How to Renew Your New Hampshire Driver's License

New Hampshire driver's licenses renew every five years, and you can do it online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office

New Hampshire issues driver's licenses valid for five years from your date of birth. When your license expires, you have three ways to renew: online through the NH DMV website, by mail using a renewal form, or in person at a DMV office. The method you choose depends on whether your address has changed, whether you need a new photo, and how quickly you need the renewed license.

You cannot renew online if you are over 69 years old, if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you have had a name change since your last license, or if your current license is damaged or lost. In those cases, you must renew in person at a DMV office.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $30 for a five-year license, but only works if your address hasn't changed and your license is not damaged.
Mail renewal requires the renewal form from the DMV website, a check or money order for $30, and takes two to three weeks to arrive.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if you are over 69, have a suspended license, have changed your name, or need a new photo.
You will need your current license number and Social Security number to renew online or by mail.
New Hampshire does not require a vision test for renewal unless you are over 75 or renewing in person.

Renewing online through the NH DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are under 70, your address has not changed, and your license is not damaged. Go to the New Hampshire Department of Safety website, find the DMV section, and select "Renew Driver's License Online." You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The fee is $30.

After you submit your information, the DMV will mail your renewed license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes 10 to 14 business days. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Keep this number in case you need to check the status of your renewal.

If your renewal is rejected online, the DMV will send you a letter explaining why. Common reasons include a name change, a suspended license, or an address mismatch in their records. In those cases, you will need to renew by mail or in person.

Renewing by mail with a paper form

Mail renewal works for most drivers and does not require you to visit an office. read the "Driver's License Renewal process" form from the NH DMV website, or call the DMV at 603-271-2318 to request one by mail. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number and signature.

Include a check or money order for $30 made payable to "State of New Hampshire." Do not send cash. Mail the completed form and payment to the address listed on the form—this is typically the DMV office in Concord. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your process. Your renewed license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form.

If you are renewing by mail and your address has changed, write your new address clearly on the form. The DMV will mail your license to the new address. If you do not receive your license within four weeks, contact the DMV with your reference number or process date.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

In-person renewal is required if you are over 69, if your license is suspended or revoked, if you have changed your name since your last license, or if you need a new photo. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

New Hampshire has DMV offices in Concord, Manchester, and Nashua. You can walk in during business hours or schedule an appointment online through the NH DMV website. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day; calling ahead can tell you how busy an office is. The renewal fee is $30, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

If you are over 75, the DMV will administer a vision test as part of your in-person renewal. If you fail the vision test, you may be issued a license with restrictions (such as corrective lenses required) or your license may not be renewed until you provide a vision clearance from an eye care provider.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

Driving on an expired license is illegal in New Hampshire, even if your renewal process is in progress. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited. However, if you have submitted a renewal process by mail or online and can show proof of submission (a confirmation email or receipt), some officers may issue a warning instead of a citation.

If your license has already expired and you have not yet renewed, do not wait. Renew online or by mail when ready, or visit a DMV office in person. If you are unsure whether your license is expired, check the expiration date printed on the front of your card—it is listed next to "Expires."

Renewing a license that is damaged, lost, or stolen

If your license is damaged (cracked, faded, or unreadable), you can renew it in person at a DMV office or by mail. Bring your damaged license with your process so the DMV can see the damage. The renewal fee is still $30.

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must go to a DMV office in person and request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. The replacement fee is $30. The DMV will issue you a new license with a new number on the same day if you renew in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an out-of-state address?

Yes. If you have moved out of state but still hold a New Hampshire license, you can renew by mail or online if you meet the other requirements (no name change, no suspension, license not damaged). Provide your out-of-state address on the process, and the DMV will mail your renewed license there. If you have established residency in another state, you should consider obtaining a license from that state instead.

What if I changed my name since my last license?

You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current license, a document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.

How long does a renewed license last?

A renewed New Hampshire driver's license is valid for five years from your date of birth. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires.

Can I renew my license early?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you are planning to travel or if you want to update your address or photo before your current license expires. The renewal fee is the same whether you renew early or wait until closer to the expiration date.

What if I do not receive my renewed license in the mail?

Contact the NH DMV with your process date or confirmation number. If you renewed online, check your confirmation email for a reference number. The DMV can tell you whether your license has been mailed and can reissue it if it was lost in transit. There may be a small fee for a reissued license.

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.