From Global Roads to the Granite State: Exchanging Your Foreign License in NH

Welcome to New Hampshire! Moving to the Granite State is an exciting new adventure. A key part of settling in is obtaining a New Hampshire driver's license, which allows you the freedom to explore everything this beautiful state has to offer. If you are an experienced driver holding a license from another country, you'll need to navigate the process of converting it.

This guide, based on the requirements of the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), provides a clear, step-by-step roadmap to make exchanging your foreign license as straightforward as possible.

When Do I Need a New Hampshire License?

Once you establish residency in New Hampshire, you are required to obtain a New Hampshire driver's license within 60 days. You are considered a resident if you have a regular place of abode or a permanent address in the state. Driving with a valid foreign license, especially when paired with an International Driving Permit (IDP), is acceptable for temporary visitors, but not for permanent residents.

Testing Requirements: Does NH Have Reciprocity?

This is a critical point for all newcomers. While some U.S. states have broad agreements to waive tests, New Hampshire's rules are more specific.

• Drivers from Canada and France: New Hampshire has a reciprocity agreement with Canada and France. If you hold a valid license from a Canadian province or from France, you can typically exchange it for a New Hampshire license without taking the written knowledge test or the road skills test. You will still be required to pass a vision test.
• Drivers from All Other Countries: If you hold a driver's license from any country other than Canada or France (including Germany, South Korea, Taiwan, etc.), you must pass the full three-part examination: the vision test, the written knowledge test, and the road skills test.

There are no exceptions to this rule. All applicants must meet the same standards.

Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents

The most detailed part of the process is collecting the correct documentation. The NH DMV has strict requirements to verify your identity and legal presence in the United States. All documents must be original or certified copies.

Required Documentation for Non-U.S. Citizens:

• Completed Application for Driver License (Form DSMV 450).
• Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence: You must present valid, unexpired documents from the U.S. government showing your identity and that you are legally in the country. This typically includes:
  • A valid, unexpired passport from your country of origin.
  • Your visa and I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
  • Permanent Resident Card (I-551 or "Green Card").
  • Employment Authorization Document (I-766).
• Social Security Information: You must provide proof of your Social Security Number or a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) indicating that you are not eligible for one.
• Two Proofs of New Hampshire Residency: You must provide two different documents that show your current physical NH address. Acceptable documents include:
  • Utility bills
  • Bank statements
  • A signed lease or rental agreement
  • A letter from a New Hampshire college or university

Important Note on Document Translations:

If any of your primary documents (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, if used) are not in English, they must be accompanied by a certified translation. The translation must be done by a qualified translator and certified as accurate. Prepare this in advance to avoid delays.

Step 2: The Application and Testing Process

1. Make an Appointment: All driver license transactions at the NH DMV require an appointment. You can schedule this online through the official DMV website.
2. Submit Your Application and Documents: At your appointment, you will submit your completed application form and all your gathered documents for verification. You will also surrender your foreign driver's license.
3. Take the Vision Test: All applicants, regardless of country of origin, must pass a vision screening.
4. Take the Written and Road Tests (if required): If you are not from Canada or France, you will need to take the knowledge and skills tests. It's highly recommended to study the official New Hampshire Driver's Manual to prepare for the 40-question written test. After passing the written test, you will take the road test, which includes maneuvers like parallel parking and a three-point turn.

Step 3: Pay the Fees and Receive Your License

Once you have successfully passed all required tests and your documents have been verified, you will pay the licensing fee.

• License Fee: The fee for a standard 5-year New Hampshire driver's license is $50.
• Retest Fee: If you fail the road test, there is a $20 fee to retake it.

After paying the fees and having your picture taken, you will receive your new New Hampshire driver's license. The validity of your license may be tied to the expiration date of your legal presence documents.

Quick-Reference Process:

1. Determine your testing requirements based on your country of origin (Canada/France vs. others).
2. Make an appointment with the NH DMV.
3. Gather all required documents: Passport, visa/immigration papers, proofs of residency, and certified translations if needed.
4. Study the NH Driver's Manual if you need to take the written test.
5. At your appointment: Submit documents, pass the vision test, and pass the written/road tests if applicable.
6. Pay the fee to be issued your license.

Exchanging your foreign license in New Hampshire is a clear, rules-based process. By understanding the requirements and preparing your documents, you can navigate the system efficiently and begin your driving journey in the Granite State.