What You Need to Get a New Hampshire Driver's License
New Hampshire issues driver's licenses through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and you'll need to visit a DMV office in person to explore. You cannot complete the process online or by mail. The state requires you to pass a written test, a vision test, and a road test before you receive your license.
To start, bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consular report of birth), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of New Hampshire residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.
The written test covers traffic laws and road signs specific to New Hampshire. You can study using the New Hampshire Driver's Manual, available free on the DMV website or in print at any DMV office. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a New Hampshire DMV office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency to explore for a driver's license.
- New Hampshire requires you to pass a written test, vision test, and road test before receiving your license.
- The road test must be scheduled at a DMV office, and you'll drive in a vehicle provided by the examiner or your own vehicle if it meets safety standards.
- A standard New Hampshire driver's license is valid for five years and costs $120 for a first-time license.
- You can renew your license online if you have no medical conditions, no violations, and your license is not expired by more than five years.
Scheduling and Taking the Road Test
After you pass the written and vision tests at the DMV office, you'll schedule your road test. New Hampshire DMV examiners conduct road tests at DMV locations, and you can use either a vehicle provided by the DMV or your own vehicle. If you use your own car, it must have valid registration, insurance, and working safety equipment (brakes, lights, wipers, horn).
The road test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills: starting and stopping smoothly, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers and will watch how you handle normal driving situations. You must bring your learner's permit and proof of insurance to the test.
If you don't pass the road test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you'll need to schedule another appointment. Most DMV offices have openings within a few weeks.
Costs and License Validity
A standard five-year New Hampshire driver's license costs $120 for a first-time applicant. If you're under 21, your license will have a vertical format and different restrictions. The written test and vision test are included in this fee; there are no separate charges for those.
Your license will expire on your birthday five years after it is issued. New Hampshire does not offer licenses valid for longer than five years, even if you request one. If your license is lost or stolen, a replacement costs $30.
New Hampshire does not charge a separate fee for the road test, but you must pay the $120 license fee when you pass all three tests and are ready to receive your license.
Renewing Your License Online or in Person
If your license is still valid or expired by no more than five years, you may be able to renew it online through the New Hampshire DMV website. Online renewal is available only if you have no medical conditions that affect your driving, no recent violations, and you're renewing a standard license (not a commercial license).
To renew online, log into your DMV account or create one, answer health and safety questions, and pay the renewal fee of $120. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office or take any tests.
If you cannot renew online—because your license is expired by more than five years, you have medical conditions, or you're renewing a commercial license—you must visit a DMV office in person. You'll need to retake the written test and vision test, but not the road test, unless your license has been suspended or revoked.
Licenses for Drivers Under 21
New Hampshire issues junior operator licenses to drivers under 18. These licenses have restrictions: you cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a handheld cell phone while driving. You also cannot drive with more than one passenger under 25 years old unless a parent or guardian is in the vehicle.
At age 18, you can exchange your junior operator license for a standard license at any DMV office. You do not need to retake any tests; bring your current license and pay a $30 replacement fee. The new license will be issued when ready.
If you are under 18 and explore for your first license, a parent or guardian must be present at the DMV office to sign your process. They do not need to take the tests with you, but they must be there when you submit your paperwork.
What to Do If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked
New Hampshire suspends or revokes licenses for serious violations: driving under the influence, reckless driving, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or failing to pay fines or child support. A suspension is temporary; a revocation is permanent until you petition to have it reinstated.
If your license is suspended, you cannot drive legally. To find out the length of your suspension, contact the New Hampshire DMV directly or check your DMV account online. When the suspension ends, your license is automatically restored—you do not need to reapply or retake tests.
If your license is revoked, you must wait the period set by the court (usually one to five years) before you can petition for reinstatement. You'll need to provide proof that you've completed any required programs (such as a DUI education course) and pay a reinstatement fee. The DMV will tell you the specific requirements for your case.
Changing Your Address or Name
If you move to a new address in New Hampshire, you must update your license within 60 days. You can do this online through your DMV account if you're only changing your address. Log in, update your information, and pay a $30 fee. Your new license will be mailed to you.
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and pay a $30 fee. Your new license will be issued on the spot.
You do not need to retake any tests when updating your address or name. The DMV will straightforward reissue your license with the new information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Real ID driver's license in New Hampshire?
Yes. New Hampshire issues Real ID-compliant licenses, which are marked with a gold star in the upper right corner. You'll need the same documents as a standard license, plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses and are valid for five years.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period and no additional fee. You must pass the written test before you can take the vision test and road test.
Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the road test?
Yes. You must hold a valid New Hampshire learner's permit for at least one month before you take the road test. The learner's permit costs $30 and is valid for one year. You can obtain it by passing the written and vision tests at a DMV office.
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
If your license is still valid or expired by no more than five years and you meet the online renewal requirements, you can renew online from anywhere. If you need to renew in person, you must visit a New Hampshire DMV office. Some states have reciprocal agreements, but New Hampshire does not allow renewal through another state's DMV.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass all the tests?
Your license is issued when ready after you pass the road test. You'll receive a temporary paper license at the DMV office, and your permanent plastic license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.