How to Renew a Commercial Drivers License in New Hampshire
Drivers need to complete the New Hampshire CDL renewal process if their commercial license is about to expire. Renewing a CDL is a different, and often more complicated process than renewing your driver’s license. That is why many CDL handlers tend to ask, “What do you need to renew your CDL license?” There are a number of CDL renewal requirements commercial drivers must satisfy. For instance, all CDL holders need to complete an eyesight screening.
Furthermore, it is vital to understand how the renewal process in New Hampshire works. The state does not allow you to renew your commercial driver’s license by mail or online. Instead, you have to visit your local DMV facility. The sections below will provide you with details on everything you need to know in order to complete the CDL renewal process.
When to Renew Your CDL License in New Hampshire
A CDL license in New Hampshire is valid for five years and expires on your birthday. If you are unsure when your documentation was issued, your CDL will have the date it was issued and its expiration date.
Also, the state DMV allows you to renew your commercial license up to six months in advance at any location. This provides with plenty of time to take any examinations you may need to take before renewing your credentials.
CDL Renewal Testing Requirements in New Hampshire
Completing an eyesight screening is a part of the CDL renewal requirements. The exam measures your visual acuity, and you need to score a 20/40 with both eyes in order to pass the test. If you need glasses or contact lenses to pass the vision test, you will be required to wear corrective lenses while operating a commercial vehicle.
What do you need to renew your CDL license in New Hampshire?
All commercial drivers that want to renew their CDL must have a current and valid medical card on file with the DMV. Drivers will not be able to renew your documentation without a medical card, which makes it vital to obtain a medical card before going through the renewal process.
Additionally, you need to complete an Application for CDL and bring it with you to your local facility. This allows the office to complete the CDL license renewal process quicker. Moreover, you must provide the DMV agency with your current New Hampshire CDL license. The license provides the DMV with details it needs to complete your CDL renewal.
CDL Renewal Process in New Hampshire
You must visit any DMV office in New Hampshire with a completed application to begin the CDL renewal process. When filling out the application, it is vital to make sure you complete the renewal application accurately. Also, the majority of DMV offices allow you to make an appointment.
By making an appointment, you will be able to save time. Furthermore, you must have a valid medical examiners certificate and form of payment to pay for renewal fees. You can make payments for CDL renewal costs using the one of the following payment methods:
- Credit Card
- MasterCard
- VISA
- American Express
- Cash
- Personal Check
- Money Order
- Traveler’s check
Note: If you decide to use a check or money order, you must make it payable to “State of NH – DMV.”
New Hampshire CDL Permit Renewal Requirements
A CDL permit is provided to applicants who are applying for a commercial license or who currently hold a CDL but wish to upgrade, or remove restrictions. “How long is a CDL permit good for?” is a question you may have because you have not gone through the renewal process yet.
The permit is valid for 180 days. However, you can only renew it once, but you must pass the required knowledge examinations within a year. If you completed the required tests more than a year ago, you need to retake the knowledge exams to be eligible for a CDL permit renewal.
Similar to renewing a CDL, you need to visit a DMV office to obtain your CDL permit renewal. Also, you must have your current license with you and meet the medical documentation requirements.
Hazardous Material Endorsement CDL Renewal Requirements in New Hampshire
Hazmat endorsement holders have additional New Hampshire CDL renewal guidelines they must follow in order to go through the renewal process. For instance, every time they need to renew their documentation, they must take the Hazardous Materials knowledge test. The exam is 30 questions long, and drivers must pass the test to complete the CDL license renewal process.
Moreover, you must receive a Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) Fingerprint Clearance before renewing your endorsement. This portion of the CDL renewal process is not done with your local DMV. Instead, you need to visit any TSA location. Once you complete the background check, DMV offices will be notified and you can continue with the renewal process.
CDL Renewal Fees in New Hampshire
The CDL renewal cost is dependent on the type of commercial vehicle you are driving or planning to operate:
- A combination of vehicles – $60
- A single vehicle weighing 26,001 lbs. or more – $60
- A single vehicle weighing 26,000 lbs. or less – $60
- CDL Learner’s Permit – $20
Moreover, if you have endorsements, you will need to pay additional fees:
- Hazardous materials – $10
- Tank vehicles – $10
- Passenger vehicles – $10
- School bus – $10
- Double/Triple vehicles – $10
New Hampshire CDL Renewal Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Renew a New Hampshire CDL License from nh.gov
- How to Apply for a Commercial Driver License from nh.gov
- Licensing Fees from nh.gov