Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
Getting satisfactory motorcycle education is a requirement throughout the country. The Motorcycle Safety Administration administers the motorcycle course in New Hampshire and it comes in three levels including:
  • Basic
  • Intermediate
  • Experienced

Only the first level is mandatory for the motorcycle endorsement at the first test attempt. Advanced levels of the driving course are for skills improvement and for potential exam fails.

For more information: Motorcycle Driver Handbook/Manual

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
New Hampshire is one of the few states that does not have a mandatory helmet law at the moment.

However, as amotorcycle driving licenseholder, it is recommended that you get adequate cover and protection for your head and body. Helmets need to be in line with the requirements stipulated by the Department of Transport.

In addition, make sure to wear appropriate clothing and hands protection when you drive. More details on helmet standards can be found in the Motorcycle Driver’s Manual.

For more information: Motorcycle Driver Handbook/Manual

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
A commercial driving license in New Hampshire cannot be renewed online. The DMV in New Hampshire only offers this option for regular drivers licenses.

CDL licenses can only be renewed in person at DMV locations where you must follow these steps:

  • Submit a completed Commercial Drivers License Application
  • Provide an old drivers license copy
  • Provide Medical certificate
  • Fingerprint check
  • Pass a vision test
  • Pass tests for CDL endorsements or special skills (bus drivers)
  • Pay the renewal fee

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in New Hampshire

Can I take the DMV written test online?
The online option for taking the test administered by DMV in New Hampshire is not available.

All tests must be taken at DMV locations in front of a computer, using a touch screen, with random multiple-choice questions.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
There are some conditions that are valid on federal level across the country, which may allow you to use or transfer your CDL license from one to another state. These conditions refer to your license intrastate or interstate option in particular.

You may need to check with DMV at your local state and the states that you intend to move through to see if your license is sufficient.

As you may hold only one commercial driving license at a time, you might be asked to add a new CDL endorsement.

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
To operate a scooter or moped, you only need to apply to get a motorcycle endorsement in New Hampshire if you do not already hold any other type of driving license.

The criteria to classify the vehicle as a moped or a scooter includes:

  • The driver does not shift gears
  • The engine is not with more than 50 cc power
  • The vehicle is not able to go faster than 30 mph

Conforming with these criteria frees you from the obligation to apply for a moped or scooter license at DMV New Hampshire.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
New Hampshire legislation on veteran benefits includes veteran indicators for identification cards. The indicator can be used for benefits and services in the state.

To get a veteran designation put on your NHID card, you must:

For more information: New Hampshire Veteran Benefits

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
To apply for a CDL license in New Hampshire, you must visit a local NH DMV and follow these steps:
  • Provide a valid New Hampshire drivers license
  • Submit a completed Commercial Driver License Application
  • Submit a medical certificate called Medical Card
  • Pass a vision and knowledge test
  • Pass the required road tests for needed CDL endorsements
  • Pay the $60 CDL license fee and $10 extra fee for each endorsement

It is recommended that you check the Commercial Driver License Manual for more details about the tests you will need to pass and traffic regulations applicable to commercial drivers.

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
There is no document that is called learners permit in New Hampshire. Certain legal requirements do however apply for minors so that they can get a youth operator s drivers license.

To apply and get your first license in New Hampshire, you must submit the application at DMV offices and fulfill the criteria from the checklist below:

  • Obtain permission from a parent or a legal guardian
  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Pass the required drivers training
  • Complete 40 hours of supervised driving time
  • Pass vision, road test and knowledge test
  • Pay $50 license fee

When you finish all necessary procedures that go with the application process, you will be issued a Youth Operators License, which is a valid document for beginner drivers in New Hampshire until the age of 21.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
To get your motorcycle license in New Hampshire, you will need to visit a nearby DMV office and submit the application with the supporting documents.

In order to get amotorcycle endorsement, you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old.
  • Have passed all knowledge and fitness tests.
  • Have paid the $30 applicable fee.
  • Have provided parental permission, if under 18.
  • Have completed motorcycle drivers course.

Motorcycle licenses from other states are not acceptable.

When you apply for a motorcycle license, you will first be issued with motorcycle permit that will allow you to drive during sunlight hours only and is valid for 45 days. Study the Motorcycle Handbook for best results before you apply.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
To replace your ID card successfully, you need to prepare the following set of documents in support to your application and submit them to DMV in person or via mail:

Military personnel may have different criteria for documents and fees. You can check any exemptions at DMV locations

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?
When your first license expires, you will usually get a renewal reminder notice from a NH DMV about two months before the expiry date.

In any case, you need to hold a youth operator s drivers license until you turn 21 to submit the renewal application.

To apply for a youth operator s drivers license renewal, you can choose between two options:

Documentation you must prepare to submit when applying for a youth operator s drivers license renewal, include:

You are encouraged to check most recent fees at DMV locations as they are often subject to change.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

How do I renew my ID card?
The expired ID card can be renewed around its expiry date, which is usually five years after the date of issuance. To renew your NH ID card, you must visit a local NH DMV office and submit the following documents:

Upon arrival, you will need to have your photo taken and you will receive a temporary ID card, which will be replaced by a fully valid copy via mail within two months.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
Medical cards are usually valid for two years unless otherwise instructed by the medical examiner that has completed the medical certificate.

If your current card is approaching expiry date and you wish to get a new one, you can get in touch with your licensed examiner and additionally look for more information with the federal authority for commercial transport (FMCSA).

Afterwards, DMV New Hampshire offers three options to submit your Medical Card together with the Commercial Driver License Application, including:

  • In person at any DMV substation
  • Mail in:

NH-DMV Driver Licensing Bureau

23 Hazen Drive Concord

NH 033053

  • E-mail scanned copies to:

NHCDLMEDCARDS@dos.nh.go

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
Renewing amotorcycle licensein New Hampshire can be done by choosing one of the following options:
  • Online
    • When eligible, you will receive a numbered renewal notice
  • In person at DMV offices where you will need to present:
    • A current New Hampshire driving license or
    • Two documents that can serve as proof of residence.
    • Proof of identity.
    • An Application for Driver’s License.
    • Proof of having passeda vision test.
    • Payment for the $5 renewal fee.

For more information: How to Renew/Replace a Motorcycle License in New Hampshire

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
The procedure for getting a motorcycle license for military personnel is the same as for civilians.

Members of the armed forces, however, are fee-exempted and can mail the application with the supporting documents to:

NH Department of Safety DMV – Driver Licensing 23 Hazen Drive Concord NH 03305

In essence, applicants who participate in the military and are interested in knowinghow to get a motorcycle license must be aware that they need to submit an application, pass all tests, provide documents for evidence and pay the $30 applicable fee.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
Drivers education is mandatory for getting the first learners permit which is referred to as a youth operator s drivers license in New Hampshire.

Drivers ed is available across the state in public and private authorized driving schools. To fulfill the criteria for getting your first license you must go through:

  • Thirty hours of classes with a certified instructor.
  • Ten hours of driving with a certified instructor.
  • Six hours of driving observation with a certified instructor.
  • Forty additional hours of supervised driving time with a guardian, out of which ten must be at night.

Further details about drivers training are available at:

NH Department of Safety DMV – Driver Education 23 Hazen Drive Concord, NH 03305

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
Once you ve successfully applied for an ID card in the state of NH, you will get a temporary ID card issued as a paper copy that will serve its purpose for maximum two months. You should receive the hard copy of yourID card within this time frame.

If you have applied for an ID card out-of-state you will wait for maximum eight months, as this copy is valid for six months after which period you must do the same in-person application for renewing ID card as for in-state applicants.

For more information: ID Cards in New Hamphire

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?
Generally, a CDL license in the state of New Hampshire is valid for a period of five years at a time. However, medical cards are only valid for up to two years and they may affect the lawfulness of your CDL license. The NH DMV allows you to apply for CDL license renewal up to 60 days prior to expiry.

Provided that you have completed the application, obtained the medical card and paid the fees you can go ahead to renew license at DMV offices in New Hampshire.

For more information: How to Renew a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in New Hampshire

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
New Hampshire residents who arehave lost their ID card out of state can send the application with the accompanying documents via mail to:

NH Departement of Safety DMV – Driver Licensing 23 Hazen Drive Concord NH 03305

The steps you will need to take to complete the identification card replacement out of state, include:

The NH DMV will issue and mail a temporary ID card valid for six months, which you must replace as soon as you get back to New Hampshire.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
There are certain minimum requirements that you need to pass to be able to drive commercially in New Hampshire.

Already licensed drivers in New Hampshire need to be:

  • At least 18 to get a CDL or a commercial driver s permit.
  • At least 21 to transport hazardous materials or to drive interstate.

Further age and endorsement-related requirements are explained in the Commercial Driver License Manual.

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
Class M motorcycle license in New Hampshire is issued to applicants over the age of 16. Drivers who wish to drive motorcycles need to conform to the following restrictions and they need to be:
  • At least 15 and a half to start with motorcycle drivers ed.
  • At least 16 to apply for drivers license.
  • At least 18 to apply without parental consent.

DMV in New Hampshire issues a Parent or Guardian Authorization Certificate, which must be submitted at the time of application.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
If you intend to drive for commercial purposes in New Hampshire, you must be aware that there are three classifications for the particular type of CDL license and five endorsements which depend on the type of transport you will do, including:
  • License type:
    • CDL Class A
    • CDL Class B
    • CDL Class C
  • Endorsements:
    • Hazardous materials CDL endorsement
    • Double/Triple CDL endorsement
    • Tank vehicles CDL endorsement
    • Passenger CDL endorsement
    • School bus CDL endorsement

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
The fees for an ID cards New Hampshire, include:
  • $10 fee for a new identification card
  • $10 fee for ID card renewal
  • $5 for ID card replacement

Military persons who have served for at least 24 months may be exempted from the above fees.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
Youth operator s drivers license holders in New Hampshire are not allowed to drive under certain conditions and must respect them in order to pass through the first stage of the learning permit. Restrictions state that drivers:
  • Must not drive between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m.
  • Must not drive with more than one passenger younger than 25 who is not a family member, unless in the presence of a licensed adult aged at least 25 during the first six months of license possession.
  • Must not drive a car in which the number of passengers is greater than the number of seat belts or safety restraints.

Adhering to these restrictions will save new drivers from possible suspensions.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
Medical certifications for commercial drivers are coordinated on federal level. When submitting a CDL application, you will need to present the following certificates together with all other supporting documentation:
  • A medical examiner’s certificate
  • Self-certification for the CDL categories including:
    • Interstate commerce excepted CDL license holder
    • Interstate commerce non-excepted CDL license holder
    • Intrastate commerce excepted CDL license holder
    • Intrastate commerce non-excepted CDL license holder
  • Officially approved variance for drivers with physical impairments which affect their ability to safely operate commercial vehicles

Further details that may be useful and applicable to your individual case can be obtained from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
If you are operating with the learners permit, which is called youth operator s license in New Hampshire, you must appear at court irrespective of the type of the violation you have committed.

When getting traffic ticket fines, this rule applies to both first-time and to subsequent violations.

The relevant court of jurisdiction will decide about the fines and penalties for your individual case. Presence and involvement of a parent or legal guardian may be mandatory.

For more information: Traffic Tickets and Violations in New Hampshire

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
Three-wheeled vehicles in New Hampshire need to be operated by licensed drivers.

Applicants getting a motorcycle license for three-wheeled vehicles need to go through a similar procedure as for regular motorbikes, which includes:

  • Passing a vision test.
  • Passing aknowledge exam and skills test.
  • Paying the appropriate fee.

Although applicants who will be awarded this type of license will be allowed to drive tricycles, they must stay away from driving two-wheeled motorbikes, mopeds or scooters.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
When you submit your drivers permit corresponding application at a local NH DMV, you must prepare and attach all accompanying documents from the list below:

Having completed the above list as a part of your application, you will need to go on and pay the fees and have your photo taken. You will then receive your temporary license whereas your official license will be mailed to you.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
Getting a motorcycle license in New Hampshire needs to be initiated at DMV offices during their working hours from 8 a.m. to 3.p.m. Upon arrival, you will need to submit the documents from the checklist below:
  • Application for drivers license
  • Payment for the $30 applicable fee
  • Proof of having completed a vision test
  • A current drivers license
  • Parental or legal guardian approval if under 18
  • Proof of motorbike fitness
    • Completion of Motorcycle Rider Training Program
    • Passing grade proof for the Motorcycle Skills Test

Applicants will first get a temporary permit until they pass the motorbike skills test.

For more information: New Hampshire Motorcycle Drivers

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
After passing the Motorcycle Safety driving course, motorcycle riders in New Hampshire need to go to the local DMV office and pass:
  • A Knowledge exam.
  • An on-motorcycle skills test.

Motorbike riders will need to demonstrate that they have learned the peculiar skills and that they possess the proper knowledge to handle a motorcycle.

For more information: Motorcycle Driver Handbook/Manual

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
If you are convicted of driving while intoxicated, you are subject to facing severe penalties which may include:
  • One-year CDL license suspension for first offense of:
    • Driving with BAC of 0.04 percent or higher.
    • Refusing to take a blood test.
    • Driving under the influence of a controlled substance.
    • Leaving the scene of an accident involving a commercial vehicle (CMV).
    • Committing a felony involving the use of a CMV.
  • Three year CDL license suspension for a CMV with endorsement for hazardous materials who are convicted of DUI.
  • Lifetime suspension of CDL license for:
    • Second DUI offense
    • Using a CMV to commit a felony involving controlled substances.

CDL drivers who have any detectable amount of alcohol under 0.04 percent will be put out-of-service for 24 hours, immediately.

For more information: Commercial Driver’s Manual in New Hampshire

What is an ID card?
DMV ID cards issued in New Hampshire are photo-issued cards that serve as a form of identification for residents who don t have driver s licenses. ID cards can conveniently provide proof of identity in many situations.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
The passing score for written test in New Hampshire is 80 percent, which means that you will have to answer correctly 4 out of 5 of the questions to obtain your learners permit.

In the event that you fail the test, you can re-apply to retake the test but only after ten days since your last attempt. If you miss the test appointment, you will need to wait for another 30 days.

It is advisable to study the Driver’s Manual in advance so that you are well prepared to pass the test.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
To get the first license as a new driver in New Hampshire and be qualified to obtain a license correspondent to the level of learners permit called Youth Operator License, all applicants must pass:
  • A vision test with 20/40 vision acuity.
  • A computer-based knowledge test with multiple-choice questions at licensed New Hampshire drivers school.
  • A road test.

Additionally, young drivers need to have 40 hours of adult-supervised driving.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
There are several tests that you might need to take at the NH DMV if you want to get a particular commercial driving license in New Hampshire.

Each endorsement has an additional test on top of the general knowledge exam. The knowledge exam can be:

  • General knowledge (for all applicants)
  • Passenger transport (for bus drivers)
  • Combination (for combined vehicles)
  • Hazardous material (for hazardous materials)
  • Tanker (for liquids or gases in bulk tank vehicles)
  • Doubles and triples (to pull double or triple trailers)
  • School bus endorsement (for bus driver applicants)

The road skills test includes:

  • Pre-trip inspection
  • Off-road skills test
  • On-road skills test

For more information: New Hampshire DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

When does my ID card expire?
Identification cardsin New Hampshire are valid for five years. Unless your ID card has been stolen, lost or damaged, you are safe from administrative procedures for the ID card throughout this period.Any other ID card related issues can be solved at DMV offices across the state.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?
To obtain an ID card, you can submit an ID card application at one of the NH DMV offices across the state. Once you have successfully applied, you will receive a temporary ID card, which will serve you until you receive your official ID card via mail within two months.

To apply for a NH ID card via mail, gather all the required documents and mail them to:

NH Department of Safety DMV 23 Hazen Drive Concord NH 03305

Non-US residents applying for the first time for any ID card or drivers license related issue in New Hampshire are only eligible to do so in the Concord DMV location.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Hampshire Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
To get your permit for driving under the age of 18, you must submit the application with a written approval signed by an adult who fall under one of the following categories:
  • Parent
  • Legal guardian
  • Another responsible adult over the age of 25

Adults who give the authorization must sign a form previously arranged by DMV New Hampshire called Parent or Guardian Authorization Certificate. Only then new drivers are qualified for a first permit for driving.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Hampshire