About the New Hampshire DMV written test
The New Hampshire knowledge test (often searched as the New Hampshire permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official New Hampshire driver handbook published by the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles.
New Hampshire does not issue learner's permits. Applicants take a vision test, a multiple-choice knowledge test (80% to pass) and a road test at a DMV appointment, and applicants under 18 must first complete driver education.
New Hampshire permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- New Hampshire issues no learner's permit; you may practice driving with a licensed adult 25 or older from age 15½, and the minimum age to apply for a license is 16.
- Passing score
- You need a score of at least 80% to pass the knowledge test.
- Vision screening
- You must read the 20/40 line with both eyes.
- Permit fee
- $50 for a standard operator license or $60 for a REAL ID operator license.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.08 for drivers 21+; 0.02 for drivers under 21.
- Seat belt law
- Drivers and passengers under 18 must wear a seat belt; children under 7 (unless 57 inches or taller) need a child restraint, and under 2 must be rear-facing.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What New Hampshire drivers should know
- Park at least 15 feet from a hydrant, 20 feet from a crosswalk and 50 feet from a railroad crossing.
- Stop at least 25 feet from a school bus with flashing red lights.
- Under-18 drivers cannot drive 1 a.m. to 4 a.m. and may not use any mobile device.
- Give cyclists at least 3 feet at 30 mph or less, plus 1 foot per 10 mph above 30.
- Work zone speeds must be at least 10 mph below the posted limit.
Topics covered in our New Hampshire practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the New Hampshire permit test
- Read the official New Hampshire driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.