County vehicles may require annual inspections, including emissions for certain model years. Check your vehicle type and requirements with NCDMV resources.
DMV logistics that save time
- Bring original documents. Photocopies are usually not accepted.
- If you are closing just before your DMV visit, bring your closing paperwork to document residency.
- Complete required inspections before attempting to register the vehicle.
Trash, recycling, yard waste, and special pickups
Getting your sanitation set up right away keeps move‑in smooth and avoids misses on collection day.
- Service provider: Many Apex addresses use Town of Apex curbside service. Some HOAs manage private haulers. Verify by address or with your HOA.
- Collection schedule: Pickup day and frequency vary. Recycling is often less frequent than trash. Check the Town schedule or your HOA calendar.
- Carts and limits: Town programs often supply standardized carts. Overages may require extra stickers or a special pickup.
- Recycling rules: Follow the local accepted materials list, and prepare items as directed. Do not bag recyclables unless your provider allows it.
- Yard waste: Review rules for limbs, bagged leaves, and seasonal pickup.
- Bulky items and appliances: Learn whether you need a scheduled pickup or a drop‑off at a county facility. Fees may apply.
- Hazardous waste: Use Wake County or Town household hazardous waste programs for paints, electronics, batteries, and chemicals.
Tip: Start your sanitation account immediately after closing if required, and confirm whether fees appear on your Town utility bill or are paid to a private hauler.
Transit, commuting, and mobility
Apex is a popular home base for commuters heading to Raleigh, Cary, and Research Triangle Park. Plan your daily route before day one of work.
- Regional buses: GoTriangle connects communities across Wake, Durham, and Orange counties, with express routes and park‑and‑ride options. GoRaleigh and GoCary provide local service that may connect to regional routes.
- Traffic and alerts: Use NCDOT 511 for real‑time traffic, incidents, and travel advisories.
- Rideshare and shuttles: Uber and Lyft operate across the area. Local taxi services and airport shuttles serve RDU.
- Biking and walking: Apex maintains greenways and trails. Check Town of Apex parks resources for maps and connections.
- Park‑and‑ride: Regional park‑and‑ride lots can reduce stress for daily commuters. Confirm the closest lot and schedule with GoTriangle.
Expect heavier traffic on US‑64, NC‑55, US‑1, and I‑540 during peak hours. Build in buffer time as you learn your route.
Your 30‑day move‑in roadmap
Use this timeline to coordinate utilities, licensing, and local services around your closing date.
Day −30 to −8: pre‑closing window
- Verify providers and schedule activations. Contact Town of Apex Utilities for water and sewer if applicable, and Duke Energy for electric. Set your start date for closing or move‑in.
- Confirm your natural gas provider or propane vendor. Book any required inspection or turn‑on appointment.
- Run an internet availability check and schedule installation.
- Ask your closer to note utility transfers and notify providers at settlement.
- Look up your trash and recycling schedule. If your community uses a private hauler, get the account set up.
- Make NCDMV appointments for your license and registration. Gather documents now.
- If you have pets, review local licensing rules and identify a vet.
Day −7 to 0: week of closing
- Reconfirm activation dates and technician windows for internet and gas.
- Print or save copies of your closing statement or deed. You may need these for utilities and DMV.
- Finalize moving logistics. Check any HOA move rules, parking permits, or elevator reservations if needed.
Day 0: closing day and move‑in
- Confirm electric, water, heat, and AC are active. Keep provider contact numbers handy.
- If required, present ID and closing documents to register utilities in your name.
- Photograph meter readings to document your starting point.
- Be present for any gas safety inspection or in‑home check.
Days 1–7: first week
- Set out trash and recycling on the correct day. Register for special pickups if needed.
- Change your mailing address with USPS and update banks and subscriptions.
- Start the NCDMV process if you have appointments in the first two weeks.
Weeks 2–4: first month
- Complete your driver’s license and vehicle registration transfers based on NCDMV timelines.
- Finish required vehicle inspections and emissions testing if needed.
- Wrap up home services and installations, such as security, cable, and landscaping.
- Meet HOA or neighborhood contacts to review guidelines for trash placement, exterior changes, and parking.
- Locate essentials near your home, such as pharmacy, grocery, urgent care, vet, and school registration resources.
After 30 days: settle in
- Confirm your property tax account is visible with Wake County and note payment timelines.
- Enroll students through the Wake County Public School System. Confirm school assignment through official channels.
- Register to vote and explore Town programs like parks, library cards, and recreation classes.
Quick checklists
Utility setup checklist
- Service provider confirmed for each utility by address
- Desired start date set for closing or move‑in
- Closing statement or deed ready to upload
- Government ID and SSN or deposit alternative ready
- Deposit and connection fee paid if required
- Billing method selected and sanitation billing confirmed
DMV document checklist
- Out‑of‑state driver’s license to surrender
- Proof of identity and lawful presence
- Proof of Social Security number or approved alternative
- Two proofs of NC residency, such as a utility bill or closing statement
- Vehicle title, registration, and proof of insurance
- Inspection completed if required
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming your address is served by Town utilities without checking
- Waiting to book internet installation until after closing
- Skipping the gas safety inspection window
- Arriving at NCDMV without original documents
- Missing your first trash or recycling day due to an unconfirmed schedule
Ready to make Apex home?
If you want a smoother move with local guidance on neighborhoods, new construction, and timing, you can lean on a trusted local advisor. For a personalized plan and tools tailored to your address and timeline, connect with Kim Longest to Request Your Free Relocation & Neighborhood Guide.
FAQs
Who provides water and sewer for my Apex home?
- Most in‑town addresses are served by the Town of Apex. Outside town limits, water and sewer may be Wake County, a metro utility, an HOA‑contracted provider, or private well and septic. Always verify by address.
How soon do I need a North Carolina driver’s license after moving?
- New resident timelines can change. Check current deadlines and requirements with NCDMV before you schedule your appointment.
Do I need an emissions inspection in Wake County?
- Many vehicles in Wake County require annual inspections, and some require emissions testing based on model year and fuel type. Confirm your vehicle’s requirements through NCDMV resources.
Is curbside recycling weekly in Apex?
- Frequency varies by service area. Some schedules are weekly for trash and less frequent for recycling. Check the Town of Apex schedule or your HOA’s private hauler calendar.
Which internet provider is fastest in Apex?
- Fiber is typically fastest where available. Check your exact address for AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, or other fiber options. If fiber is not available, cable providers commonly offer the next highest speeds.
How do I dispose of hazardous waste or electronics after I move?
- Use Wake County or Town household hazardous waste programs for paints, batteries, chemicals, and electronics. Check current drop‑off sites and collection events before you go.
