How to Renew Your Driver's License in New Hampshire

Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your New Hampshire driver's license at any DMV office or through the mail, depending on whether you're may be able to access for mail renewal. The state's Division of Motor Vehicles operates offices in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and several other locations. If you're renewing in person, bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of New Hampshire residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).

Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have no medical or legal restrictions on your driving record. You'll need to submit your current license, a completed process form (DSMV 10), and the renewal fee. The state processes mail renewals within two to three weeks of receipt, though you should allow extra time for postal delivery both ways.

Key Takeaways

In-person renewal at a DMV office requires your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of New Hampshire residency dated within 60 days.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks for processing if your license is not expired and has no restrictions, but add time for mailing.
Your license is valid for five years from the date of issue, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
The renewal fee is the same whether you renew in person or by mail, and you'll receive your new license by mail after processing.
If your license is expired by more than five years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.

Renewal fees and how long your new license lasts

New Hampshire driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. The renewal fee for a standard five-year license is $120 if you renew in person or by mail. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, which gives you flexibility in timing your renewal.

Your new license will arrive by mail within two weeks of your renewal being processed. If you renew in person, you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card will follow by mail. If your current license expires before your new one arrives, the temporary license is valid for driving.

When you must renew in person instead of by mail

You cannot use mail renewal if your license is already expired, if you have medical restrictions or a suspended license, or if you need to update your name, address, or other information beyond a standard renewal. You also must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years, because the state requires you to retake the written knowledge test.

If you've moved to New Hampshire from another state and need to convert your out-of-state license, you must do that in person at a DMV office. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Social Security number, proof of New Hampshire residency, and proof of identity (passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate).

DMV office locations and hours

The Division of Motor Vehicles operates full-service offices in Concord (the main office), Manchester, Nashua, and Keene. Concord is open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Manchester and Nashua have similar hours but may close for lunch. Keene has limited hours and is typically open three days per week. You can check the current hours and locations on the New Hampshire DMV website before you go.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Concord and Manchester tend to be busier during lunch hours and late afternoon. If you want to avoid a long wait, visit early in the morning or mid-week. Some offices do not take walk-ins after a certain time, so arriving before 3 p.m. is safer.

How to submit your renewal by mail

To renew by mail, read or request the DSMV 10 process form from the New Hampshire DMV website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with your current license and the $120 renewal fee (check or money order) to the address listed on the form. The mailing address is typically the Division of Motor Vehicles in Concord, but confirm the current address on the DMV website before sending.

Keep a copy of your process and note the date you mailed it. The state processes mail renewals in the order they are received, and processing takes two to three weeks. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, so make sure your address is current before you send in your renewal. If you don't receive your license within four weeks of mailing, contact the DMV to check the status.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

If your license expires and you have not yet renewed, you cannot legally drive. However, if you've already submitted a mail renewal process, you can drive on the temporary receipt until your new license arrives. If you're renewing in person, bring your expired license to the DMV office — you can still renew it, though you may face a small late fee depending on how long it has been expired.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, the renewal process changes. You'll need to retake the written knowledge test and may need to provide additional documentation. In that case, contact the DMV directly to find out what documents to bring and whether you need to schedule an appointment for the test.

Changing your address or name during renewal

If you're moving within New Hampshire or changing your name, you cannot use mail renewal. You must go to a DMV office in person and bring your current license, proof of your new address (utility bill or lease), and proof of your name change if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DMV will update your information and issue a new license with the correct details.

If you're moving out of state, you do not need to renew your New Hampshire license. Your license remains valid until its expiration date, even if you no longer live in the state. However, if you move to another state and plan to stay there, you should obtain a license from that state within the timeframe required by that state's law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No, New Hampshire does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person at a DMV office. Mail renewal is the closest option to online renewal — you submit your documents by mail and receive your new license by mail.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew by mail if you don't have your current license. Go to a DMV office in person and bring your proof of Social Security number and proof of residency. The DMV will issue a replacement license, which counts as a renewal if your license has not expired.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

New Hampshire DMV offices do not require appointments for standard renewals. You can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary. Call ahead or check the DMV website to see current wait times at your preferred location.

How much does it cost to renew?

The renewal fee is $120 for a five-year license, whether you renew in person or by mail. You can pay by cash, check, or money order in person. By mail, send a check or money order only.

What if my renewal is delayed in the mail?

If you don't receive your new license within four weeks of mailing your process, contact the Division of Motor Vehicles at the phone number on their website. Have your process copy and mailing date ready. The DMV can check the status and reissue your license if needed.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.