New Hampshire · Handbook chapter 2 · 3 min read
Chapter 2: Keeping your license
How New Hampshire drivers lose the privilege to drive: Youth Operator suspensions under 20, impaired driving, implied consent, demerit points, habitual offender rules and out-of-state violations.
Why this chapter matters
A license is a privilege that can be taken away. The test checks that you know the suspension periods for young drivers and the main ways any driver can lose a license.
The Youth Operator "under 20" law
Under RSA 263:14, the Director of Motor Vehicles may, after a hearing, suspend or revoke the license of a driver under 20 who has committed certain motor vehicle offenses:
| Offense | Suspension or revocation |
|---|---|
| First | 20 to 40 days |
| Second | 45 to 90 days |
| Third or later | 90 to 180 days, plus an in-person driver attitude program before reinstatement |
- A Youth Operator convicted of impaired driving, reckless operation or speeding more than 30 mph over the limit faces further penalties.
- The Director may also act on evidence of misuse or abuse of driving privileges, such as driving that is an immediate hazard, or a pattern of offenses showing repeated disregard for safety.
- Involvement in a crash causing death or serious bodily injury can also lead to action.
Common ways to lose driving privileges
- Impaired driving: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription or over-the-counter medicine that impairs you. You are legally intoxicated at a BAC of .08% or more, or .02% or more if under 21.
- Refusing a chemical test: driving in New Hampshire means you have already agreed (implied consent) to a test of blood, breath or urine if arrested for an alcohol or drug offense. Refusing can cost you your license.
- Demerit points: points are added for offenses such as speeding, running lights or stop signs, improper passing and impaired driving. The size of the points varies with the offense, and the results can depend on the driver's age.
- Out-of-state violations can be reported to New Hampshire and affect your record here.
Habitual offenders
A driver whose record holds the number of convictions set by law must attend a hearing. If declared a habitual offender, the driver loses the license for 1 to 4 years. Driving after that declaration can bring 1 to 5 years of imprisonment.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a first suspension for a driver under 20?
At least 20 days and no more than 40 days, after a hearing.
What extra condition comes with a third offense under 20?
Completing an approved in-person driver attitude program before the license is reinstated.
What is implied consent?
By driving in New Hampshire you are treated as having agreed to a blood, breath or urine test if arrested for an alcohol or drug offense.
Can a ticket in another state affect my New Hampshire record?
Yes. Out-of-state violations may be reported to New Hampshire.
How long is a habitual offender revocation?
1 to 4 years.
Based on Section 2 of the New Hampshire Driver's Manual (NH Division of Motor Vehicles).