What you need to bring to the DMV
New Hampshire's Division of Motor Vehicles requires you to bring specific documents in person to get a driver's license. You cannot complete this entirely by mail or online — you must visit a DMV office to have your identity verified and your photo taken.
Bring one document that proves your identity and date of birth. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or a current out-of-state driver's license. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy or hospital record.
You also need to prove your New Hampshire residency. Bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. If you have a current license from another state, bring that too — it can speed up the process.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of New Hampshire residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
- The written test covers New Hampshire traffic laws and road signs; you can study the official DMV handbook online before you go.
- The road test happens in your own vehicle or a DMV vehicle, and you must pass both the written and road tests to receive your license.
- A New Hampshire driver's license costs a set fee that varies depending on how long you want it to be valid — typically four or eight years.
- If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a minimum waiting period before taking the road test.
The written test and what it covers
Before you take the road test, you must pass a written exam at the DMV office. The test has 40 questions about New Hampshire traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass.
The DMV publishes the official New Hampshire Driver's Manual online for free. This manual contains all the material covered on the test. You can read it before your visit and take practice tests through the DMV website to see which topics you need to study more.
The test is given on a computer at the DMV office. You will sit at a terminal and answer questions one at a time. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment, though you may have to pay the test fee again.
The road test and scheduling
After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the road test. The examiner will test your ability to handle basic driving tasks — starting the vehicle, steering, braking, parking, and following traffic laws. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DMV office.
You can use your own vehicle for the road test if it is registered and insured in New Hampshire. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection — the examiner checks the brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors before the test begins. If your vehicle does not pass, you can use a DMV vehicle instead, though this may cost an additional fee.
You must bring your learner's permit or current out-of-state license to the road test. You also need to bring proof of insurance for the vehicle you are using. If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you may need to wait a few days and pay the test fee again.
Fees and how long your license lasts
New Hampshire charges different fees depending on the validity period you choose. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the DMV website for current pricing before your visit.
Your license will show an expiration date. You can renew it before it expires by visiting the DMV again or, in some cases, by mail if you meet certain conditions. The DMV website lists which renewal methods are available for your situation.
Special rules if you are under 18
If you are a minor, New Hampshire requires you to complete a driver education course before you can get a license. This course covers classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor. Many high schools offer this course, and private driving schools also provide it.
After finishing driver education, you receive a learner's permit. You must hold this permit for a minimum of six months before you can take the road test. During this time, you can only drive with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front seat next to you.
Once you have held your learner's permit for the required time, you can schedule your road test. You will take the same written and road tests as adults, but the age-based restrictions on your license will be noted on the document itself.
If you are moving to New Hampshire from another state
If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written and road tests again. Instead, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a New Hampshire license by visiting the DMV with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number.
You will still need to have your photo taken and pay the license fee. The DMV will issue your new license with the same expiration date as your old one, or you can choose to extend it. Bring the same residency documents you would need for a new license process.
What to expect at your DMV visit
DMV offices can be busy, especially on weekends and near the end of the month. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time. Check the DMV website to find the office nearest you and see if appointments are available.
Bring all your documents in originals — photocopies are not accepted for identity or residency proof. Arrive a few minutes early and have your documents organized so the staff can process them quickly. If anything is missing or unclear, the DMV will tell you what you need to bring back.
After you pass both tests, you will receive your license on the same day or within a few days, depending on the office. The DMV will tell you how to pick it up or whether it will be mailed to your address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online or by mail?
No. You must take the written test in person at a DMV office. However, you can study the official Driver's Manual online before you go, and the DMV website offers practice tests to help you prepare.
What happens if I fail the road test?
You can retake the road test after a waiting period. The DMV will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt and whether you need to pay the test fee again. You do not have to retake the written test if you already passed it.
Do I need to take a vision test?
Yes. The DMV will test your vision at your appointment to make sure you meet the minimum standard for driving. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?
You usually receive your license the same day or within a few days. The DMV will tell you whether to pick it up in person or if it will be mailed to your address on file.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. The DMV website shows which renewal methods are available — some people can renew by mail, while others must visit an office in person.