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