So I finally got it done. I have now been here for 3.5 months and finally got my shit together to get to the Department of Motor Vehicle ("DMV") and take the various tests.
Although to be honest, half the reason for the delay was not having a social security number for 2.5 months, then i was busy at work for September.
Anyway, will take you through the process for anyone else travelling to USA and planning on living in Virginia.
I am sure I have mentioned in an earlier post the issue about needed to get a Virginia drivers license. You need 4 things:
2 x Proof of Identification
1 x Proof of Legal Status
1 x Proof of residential address in Virginia
The residential address was satisfied by a recent bank statement. The passport and E3 Visa satisfied Legal status and half the identification requirements. But the problem I had was the secondary ID. Despite the passport being enough to get through customs, department of homeland security, immigration, state department and who knows what else checking on my arrival, the state of Virginia still needs more. So I had my Social Security Number and took that with the other documents and voila, I can take the tests.
In Virginia, there is a two stage computer test, and a driving test. The road rules are fairly similar to Australia, but I would still suggest you get a copy of the Virginia Road Rules booklet (only about 20 or so pages) as there are a few little tidbits you need to know.
First stage of the computer test was street signs. You need 100% in this section to proceed. The signs were all fairly straight forward. And I passed with ease
The second stage was a "Road" test. I added the "" to Road as one of the questions asked about when i have to advise the DMV if I moved address. Not sure what that has to do with road safety.
Anyway, got through all the questions and only got one question wrong which had to do with hand signals. Having driven over here for 3 months and where actual car indicators are frequently left unused, this was another strange question. Anyway, apparently, the universal signal of stop being arm extended, out and turned up at the elbow is incorrect. Stop in Virginia is arm down. Strange...
Regardless, one error lets me pass and move onto the driving test. I was actually a little bit nervous about this. Having watched all these other crazy people on the road drive with no care or consideration for people or vehicles on the road, I was thinking I should pass easily. Not only that, The ridicule I would have copped from my girlfriend would have been unbearable, especially as I am usually hanging onto the death handles (also referred to as the jesus handles) whenever she is driving.
Out we go in the car for a drive, I end up doing several bad things, almost hit a pedestrian, make an illegal turn (kind of - I didn't give way), almost hit another car (their fault), and pretty sure I changed lanes in the middle of an intersection.
Shit. Come back in trying to figure out what excuse I can give to my colleagues and girlfriend (maybe i never took the test...hmmm). Anyway, back to the counter, the driving instructor takes me through the errors, and then says, despite all that, you still passed. WTF?!?!?!?
No wonder the drivers are hopeless over here. Their driving tests are way too easy to pass! As long as you don't actually hit anything, it looks like you pass the test. So anyone who has actually passed the test in Australia (or NSW at least - Those melbourne drivers are crazy) should have no problems passing the test. Just stay on the Right Hand Side. Which I didnt do a few weeks ago and scared the shit out of some poor driver coming at me from the opposite direction.
Anyway, they give a temporary paper license with the real one coming in the mail in a week or so. Oh, and cost of the license. $8. So cheap!
I could start a discussion about why people drive instead of public transport because driving is so much cheaper (with subsidised fuels) and public transport is quite expensive... but I wont.
I'm just happy I have my license. Now time to go buy a car so I can scare some pedestrians!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Living among the Yanks...and other things
So its been a while since my last update. Mainly because not much has been happening. And when something did happen, i got very drunk and hungover and couldn't stomach sitting at a computer.
So on the administration front, I finally got my Social Security Number (SSN). It took 8 weeks, with numerous phone calls to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to finally get it. After 5 weeks, I was a little miffed. The letter said up to 8 weeks, and the lady at the SSA upon application says it usually take 2-3 weeks. So i thought after 5 weeks, I was okay to call the SSA and get an update.
I called up, tried the electronic/voice prompts, and got cut off 3 or 4 times. So went bugger it, ignored it all and pretended I was using a none touch tone pad. Finally get through only to be told they are waiting on Dept of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm my arrival in the USA... Interesting, seeing as a copy of my visa and entry form which was stamped by DHS was copied by SSA.
Anyway, I accepted that it was in progress and waited another week. A week later, i call up again and ask, whats happening. Still with DHS??? Seriously? 6 weeks, and a simply check of the immigration records still hasn't been done.
I get to 7 weeks and start calling every second day. I ask if it can be escalated, can I talk to a manager. All met with, we (SSA) can't do anything, its with DHS. Grrr. 8 weeks go by, then finally, a little letter in my mail box with my new SSN!!! I am finally a real person, not withstanding I am already paying taxes.
So with my SSN, I can finally look at Car loans to buy a car. Except my bloody visa is only for 2 years, so finance companies are a little reluctant to offer a longer term loan. Looks like I will be buying a car outright. A little annoying as car loans/financing can range from 0% interest to 3%. Given savings earn >5% in Australia, would much rather keep the cash over the there.
I have also gotten used to driving on the right hand side of the road...Usually. Its not as hard as I expected, as long as there is traffic about. Last night managed to turn right and started driving on the left side of the road for 50m or so until I saw a parked car facing the opposite direction. First time I have done that, but also realised, its prob the first time I have been driving in a quiet street with no other cars on the road. Will need to be more careful.
My birthday came and went last week. Managed to have a few friends come out not withstanding an uninvited guest.
Made for an awesome party though. Some bars are pretty friendly to people with parties. For 2 hours, friends got $3 drinks (including spirits) and I had an open bar for those same two hours. The result was a great night, remembered by few. The hangover will not be soon forgotten though. My girlfriend though is a serious trooper who put up with me in a legless state, carrying me to the hotel room and giving me a pillow and blanket when i decided the bathroom floor was just as comfortable as a bed.
Have signed up for an ultimate frisbee team, playing with my old flatmate from the states, Bailey. Am sure he is not a stranger to those few who actually read this. This plus the fact my suit pants are struggling to fit have resulted in me doing multiple workouts a week in order to be able to lose those extra pounds which accumulated (too easily) in the past 2 months.
Have also been fortunate enough to have my sister in town the last few days. Her Summer Camp finished and she had a few days before flying to London. So we headed off to Southern Maryland for a long weekend with my girlfriend and her family. I was force fed some s'mores (Cracker sandwich with Chocolate and Marshmallows cooked over the fire) which are apparently supposed to be an amazing food. I wasn't terribly impressed. Tim Tam's still kick but when compared to any biscuit / cookie I have tried. Also tried some funnel cake. Which by its description, basically sounds like batter, deep fried, then eaten. Can anyone say, Obesity? By some miracle coincidence, after the weekend of eating these foods, my suit pants were a little tight. :-(
As part of the weekend, we headed out to the Pax River Naval Base for their annual Air Show. Some pretty cool things to see, including a display by the Blue Angels. Most have probably seen these on TV doing some very cool things. But I must say, its just as good, and maybe a little bit better seeing them live and doing some crazy shit. Like flying so close to each other that you have to check 3 or 4 times to know if its one or two planes. Or doing a couple of flybuys so you don't notice that plane that flys around behind the crowd and does a low flypast with afterburner scaring the shit out of everyone. After that one, everyone was always checking and counting the planes to make sure we knew where all six were.
Not much else to share. But will sign off with some very sad news. Coverage of the Rugby World Cup is quite limited over here. I can either pay $150 for online coverage of all the games or pay $25 per game on tv (pay per view). As far as I am aware, only the RWC Final will be shown on free to air tv (NBC). Extremely disappointing. When you see some of the programming that makes it onto tv over here, its amazing that the fourth biggest sports event in the world barely rates a mention. So if any of you back home are able to somehow record games to a hard drive, and figure out a way to stream the game to me, would be much appreciated.
Till next time
So on the administration front, I finally got my Social Security Number (SSN). It took 8 weeks, with numerous phone calls to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to finally get it. After 5 weeks, I was a little miffed. The letter said up to 8 weeks, and the lady at the SSA upon application says it usually take 2-3 weeks. So i thought after 5 weeks, I was okay to call the SSA and get an update.
I called up, tried the electronic/voice prompts, and got cut off 3 or 4 times. So went bugger it, ignored it all and pretended I was using a none touch tone pad. Finally get through only to be told they are waiting on Dept of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm my arrival in the USA... Interesting, seeing as a copy of my visa and entry form which was stamped by DHS was copied by SSA.
Anyway, I accepted that it was in progress and waited another week. A week later, i call up again and ask, whats happening. Still with DHS??? Seriously? 6 weeks, and a simply check of the immigration records still hasn't been done.
I get to 7 weeks and start calling every second day. I ask if it can be escalated, can I talk to a manager. All met with, we (SSA) can't do anything, its with DHS. Grrr. 8 weeks go by, then finally, a little letter in my mail box with my new SSN!!! I am finally a real person, not withstanding I am already paying taxes.
So with my SSN, I can finally look at Car loans to buy a car. Except my bloody visa is only for 2 years, so finance companies are a little reluctant to offer a longer term loan. Looks like I will be buying a car outright. A little annoying as car loans/financing can range from 0% interest to 3%. Given savings earn >5% in Australia, would much rather keep the cash over the there.
I have also gotten used to driving on the right hand side of the road...Usually. Its not as hard as I expected, as long as there is traffic about. Last night managed to turn right and started driving on the left side of the road for 50m or so until I saw a parked car facing the opposite direction. First time I have done that, but also realised, its prob the first time I have been driving in a quiet street with no other cars on the road. Will need to be more careful.
My birthday came and went last week. Managed to have a few friends come out not withstanding an uninvited guest.
Made for an awesome party though. Some bars are pretty friendly to people with parties. For 2 hours, friends got $3 drinks (including spirits) and I had an open bar for those same two hours. The result was a great night, remembered by few. The hangover will not be soon forgotten though. My girlfriend though is a serious trooper who put up with me in a legless state, carrying me to the hotel room and giving me a pillow and blanket when i decided the bathroom floor was just as comfortable as a bed.
Have signed up for an ultimate frisbee team, playing with my old flatmate from the states, Bailey. Am sure he is not a stranger to those few who actually read this. This plus the fact my suit pants are struggling to fit have resulted in me doing multiple workouts a week in order to be able to lose those extra pounds which accumulated (too easily) in the past 2 months.
Have also been fortunate enough to have my sister in town the last few days. Her Summer Camp finished and she had a few days before flying to London. So we headed off to Southern Maryland for a long weekend with my girlfriend and her family. I was force fed some s'mores (Cracker sandwich with Chocolate and Marshmallows cooked over the fire) which are apparently supposed to be an amazing food. I wasn't terribly impressed. Tim Tam's still kick but when compared to any biscuit / cookie I have tried. Also tried some funnel cake. Which by its description, basically sounds like batter, deep fried, then eaten. Can anyone say, Obesity? By some miracle coincidence, after the weekend of eating these foods, my suit pants were a little tight. :-(
As part of the weekend, we headed out to the Pax River Naval Base for their annual Air Show. Some pretty cool things to see, including a display by the Blue Angels. Most have probably seen these on TV doing some very cool things. But I must say, its just as good, and maybe a little bit better seeing them live and doing some crazy shit. Like flying so close to each other that you have to check 3 or 4 times to know if its one or two planes. Or doing a couple of flybuys so you don't notice that plane that flys around behind the crowd and does a low flypast with afterburner scaring the shit out of everyone. After that one, everyone was always checking and counting the planes to make sure we knew where all six were.
Not much else to share. But will sign off with some very sad news. Coverage of the Rugby World Cup is quite limited over here. I can either pay $150 for online coverage of all the games or pay $25 per game on tv (pay per view). As far as I am aware, only the RWC Final will be shown on free to air tv (NBC). Extremely disappointing. When you see some of the programming that makes it onto tv over here, its amazing that the fourth biggest sports event in the world barely rates a mention. So if any of you back home are able to somehow record games to a hard drive, and figure out a way to stream the game to me, would be much appreciated.
Till next time
Friday, July 8, 2011
Pissing up a tree
Quick lesson:
Make sure the person you are talking too understands what Taking the Piss means.
If they don't it will either result in a funny or violent situation. Possibly both.
Make sure the person you are talking too understands what Taking the Piss means.
If they don't it will either result in a funny or violent situation. Possibly both.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Adapting to US life
Adapting to US life has been a little bit difficult. Despite Australia and USA being very similar in many respects, the little things sometimes get to you. Still searching for a decent Mocha, and some real bacon (ie not cardboard). I never thought I would miss vegemite so much. I found a store that sells it, but at $9 for a jar that should cost less than $2, I will continue to miss it until I can convince anyone visiting from Australia to bring it with them. I also need to get back to the gym and back to some better eater habits. After 10 days over here, I have put on 4kg (10 lb). I thought I would avoid that.
However, despite my annoyance at a few little things, some other things are actually nice. Almost every restaurant over here has bottomless softdrink. No need to nurse that $3 glass of coke that only has 5 mouthfuls and ice. And due to the situation with tips vs wages over here, most waiters/waitresses are a lot better than those you find in Australia. Some exceptions as usual, but can’t have everything.
Monday was the 4th of July. Am sure anyone who reads this would know that date is the American Independence Day. Which according to Wikipedia, it seems that a close enough is good enough approach for celebrating this event which actually happened two days earlier. Either way, its an iconic date and a national public holiday.
As I am currently living just outside of DC, it was natural to experience my first 4th of July fireworks display in the National Mall (the strip of public area that stretches from the capital building to the Lincoln Memorial, with the Washington Monument in the centre. Chrissy and I took our position on the Capital Building side of the monument. A small mistake as all the fireworks are set on the Lincoln memorial side of the monument, so we had the Washington monument blocking part of the view.
The fireworks go for 15-20 minutes and are a nice display. But being a Sydneysider, my standards have been set quite high by the annual New Years Eve display over Sydney Harbour with multiple firepoints all synchronised and played in time to music. I kept looking for a pattern or beat or something from the display in DC but seemed to be just a random firing of (a lot of) various fireworks. Still a nice night. Some poor sucker sitting in front of us used the night to propose to his girlfriend. I’m guessing he used the date as its an easy to remember date. The girl, after some tears and hugging, then seemed to want to make sure she was the centre of attention by repeatedly making it loud and clear that she just got engaged. I think only one person actually only paid her attention. As I said, poor sucker.
After fireworks, a couple hundred thousand people (pure guesswork) then headed to the metro to leave town. We stopped at a pub for a couple hours to wait it out. Then a smooth trip home. Not a bad night in all but not a lot of buildup. Maybe I missed it all though and I will get into it a bit more in future years. No idea.
I got excited yesterday when I found out that the State of Origin was actually being broadcast in the USA, as is the NRL Grand Final. I had to subscribe to a Fox Soccer Channel, but that's a sacrifice I was willing to make...up until I watched Game 3. Its a big disappointment that no other games are over here. There are numerous sports channels available on cable that are empty 90% of the time. Surely the NRL would be able to expand their market coverage if they come to an agreement with a US channel. Even if not live for the weekly games, simply showing the games over here would be nice.
As an alternative there is live streaming available for subscription. Yet its not the cost that stops me. Its the fact I would need a high speed internet link, as well as a computer with high graphics capability and high processing speed. Even if i have the latter two (which I don’t), the telephone and modem connections are not in a suitable place to sit and watch tv / laptop. Using a wireless router to basic email and internet is fine, but its a bit too slow for anything requiring high bandwidth.
In contrast, Super Rugby is on over here. EVERY game is shown live, or close to live. Am looking forward to watching the final. But just shows the failure of the NRL management in expanding their market. Hell, Fox Sports already has the Australian broadcast rights. Surely you can work with them to have their American parent show games over here (yes i know fox sports in Australia is part owned by Telstra), but still, surely some arrangement could be made.
Another benefit of being in USA is the Tour De France does not require insomniac type living arrangements. Starts around 7 am and depending on the stage, over around 11am-12.30pm. C’mon Cadel. As I write this, watching Stage 5 with 25 miles to go. And don’t have to wake up for work in just a few hours. On the flipside, after i start work, I wont be able to watch it. Except on the numerous and repeated replays.
Another thing about US TV. Due to the number of channels, and their dedicated nature, its almost impossible to miss a show as it is repeated once, twice, or 3 times per day for the next couple of days. With 200+ channels available, they have to show something. 100 of those seem to be shopping or evangelical channels. 70 are sports channels (of which 55 are dormant and waiting for something to be on) and the remaining 30 channels are either comedy, drama or sci-fi.
Found a firefly marathon on Sunday. That was nice. Another channel seems to have a James Bond marathon on repeat. And then there is channel USA which appears to have about 7 shows in total. Newer shows such as White Collar, Necessary Roughness, Royal Pains and Suits (good show) and older ones being Law and Order (x3 variants) and NCIS. Given this channel goes 24 hours, 7 days a week, you can imagine the number of repeats being shown.
Oh, and when I was in the bank yesterday, I noticed the standard home loan rate over here for people with good credit. 30 year fixed rate loans at less than 5% per annum. Fixed! For 30 years! Yikes. I guess when the economy is in recession and you have 10% unemployment, government bond rates close to 0%, then mortgages are cheap. But as I said, that's for people with good credit history. Which it seems is not the common position in the US. Once I get settled, I think a serious look at the property market over here is in order while prices are down and money is cheap.
I am still looking for a place to rent at the moment. I was expecting to have a place already, as I had never really had problems finding a place in Sydney. Yet my previous assertions that everyone loves an Aussie may not be correct. I can only assume its because they are worried I will only be here short term before going home. Not surprising, it seems like they all want to be in Sydney :-)
That's it for today. Next update when I have something to share.
However, despite my annoyance at a few little things, some other things are actually nice. Almost every restaurant over here has bottomless softdrink. No need to nurse that $3 glass of coke that only has 5 mouthfuls and ice. And due to the situation with tips vs wages over here, most waiters/waitresses are a lot better than those you find in Australia. Some exceptions as usual, but can’t have everything.
Monday was the 4th of July. Am sure anyone who reads this would know that date is the American Independence Day. Which according to Wikipedia, it seems that a close enough is good enough approach for celebrating this event which actually happened two days earlier. Either way, its an iconic date and a national public holiday.
As I am currently living just outside of DC, it was natural to experience my first 4th of July fireworks display in the National Mall (the strip of public area that stretches from the capital building to the Lincoln Memorial, with the Washington Monument in the centre. Chrissy and I took our position on the Capital Building side of the monument. A small mistake as all the fireworks are set on the Lincoln memorial side of the monument, so we had the Washington monument blocking part of the view.
The fireworks go for 15-20 minutes and are a nice display. But being a Sydneysider, my standards have been set quite high by the annual New Years Eve display over Sydney Harbour with multiple firepoints all synchronised and played in time to music. I kept looking for a pattern or beat or something from the display in DC but seemed to be just a random firing of (a lot of) various fireworks. Still a nice night. Some poor sucker sitting in front of us used the night to propose to his girlfriend. I’m guessing he used the date as its an easy to remember date. The girl, after some tears and hugging, then seemed to want to make sure she was the centre of attention by repeatedly making it loud and clear that she just got engaged. I think only one person actually only paid her attention. As I said, poor sucker.
After fireworks, a couple hundred thousand people (pure guesswork) then headed to the metro to leave town. We stopped at a pub for a couple hours to wait it out. Then a smooth trip home. Not a bad night in all but not a lot of buildup. Maybe I missed it all though and I will get into it a bit more in future years. No idea.
I got excited yesterday when I found out that the State of Origin was actually being broadcast in the USA, as is the NRL Grand Final. I had to subscribe to a Fox Soccer Channel, but that's a sacrifice I was willing to make...up until I watched Game 3. Its a big disappointment that no other games are over here. There are numerous sports channels available on cable that are empty 90% of the time. Surely the NRL would be able to expand their market coverage if they come to an agreement with a US channel. Even if not live for the weekly games, simply showing the games over here would be nice.
As an alternative there is live streaming available for subscription. Yet its not the cost that stops me. Its the fact I would need a high speed internet link, as well as a computer with high graphics capability and high processing speed. Even if i have the latter two (which I don’t), the telephone and modem connections are not in a suitable place to sit and watch tv / laptop. Using a wireless router to basic email and internet is fine, but its a bit too slow for anything requiring high bandwidth.
In contrast, Super Rugby is on over here. EVERY game is shown live, or close to live. Am looking forward to watching the final. But just shows the failure of the NRL management in expanding their market. Hell, Fox Sports already has the Australian broadcast rights. Surely you can work with them to have their American parent show games over here (yes i know fox sports in Australia is part owned by Telstra), but still, surely some arrangement could be made.
Another benefit of being in USA is the Tour De France does not require insomniac type living arrangements. Starts around 7 am and depending on the stage, over around 11am-12.30pm. C’mon Cadel. As I write this, watching Stage 5 with 25 miles to go. And don’t have to wake up for work in just a few hours. On the flipside, after i start work, I wont be able to watch it. Except on the numerous and repeated replays.
Another thing about US TV. Due to the number of channels, and their dedicated nature, its almost impossible to miss a show as it is repeated once, twice, or 3 times per day for the next couple of days. With 200+ channels available, they have to show something. 100 of those seem to be shopping or evangelical channels. 70 are sports channels (of which 55 are dormant and waiting for something to be on) and the remaining 30 channels are either comedy, drama or sci-fi.
Found a firefly marathon on Sunday. That was nice. Another channel seems to have a James Bond marathon on repeat. And then there is channel USA which appears to have about 7 shows in total. Newer shows such as White Collar, Necessary Roughness, Royal Pains and Suits (good show) and older ones being Law and Order (x3 variants) and NCIS. Given this channel goes 24 hours, 7 days a week, you can imagine the number of repeats being shown.
Oh, and when I was in the bank yesterday, I noticed the standard home loan rate over here for people with good credit. 30 year fixed rate loans at less than 5% per annum. Fixed! For 30 years! Yikes. I guess when the economy is in recession and you have 10% unemployment, government bond rates close to 0%, then mortgages are cheap. But as I said, that's for people with good credit history. Which it seems is not the common position in the US. Once I get settled, I think a serious look at the property market over here is in order while prices are down and money is cheap.
I am still looking for a place to rent at the moment. I was expecting to have a place already, as I had never really had problems finding a place in Sydney. Yet my previous assertions that everyone loves an Aussie may not be correct. I can only assume its because they are worried I will only be here short term before going home. Not surprising, it seems like they all want to be in Sydney :-)
That's it for today. Next update when I have something to share.
DMV and ATM problems
Over a week has passed since my last post and I haven’t had much to do with any government authorities. Have had a couple of setbacks in my documentation though.
First up, my International Drivers Permit issued by the NRMA when I was in Australia remained in my pants when they went through the wash. Without this document, I cannot legally drive in the USA with my NSW Drivers License. So I now need to re-send forms to the NRMA to get a replacement issued. Notwithstanding, the rules in Virginia require that I need a drivers license issued by the Virginia DMV within 60 days of living in this state.
If I was Canadian or German, not a problem. Can just get a Virginia Drivers license by showing my Canadian or German drivers license. As an Australian however, we need to do a two part knowledge test, followed by a drivers test. Apparently Australian driving is not considered safe. Which is qiote funny if you have ever driven over here, or been a pedestrian over here. To paraphrase Pirates of the Caribbean, the rules are more like guidelines. Want to use a pedestrian crossing, well, first up, cross your fingers and hope that the cars stop. In Australia, usually you can step up to a crossing and all cars will slow down. Over here, they seem to think thats just reason to speed up. You actually have to step onto the road, in the path of the oncoming car, for them to slow down. I have now had at least a dozen occasions where I was almost hit by cars. The closest, I could have put my hand forward and had it taken out by the sedan going by oblivious to the pedestrian crossing. No wonder everyone drives everywhere. I think it would be safer if I hopped into a car to travel to the supermarket across the road. A trip of about 150 metres!
Anyway, it will be a race to see if the new international permit will arrive before I have to get a local license. Which raises another problem. Documentation and identification requirements to obtain a drivers license. The DMV has a list of acceptable identification documents that it will accept as proof of identification, proof of legal presence and proof of residence in Virginia.
Working backwards, the proof of residence documents include things such as Virginia ID card, bank statements, utility statements and the like. A little difficult for a newly arrived person, so I have to wait at least 30 days for a bank statement to be issued by my bank.
Proof of legal presence in the USA is easy as my passport/visa/I-94 is acceptable.
But proof of identity is a little bit more difficult. They require two documents. A primary and secondary. However, when looking at the list, there appears to be a significant flaw in accepted documents. With the exception of my foreign passport, which counts as one form of ID, almost all other acceptable ID forms appear to be photo ID documents issued by a US federal or state agency. The closest document appears to be an I-766 which is an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) which is issued by the USCIS (Dept of Immigration). Unfortunately, as an E-3 visa holder, I am not required to hold such authorisation. The closest I have is my LCA issued by the Dept of Labor.
I will provide an update on this conundrum upon my next visit to the DMV where I get this matter resolved.
The second document issue was my ATM Debit card. In Australia, all ATM’s (based on my experience – this could be wrong) return your ATM card prior to dispensing any cash to ensure the card is not left behind. Unfortunately, the ATM I used last week is not programmed this way. And being my usual absent-minded self, I collected my cash and receipt, and then promptly left, leaving my card behind. By the time I realised my card was missing (we are talking days, not hours), some body had taken my card and spent some money using the visa credit functionality. Thankfully, this should be refunded by the bank as an unauthorised transaction. It was only $40, so not filing for bankruptcy.
Bank was very helpful, they helped cancel the card, issued a temporary card and will have a permanent one resent to me. Will see whether I get charged any fees by the bank for this service. Whilst on the bank, one of the first things I did last week after getting my account was to do an international transfer from my Australian bank to Bank of America. Transfer happened around 8am Sydney time and money was in my US bank about 24 hours later. Definitely happy about that.
As for the rest of my administrative duties, I am still waiting on my Social Security number, but should hopefully arrive soon. I start work at my new office tomorrow (Thursday) so hoping it comes through so I can be taxed properly. Still not sure how much money should be coming out in tax, so making it difficult to budget. Over the next couple of months, will follow up on US tax rules for non residents and write about my findings to hopefully help any others coming this way.
This is getting long so will end this post here and will make a second post today on adapting to US life and the little finds that have helped me think I won’t be giving up Australian life totally.
First up, my International Drivers Permit issued by the NRMA when I was in Australia remained in my pants when they went through the wash. Without this document, I cannot legally drive in the USA with my NSW Drivers License. So I now need to re-send forms to the NRMA to get a replacement issued. Notwithstanding, the rules in Virginia require that I need a drivers license issued by the Virginia DMV within 60 days of living in this state.
If I was Canadian or German, not a problem. Can just get a Virginia Drivers license by showing my Canadian or German drivers license. As an Australian however, we need to do a two part knowledge test, followed by a drivers test. Apparently Australian driving is not considered safe. Which is qiote funny if you have ever driven over here, or been a pedestrian over here. To paraphrase Pirates of the Caribbean, the rules are more like guidelines. Want to use a pedestrian crossing, well, first up, cross your fingers and hope that the cars stop. In Australia, usually you can step up to a crossing and all cars will slow down. Over here, they seem to think thats just reason to speed up. You actually have to step onto the road, in the path of the oncoming car, for them to slow down. I have now had at least a dozen occasions where I was almost hit by cars. The closest, I could have put my hand forward and had it taken out by the sedan going by oblivious to the pedestrian crossing. No wonder everyone drives everywhere. I think it would be safer if I hopped into a car to travel to the supermarket across the road. A trip of about 150 metres!
Anyway, it will be a race to see if the new international permit will arrive before I have to get a local license. Which raises another problem. Documentation and identification requirements to obtain a drivers license. The DMV has a list of acceptable identification documents that it will accept as proof of identification, proof of legal presence and proof of residence in Virginia.
Working backwards, the proof of residence documents include things such as Virginia ID card, bank statements, utility statements and the like. A little difficult for a newly arrived person, so I have to wait at least 30 days for a bank statement to be issued by my bank.
Proof of legal presence in the USA is easy as my passport/visa/I-94 is acceptable.
But proof of identity is a little bit more difficult. They require two documents. A primary and secondary. However, when looking at the list, there appears to be a significant flaw in accepted documents. With the exception of my foreign passport, which counts as one form of ID, almost all other acceptable ID forms appear to be photo ID documents issued by a US federal or state agency. The closest document appears to be an I-766 which is an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) which is issued by the USCIS (Dept of Immigration). Unfortunately, as an E-3 visa holder, I am not required to hold such authorisation. The closest I have is my LCA issued by the Dept of Labor.
I will provide an update on this conundrum upon my next visit to the DMV where I get this matter resolved.
The second document issue was my ATM Debit card. In Australia, all ATM’s (based on my experience – this could be wrong) return your ATM card prior to dispensing any cash to ensure the card is not left behind. Unfortunately, the ATM I used last week is not programmed this way. And being my usual absent-minded self, I collected my cash and receipt, and then promptly left, leaving my card behind. By the time I realised my card was missing (we are talking days, not hours), some body had taken my card and spent some money using the visa credit functionality. Thankfully, this should be refunded by the bank as an unauthorised transaction. It was only $40, so not filing for bankruptcy.
Bank was very helpful, they helped cancel the card, issued a temporary card and will have a permanent one resent to me. Will see whether I get charged any fees by the bank for this service. Whilst on the bank, one of the first things I did last week after getting my account was to do an international transfer from my Australian bank to Bank of America. Transfer happened around 8am Sydney time and money was in my US bank about 24 hours later. Definitely happy about that.
As for the rest of my administrative duties, I am still waiting on my Social Security number, but should hopefully arrive soon. I start work at my new office tomorrow (Thursday) so hoping it comes through so I can be taxed properly. Still not sure how much money should be coming out in tax, so making it difficult to budget. Over the next couple of months, will follow up on US tax rules for non residents and write about my findings to hopefully help any others coming this way.
This is getting long so will end this post here and will make a second post today on adapting to US life and the little finds that have helped me think I won’t be giving up Australian life totally.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
The English Language - Australian vs American
So I plan to update this post over time as I come across examples
of words and translations where confusion would likely reign to the normal
Aussie
Australian |
American |
Comment |
Milkshake |
N/A |
Expect a Thickshake if you ever order a |
Thickshake |
Milkshake |
|
Lemonade |
Sprite/7up |
Lemonade in USA is drink derived from lemons. One of the few things |
Entree |
Starter |
Entree in USA is actually a main meal. |
Marinara |
Seafood |
If you ask for marina in the USA, you will end up with a plane tomato |
Napolitano |
Marinara |
|
Biscuit |
Cookie |
Biscuits in the US are breakfast foods. Similar to scones. Don’t get |
Ice Chocolate |
Good Luck |
No ice chocolates seem to exist. If you find a place, please let me |
Boot (Car) |
Trunk |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A visit to the Social Security Administration
A couple days delayed, but got a little bit busy over the weekend.
Day number 2, Friday consisted of a visit to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in order to apply for a Social Security Number. The Social Security Number (SSN) acts as the equivalent of your Tax File Number and is important if you ever wish to deal with any level of government as it is pretty much the equivalent of a national identification card/number. So it seems people in the US are just numbers in the grand scheme of things. And I have just applied to be one.
Before leaving Australia, i checked the SSA website and pre-completed the SSN application. Turns out this wasn't absolutely necessary but it did save me filling it out when at the SSA office.
So on Friday, I went for a walk to the nearest SSA office which was a 8km walk (5mile) each way. The best advice I could give is to get there early. The office opens at 9am, and I got there at 10am. This was about an hour too late. The office was already very busy when I got there, and the entire process ended up taking about 2.5 hours. Of which, 2.3 hours was waiting in a chair. So take a book!
When I got to the SSA office, there was a line to "check in", where they simply give you a number and make sure that you have whichever form you need to complete as part of the actual interview process. As I had already completed the form prior to my arrival, I didnt need to complete it again and took my seat.
During the 2+ hour wait, the security guard on premise reminded everyone multiple times that phones must be on silent/vibrate, and any rowdy kids should be taken outside until they calm down. I found it ironic that of the 2 phones that rang that day, and the kids in the office, the most annoying person was the guard and his constant piping up at perceived issues.
Another item of note is that there must be a lot of scams about regarding SSA forms. Apparently, all SSA forms are free of cost and the SSA does not charge for services, yet some people pay for forms and services which are simply scams. One elderly gentleman came in to the office thinking he had done everything needed and "paid" his fees so he could get his services started. The staff had to let him know that it was probably a scam as it was not them who charged them.
So sad, but the same around the world that some people will take advantage of anyone for an easy buck.
Anyway, when my number was called, I went up to the window with my passport/visa/I-94, Certified birth certificate (my copy was certified back in 1989 so timing of certification not an issue) and the SSN application form. A few questions confirming my information / address details and I was done. Was advised the Card and number should be in the mail in the next month.
Then I was done and made the 8km walk back home again (via subway for lunch).
So as long as you have a valid visa and entry documents in your passport, a birth certificate and the correct form, you will be in and out fairly easily.
Day number 2, Friday consisted of a visit to the Social Security Administration (SSA) in order to apply for a Social Security Number. The Social Security Number (SSN) acts as the equivalent of your Tax File Number and is important if you ever wish to deal with any level of government as it is pretty much the equivalent of a national identification card/number. So it seems people in the US are just numbers in the grand scheme of things. And I have just applied to be one.
Before leaving Australia, i checked the SSA website and pre-completed the SSN application. Turns out this wasn't absolutely necessary but it did save me filling it out when at the SSA office.
So on Friday, I went for a walk to the nearest SSA office which was a 8km walk (5mile) each way. The best advice I could give is to get there early. The office opens at 9am, and I got there at 10am. This was about an hour too late. The office was already very busy when I got there, and the entire process ended up taking about 2.5 hours. Of which, 2.3 hours was waiting in a chair. So take a book!
When I got to the SSA office, there was a line to "check in", where they simply give you a number and make sure that you have whichever form you need to complete as part of the actual interview process. As I had already completed the form prior to my arrival, I didnt need to complete it again and took my seat.
During the 2+ hour wait, the security guard on premise reminded everyone multiple times that phones must be on silent/vibrate, and any rowdy kids should be taken outside until they calm down. I found it ironic that of the 2 phones that rang that day, and the kids in the office, the most annoying person was the guard and his constant piping up at perceived issues.
Another item of note is that there must be a lot of scams about regarding SSA forms. Apparently, all SSA forms are free of cost and the SSA does not charge for services, yet some people pay for forms and services which are simply scams. One elderly gentleman came in to the office thinking he had done everything needed and "paid" his fees so he could get his services started. The staff had to let him know that it was probably a scam as it was not them who charged them.
So sad, but the same around the world that some people will take advantage of anyone for an easy buck.
Anyway, when my number was called, I went up to the window with my passport/visa/I-94, Certified birth certificate (my copy was certified back in 1989 so timing of certification not an issue) and the SSN application form. A few questions confirming my information / address details and I was done. Was advised the Card and number should be in the mail in the next month.
Then I was done and made the 8km walk back home again (via subway for lunch).
So as long as you have a valid visa and entry documents in your passport, a birth certificate and the correct form, you will be in and out fairly easily.
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