Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your New Hampshire driver's license in person at any DMV office or through the mail, depending on whether your license is still valid and what type of renewal you need. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes at a DMV location. Mail renewal is available only if your license has not expired more than five years ago and you have not had any address changes since your last renewal.

For either method, bring your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of New Hampshire residency dated within 30 days of your visit (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement). If you are renewing in person, you will also need to bring a document proving your legal name if it differs from your current license — a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or court order. You do not need a new photo unless your current license photo is damaged or you want to update it.

Key Takeaways

  • New Hampshire driver's licenses expire on your birthday in your fifth year after issuance, and you can renew up to six months before expiration.
  • Mail renewal is available only if your license expired less than five years ago and your address has not changed since your last renewal.
  • In-person renewal at any DMV office requires your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency dated within 30 days.
  • The renewal fee is $130 for a five-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at DMV offices or by check or money order by mail.

Renewing by mail

To renew by mail, complete the Driver License process form (DSMV 10), which you can read from the New Hampshire DMV website or request by calling 603-271-2371. Include your current license, a check or money order for $130 made payable to the State of New Hampshire, and proof of residency. Mail the packet to the address listed on the form — currently the DMV office in Concord.

Processing by mail takes two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives your process. You will receive your new license by mail at the address on your process. If you need your license sooner, do not use mail renewal; go to a DMV office instead.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

Walk into any New Hampshire DMV office during business hours with your documents. The DMV has offices in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and several other locations; hours and addresses are on the DMV website. You do not need an appointment for license renewal, though some offices may have wait times during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays).

Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency dated within 30 days, and your payment ($130 in cash, check, or card). If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving the change. The staff will take a new photo unless you decline, verify your information, and issue your new license on the spot. You can drive home with your new license when ready.

When your license has expired

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it by mail. You must go to a DMV office in person and complete a full process as if you were getting a license for the first time. This means you will need to provide additional documents: a certified birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of residency.

You will also take a vision test and written knowledge test at the DMV office. The written test covers New Hampshire traffic laws and road signs. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day at no additional cost. The renewal fee remains $130.

Address changes and other updates

If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must renew in person at a DMV office — mail renewal is not an option. Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 30 days) along with your other documents. The DMV will update your address on your new license at no extra charge.

If you want to change your name, gender marker, or organ donor status, you can do so during renewal. Name changes require a legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Gender marker changes require a signed statement from a licensed healthcare provider confirming your gender identity. These updates are included in the $130 renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to six months before your license expires. The expiration date on your new license will be five years from the date you renew, not five years from your original expiration date. Renewing early does not extend the total time your license is valid.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew by mail if you do not have your current license. Go to a DMV office in person and request a replacement license. Bring your proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment ($130). The DMV will issue a new license with the same expiration date as your lost one.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

No, unless your current photo is damaged or you want to update it. Tell the DMV staff whether you want a new photo taken. If you decline, they will use your existing photo on your new license.

How long does it take to get my license by mail?

Mail processing takes two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives your process. Mail delivery adds another few days on each end. If you need your license within two weeks, renew in person at a DMV office instead.

What if my name changed since my last license?

Bring the legal document proving your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to a DMV office. You cannot renew by mail if your name has changed. The staff will update your name and issue a new license with your current name.