How do I switch states, if I’m below level 6?

You can switch to any state before you reach level 6. As long as you still have a newbie teleport left (you get 2 at the start). Go to the map and use the coordinates (tap them near the bottom o the screen) to select a state number to teleport to. Go to the new state map and tap any open plot and select the Change State option. Your base will be teleported to a random location in the new state and this will now be your home state.

For more details see the How to change state page.