Driving Without a Valid (or on a Suspended) License in New Hampshire

New Hampshire prohibits driving without a valid driver's license. This article defines this violation, the possible penalties, and the exemptions to the license requirement.

Driving Without a License in New Hampshire

Generally, every person who operates a motor vehicle on a New Hampshire highway must carry a valid license while driving. (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 263:1.)

Penalties for Unlicensed Driving in New Hampshire

Unlicensed driving is a class B misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $1,200 and four traffic violation demerits points. A motorist who drives on an expired license can be convicted of a violation (which carries up to $1,000 in fines) or a class B misdemeanor for a second or subsequent offense. Any unlicensed driver who also commits a traffic violation will be ineligible for a driver's license for 12 months.

Penalties for Driving Without a New Hampshire License in Your Possession

A driver who was issued a license but was not carrying it while driving can be charged with a class B misdemeanor punishable by a maximum $1,200 fine and two demerits. The driver will not be convicted if a then-valid license is produced within 48 hours of the citation.

Exceptions to New Hampshire's Driver's License Requirement

Non-resident drivers with valid driver's licenses from their home state or country can drive in New Hampshire without an in-state license, subject to New Hampshire age restrictions. However, new residents must obtain an in-state license within 60 days of residency.

Driving While Suspended or Revoked in New Hampshire

A person who operates a vehicle while on a suspended or revoked license is subject to fines, jail, and extended license sanctions. (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 263:64.)

Penalties for Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License in New Hampshire

Generally, driving while suspended or revoked is a violation, punishable by a fine of $250 to $1,000. A second or subsequent offense will generally result in a fine of $500 to $1,000. But if the prior offenses occurred within the last seven years, the current offense will be a class B misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum $1,200 fine and possible court monitoring.

Penalties for Driving While Suspended for a DWI in New Hampshire

A violator whose license was suspended due to a DWI (driving while intoxicated) will be sentenced to seven days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The driver's license will also be revoked for an additional year.

Penalties for Driving While Suspended for Reckless Driving in New Hampshire

Violators who were suspended due to a reckless driving conviction face class B misdemeanor. The maximum fine is $1,200.

Penalties for Causing an Injury Accident While Suspended in New Hampshire

Any person who causes an injury accident while suspended or revoked can be charged with a class B felony, punishable by up to $4,000 in fines and a maximum of seven years in prison.

New Hampshire Imposes Additional Suspension Periods for Driving While Suspended

All persons found guilty of driving while suspended or revoked are subject to an additional suspension or revocation of a like-period of time (up to one year) as the current suspension or revocation. Additionally, six demerits will be added to the driver's record.

Talk to a New Hampshire Defense Attorney

Unlicensed driving can lead to serious consequences. If you've been arrested for unlicensed driving or driving while suspended, seek legal assistance. An experienced defense attorney can review your case and help you decide on the best course of action