What documents you need to bring to the DMV

New Hampshire requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of New Hampshire residency when you explore for a driver's license. The state is strict about which documents count for each category, so bringing the wrong papers means a wasted trip.

For proof of identity, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. A birth certificate alone does not count as proof of identity — it only proves citizenship. If you do not have a passport or military ID and your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to get one of those first.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. A birth certificate does not count. If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV visit, though this adds time to the process.

For proof of New Hampshire residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 30 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. A credit card statement does not count.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document from each of three categories: identity, Social Security number, and New Hampshire residency.
  • A birth certificate alone does not satisfy the identity requirement — you need a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license.
  • Proof of residency must be dated within the last 30 days and show your current address.
  • You can bring your documents to any New Hampshire DMV office, and processing typically takes a few minutes if everything is in order.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process form in person.

Where to go and what to expect

New Hampshire has DMV offices in most cities and towns. You do not need an appointment — you can walk in during business hours and take a number. Wait times vary by location and time of day; smaller towns usually have shorter lines than Manchester or Nashua.

When you arrive, tell the staff member at the counter that you are explore for a new license. They will hand you a form called the process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DSMV 10). Fill it out completely, including your signature. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the form as well.

After you submit the form and your documents, a staff member will verify everything and take your photograph. You will also take a written test on New Hampshire traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can retake it the same day if you fail.

If you pass the test, you will pay the fee and receive your license on the spot. New Hampshire licenses are valid for five years if you are 18 or older, and four years if you are under 18.

The written test and what it covers

The written test focuses on New Hampshire traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will see questions about speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean. The test is multiple choice, and you have as much time as you need to finish it.

New Hampshire provides a free study guide called the New Hampshire Driver's Manual, available on the DMV website and in print at any DMV office. Reading through this manual before your test significantly improves your chances of passing. The manual covers everything the test asks about.

You do not need to pass a driving test (also called a road test) to get a basic driver's license in New Hampshire. The written test is the only test required. However, if you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for a set period before you can take the written test for a full license.

Age requirements and restrictions for drivers under 18

If you are 16 or 17, you cannot go straight to a full driver's license. You must first obtain a learner's permit, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front passenger seat. You hold the permit for at least six months before you can test for a full license.

To get a learner's permit, bring the same documents you would bring for a full license, plus a signed parental consent form if you are under 18. You will take the same written test. Once you pass, you receive the permit when ready.

After holding the permit for six months and practicing with a licensed adult, you can return to the DMV to test for a full license. You do not take another written test — you only need to pass a road test, which is a 20-minute drive with a DMV examiner who watches your driving and scores your performance.

Fees and how long the license lasts

The fee for a five-year driver's license is $124 if you are 18 or older. A four-year license for drivers under 18 costs $99. These prices do not change based on where you explore — all New Hampshire DMV offices charge the same amount. Payment is cash, check, or card.

Your license is valid for the number of years printed on it. When it expires, you must renew it. New Hampshire allows you to renew by mail or online if your license has not been suspended and you have no medical conditions that require an in-person visit. Renewal by mail or online costs less than getting a new license in person.

What to do if you are moving to New Hampshire from another state

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a New Hampshire license without taking the written test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of New Hampshire residency to any DMV office. You will still have your photograph taken and pay the license fee.

Your new New Hampshire license will be valid for five years from the date you receive it, regardless of when your old license expired. If your out-of-state license has expired, you can still exchange it, but you will need to bring an additional form of identity (such as a passport) along with the expired license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a New Hampshire license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. New Hampshire requires proof of a Social Security number for all driver's licenses. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. This process can take several weeks.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot prove my citizenship?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from the state where you were born. Contact the vital records office in that state. Once you receive it, bring it along with your other required documents to the DMV. The process takes time, so plan ahead.

Do I need to pass a vision test?

Yes. The DMV will test your vision as part of the licensing process. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a letter confirming your vision meets the legal standard before you can receive your license.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Renewing early does not change the expiration date — your new license will still expire five years from the date you receive it, not five years from when your old one expired.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra cost. Most people who fail study the manual more carefully and pass on the second attempt. If you fail multiple times, consider asking the DMV staff for clarification on the topics you are struggling with.