How to reinstate your New Hampshire license after suspension or revocation
To reinstate a suspended or revoked New Hampshire driver's license, you must contact the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), pay any outstanding fines or fees, and meet the specific requirements tied to why your license was suspended or revoked. The process differs depending on whether your license was suspended (temporary) or revoked (permanent until reinstated), and the reason behind it — whether it was unpaid traffic fines, DUI-related, medical, or administrative.
The DMV will not automatically restore your driving privileges. You have to take action, and the timeline depends on what caused the suspension or revocation and whether you have completed all conditions for reinstatement.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the New Hampshire DMV directly to find out the exact reason your license was suspended or revoked and what you must do to reinstate it.
- You will need to pay all outstanding fines, fees, and court costs before the DMV will process a reinstatement request.
- DUI-related suspensions require completion of an alcohol education program and an ignition interlock device installation before reinstatement is possible.
- Medical suspensions require clearance from a doctor or the DMV's medical review officer before you can drive again.
- Once you meet all requirements, submit a reinstatement request to the DMV in writing or in person, along with the required fee.
Contact the DMV to learn why your license was suspended or revoked
Your first step is to call the New Hampshire DMV at (603) 271-2251 or visit their office in person at 23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready. The DMV will tell you the specific reason for the suspension or revocation and what conditions you must meet before reinstatement is possible.
Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, failure to appear in court, medical conditions, or administrative issues. Revocation is more serious and typically results from multiple violations, DUI convictions, or reckless driving. The reinstatement process is different for each reason, so knowing exactly why your license was taken away is essential.
Pay all outstanding fines, fees, and court costs
Before the DMV will reinstate your license, you must pay any unpaid traffic fines, court costs, and reinstatement fees. The amount varies depending on the reason for suspension or revocation. Contact the court that issued the fine or the DMV directly to find out the exact amount owed.
You can pay fines through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch's online payment system, by mail, or in person at the court. Once payment is confirmed, notify the DMV so they can update your record. Do not assume the court will automatically tell the DMV you have paid — follow up to confirm the payment has been processed.
Complete DUI-related requirements if applicable
If your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI (driving under the influence) conviction, reinstatement requires more than paying fines. You must complete an alcohol education program approved by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. The DMV will provide you with a list of approved programs in your area.
You will also need to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle before you can drive again. This device prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. The cost of installation and monthly monitoring is your responsibility. Once the program is complete and the device is installed, provide proof to the DMV as part of your reinstatement request.
Obtain medical clearance if your suspension was health-related
If your license was suspended due to a medical condition — such as a seizure disorder, vision loss, or cognitive decline — you will need clearance from your doctor or the DMV's medical review officer before reinstatement. The DMV may require you to pass a vision test, medical examination, or both.
Contact your doctor and ask them to complete the DMV's medical form, which you can read from the New Hampshire DMV website or request by phone. Submit the completed form to the DMV. If the DMV has concerns about your medical status, they may schedule an independent medical evaluation at your expense.
Submit your reinstatement request to the DMV
Once you have met all the conditions for reinstatement — paid fines, completed required programs, obtained medical clearance, or resolved whatever caused the suspension — submit a written reinstatement request to the DMV. Include your name, driver's license number, the reason for the suspension or revocation, proof that you have met all requirements, and the reinstatement fee (typically $25 to $50, depending on the reason).
You can submit your request by mail to the DMV at 23 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305, or in person at their office. Processing typically takes two to four weeks. Once approved, the DMV will mail you a new license or notify you to pick it up in person. If your request is denied, the DMV will explain what additional steps you need to take.
Understand the difference between suspension and revocation
A suspension is temporary — your license is taken away for a set period or until you meet certain conditions. Once the suspension period ends or you complete the required steps, your license is automatically or manually reinstated. Suspensions typically last from a few months to a few years, depending on the reason.
A revocation is permanent until you take action to reinstate it. The DMV does not automatically restore a revoked license. You must request reinstatement and meet all conditions before driving privileges are restored. Revocations are usually more serious and may require a longer waiting period before you can even request reinstatement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reinstate a suspended license in New Hampshire?
The timeline depends on the reason for suspension and how quickly you meet the reinstatement conditions. If you pay fines when ready, reinstatement can take two to four weeks. If you need to complete an alcohol education program or obtain medical clearance, the process may take several months.
Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?
No. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is illegal in New Hampshire and can result in additional fines, criminal charges, and further license suspension. Wait until the DMV confirms your license has been reinstated before driving.
What if I cannot pay all my fines at once?
Contact the court that issued the fine and ask about a payment plan. Many courts allow you to pay fines in installments. Once you have an agreement in place, provide proof of the payment plan to the DMV and continue making payments on schedule.
Do I need to retake the written or road test to reinstate my license?
Not usually, unless your suspension or revocation was due to medical reasons or multiple violations. The DMV will tell you during your initial call whether a test is required. If you are unsure, ask specifically when you contact them.
What happens if I drive with a suspended license?
Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in New Hampshire. You face fines up to $1,000, possible jail time, and additional license suspension. Your vehicle may also be impounded. The consequences are serious, so do not drive until your license is officially reinstated.