Permit vs. Driver’s License in New Hampshire

1. What is the difference between a driver’s license and a permit in New Hampshire?


A driver’s license in New Hampshire is required for any person wishing to drive a motor vehicle on public roads. It is issued by the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and requires proof of identity, proof of residency, passing a written test, and passing a road test. A permit, on the other hand, is a less comprehensive form of licensure that is granted to drivers aged 16-18 who have fulfilled all requirements but the road test. A permit allows new drivers to practice driving with an adult supervisor before taking the driving test.

2. How old must a person be to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


In New Hampshire, a person must be at least 16 years old to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

3. What documents are required to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire, the applicant must provide proof of identity, proof of age and proof of residency. Acceptable forms of proof of identity include a valid U.S. passport, original or certified birth certificate, immigration documents, military identification or a valid foreign passport with visa and I-94. Acceptable forms of proof of age include a valid U.S. passport, original or certified birth certificate, or a valid foreign passport with visa and I-94. Acceptable forms of proof of residency include two documents showing current New Hampshire address, such as a current utility bill, bank statement or pay stub.

4. Is a permit required to drive in New Hampshire?


No, a permit is not required to drive in New Hampshire.

5. How long is a driver’s license valid for in New Hampshire?


A New Hampshire driver’s license is valid for five years from the date of issue.

6. How long does it take to get a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


It usually takes about 4-6 weeks to get a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire. The process includes taking the written and vision tests, paying the fees, and having your photo taken.

7. What tests must be passed to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire, individuals must pass three tests: a knowledge test, an on-road driving test, and a vision test. The knowledge test covers topics such as traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The on-road driving test is conducted by a motor vehicle inspector and requires the applicant to demonstrate basic driving skills such as starting, stopping, turning, and parking. The vision test is also conducted by a motor vehicle inspector and requires the applicant to have at least 20/40 vision in either eye with or without corrective lenses.

8. What restrictions are placed on holders of a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


Holders of a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire must abide by the following restrictions:

– All drivers must be at least 16 years of age.

– All drivers must wear a seat belt while driving.

– Texting and cell phone use while driving is prohibited.

– All passengers must wear seat belts.

– All headlights and taillights must be in working order.

– Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can result in license suspension or revocation.

– All drivers must obey posted speed limits and other traffic laws.

9. What are the fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


The following fees are associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire:

* Regular Driver’s License: $50
* Regular Driver’s License, Under 21: $50
* Driver’s License for Disability: $5
* Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): $50
* Learner’s Permit (non-CDL): $15
* Motorcycle Class M Endorsement: $30

10. Are there any additional requirements to obtain a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire for certain age groups?


Yes. All applicants under 18 must have a signed parental consent form and complete a driver’s education course. In addition, those under 18 must also complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours of nighttime driving, before applying for a license.

11. Is there an age limit for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


Yes, the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license in New Hampshire is 16 years old. You must be at least 15 years and six months old to apply for a learner’s permit.

12. Are any special privileges given to holders of a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


Yes, holders of a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire are eligible for a reduced insurance rate on their vehicle insurance policy. Additionally, they may be eligible for discounts on rental cars, hotels, and other services.

13. What is the process for renewing a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


To renew your driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire, you must visit your local DMV office and present the following documents:

• A completed Application for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (Form DSMV 450).
• Proof of identity and lawful presence.
• Proof of New Hampshire Residency.
• Proof of Social Security number.
• Payment for fees.

If your license is expired, you may need to take a written test and/or a driving test as well.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


Yes. All drivers must be 16 years of age or older, have a valid driver’s license, and comply with all motor vehicle laws in New Hampshire. Additionally, drivers who are under 18 years of age must complete a state-approved driver’s education program. Drivers under 21 years of age with a learner’s permit or intermediate license may not operate a motor vehicle between 1:00 am and 5:00 am without a parent or legal guardian in the vehicle. Lastly, all drivers must wear their seatbelts at all times.

15. Are there any additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


No, there are no additional tests required to renew a driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire. The basic requirements are to pass a vision screening and present proof of identity, residency, and legal presence.

16. What are the penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in New Hampshire?


In New Hampshire, driving without a valid license or permit is a misdemeanor offense. Penalties for this offense include a fine of up to $500, up to one year in jail, or both. Additionally, individuals could be subject to a license suspension of up to 6 months.

17. Is there an age requirement for obtaining an instruction permit in New Hampshire ?


Yes, you must be 15 years of age or older to obtain an instruction permit in New Hampshire.

18. Are there any special considerations given to holders of an instruction permit in New Hampshire ?


Yes. Under New Hampshire law, holders of an instruction permit are allowed to drive a motor vehicle only when accompanied by a licensed driver over the age of 21 who has been licensed for at least two years and is sitting in the front passenger seat. The accompanying driver must also have valid auto insurance. Instruction permit holders are prohibited from driving between the hours of 1:00am and 5:00am, and may be subject to additional restrictions as set forth by the licensing authority.

19. Can holders of an instruction permit drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in New Hampshire ?


No, instruction permit holders may only drive within their home state.

20. Are there any restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in New Hampshire ?


Yes, there are restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in New Hampshire. The restrictions are as follows:

• Drivers must be accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age who is seated in the front passenger seat.
• The driver must not drive between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
• The driver must not carry any passengers other than immediate family members.
• The driver must wear a seat belt at all times.