What you need to do to get your first New Hampshire license
To get your first New Hampshire driver's license, you must visit a DMV office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a road test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. New Hampshire does not issue licenses by mail or online for first-time applicants. You will also need to show proof that you meet the state's vision requirements and pay the licensing fee at the time of your road test.
The process takes a minimum of two visits to a DMV office — one for the written test and one for the road test — unless you pass both on the same day, which some offices allow. Most people complete the entire process within two to four weeks, though the wait depends on how quickly you can schedule your road test and how busy your local DMV is.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass a written knowledge test and a road test at a New Hampshire DMV office; both are required before you receive your license.
- Bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and two documents showing your New Hampshire address when you explore.
- The written test covers New Hampshire traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official DMV handbook available free online.
- Road tests are scheduled separately and typically take place within one to three weeks of passing your written test, depending on DMV office availability.
- The total fee for a first-time license is $125 for a five-year license or $175 for a ten-year license, paid when you take your road test.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
New Hampshire requires specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Bring an original or certified birth certificate (not a photocopy) as your primary identity document. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization instead.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. For proof of New Hampshire residency, bring two documents from this list: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank statement, or insurance policy. Both documents must show your name and current New Hampshire address and be dated within the past 60 days.
You will also need to bring a completed process for Driver's License or Identification Card (Form DSMV 14), which you can read from the New Hampshire DMV website or fill out at the office. Bring your current out-of-state driver's license if you have one.
Passing the written knowledge test
The written test covers New Hampshire traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and parking rules. The test has 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You have 30 minutes to complete it. The test is offered in English only at most offices; if you need an interpreter, contact your local DMV office in advance to arrange one.
Study using the New Hampshire Driver's Manual, available free as a PDF on the DMV website. The manual covers all topics on the test. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can take the written test as many times as you need, but you must wait one day between attempts if you fail.
After you pass the written test, the DMV will schedule your road test or give you instructions on how to schedule it yourself. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer, so schedule as soon as you pass the written test.
Scheduling and passing your road test
Your road test takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks such as parking, turning, stopping, and merging. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be current and in the vehicle during the test.
Road test availability varies by DMV office. Some offices book tests weeks in advance, while others have shorter wait times. You can schedule your test online through the New Hampshire DMV website, by phone, or in person at the DMV office. If you fail your road test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it, and you will pay the test fee again.
When you pass your road test, you will pay the license fee ($125 for five years or $175 for ten years) and receive your temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers
You must be at least 16 years old to get a New Hampshire driver's license. If you are under 18, you will receive a Probationary License instead of a regular license. A Probationary License has restrictions that last until you turn 18 or for one year after you receive it, whichever comes later.
Probationary License restrictions include: you cannot use a cell phone while driving (except in emergencies), you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work or school, and you cannot carry more than one passenger under age 25 unless a parent or guardian is in the vehicle. Violating these restrictions can result in fines and license suspension.
If you are 16 or 17, you may also need to show proof of completion of a driver's education course. Check with your local DMV office about current requirements for your age group.
Vision requirements and medical certifications
You must pass a vision screening at the DMV office. The vision requirement is 20/40 or better in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the vision screening and during your road test. Your license will be marked with a restriction if you must wear corrective lenses to drive.
If you have a medical condition that may affect your ability to drive safely, the DMV may require a medical certification from your doctor. Conditions that may trigger this requirement include seizure disorders, diabetes, heart conditions, or sleep disorders. Contact your local DMV office if you have questions about whether your condition requires certification.
DMV office locations and hours in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has DMV offices in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, Keene, and Berlin. Each office handles written tests and road tests, though some offices have longer wait times than others. The Concord office is the largest and typically has the most availability for road test scheduling.
Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some variation by location. Some offices close for lunch. Check the New Hampshire DMV website for the specific hours and services available at your nearest office. You can also call ahead to ask about current wait times for road tests.
If you cannot visit an office during regular business hours, some offices offer evening or Saturday hours on a limited basis. Contact your local office to ask about extended hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my road test in a vehicle I do not own?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered and insured in someone's name, and the registration and insurance documents are in the vehicle during the test. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. Make sure the vehicle is in safe working condition and that all lights, brakes, and wipers work properly.
What happens if I fail my road test?
You can retake your road test after waiting at least one day. You will pay the road test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
Do I need to take a driver's education course before getting my license?
Driver's education is not required for adults, but it is required or strongly recommended for drivers under 18 in most cases. Check with your local DMV office about current requirements for your age. Some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved driver's education course.
How long is my temporary license valid?
Your temporary license is valid for 30 days from the date you pass your road test. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within two to three weeks. If your permanent license does not arrive within 30 days, contact the DMV office where you took your test.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes, you can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewal by mail or online is available for most drivers. Visit the New Hampshire DMV website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal, or contact your local DMV office.