[WA] Can military orders prove Washington residency while holding a Texas ID?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that navigating residency requirements can be challenging. Can you please confirm if you are currently stationed in Washington or if you have recently moved there?

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you received any specific guidance or requirements from the state of Washington regarding proof of residency?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your residency proof.

Angelo M

Greetings! I hope this message finds you well. I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you with your situation and provide you with the support you need. Thank you for your patience, and I look forward to working with you.

Angelo M

Since you are in the military and stationed in Washington under official orders, your residency status is treated differently than a civilian’s. In general, having a Texas ID means that Texas is still your “state of legal residence” until you formally change it. But for many purposes in Washington, your military orders showing that you are currently stationed there can serve as proof of Washington residency.

For example, orders are often accepted to establish eligibility for in-state tuition, resident hunting and fishing licenses, or other residency-related benefits. (WA Rev Code § 77.08.075(3-4))

If you are trying to establish full Washington residency for things like a driver’s license or state ID, Washington law would normally require you to apply through the Department of Licensing and present proof such as a lease, utility bill, or military housing assignment. Your military orders are usually accepted as one of those proofs, especially if they show your Washington base assignment.

However, you do not have to surrender your Texas ID or residency if you do not want to—many service members maintain their home-of-record state for tax and voting purposes while living under orders elsewhere.

So the bottom line is that your Texas ID remains valid, but your military orders placing you in Washington are indeed a valid form of proof that you are residing in Washington for the time being. Whether that suffices depends on what specific agency or benefit you are applying for, but in most state contexts your orders will carry legal weight as residency documentation.

Angelo M

I hope I was able to help you and answer all of your questions and concerns. Is there any part of my response that you need clarification on or any further information? Did you have any other questions on this subject for me today?

Angelo M

You're very welcome!! I’m glad the earlier information helped. Let me walk you through the name-change process so you have a clear picture of what happens next.

In Washington, and in most states, a name change is handled through your local superior court. If you already prepared a petition or form through this site, yes, you would need to print that out, sign it, and then file it with the clerk of the superior court in the county where you live.

The court will charge a filing fee, which usually runs a little over $200, and there may also be a small charge for certified copies of the order if it’s granted.

Once you file, the clerk will schedule a short hearing date before a judge or court commissioner. The hearing itself is usually very straightforward—you appear, the judge confirms your identity and that you aren’t changing your name for fraudulent reasons or to avoid debts, and then they sign an order officially changing your name. (WA Rev Code § 4.24.130)

If you are military, you would simply use your Washington county of stationing as your county of residence for the filing.

After the order is signed, you’ll need to get certified copies from the clerk’s office, which you then use to update your Social Security records, your military records, your driver’s license or ID, bank accounts, and so forth.

So, in short: print the petition, file it with your county superior court clerk, pay the filing fee, attend the short hearing, and then use the court’s certified order to update all your documents.

Angelo M

You’re very welcome! Thank you so much for your questions! Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to assist you, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns. Thank you for your time as well! It was my pleasure assisting you with your situation.