The written part of the New Hampshire driving test is a computer-based knowledge test, and you need 80% to pass. The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not publish the number of questions, and unlike most states it does not issue a learner permit card to teens: you practice with a licensed adult first, then take the knowledge test when you apply for your license.
New Hampshire permit test at a glance
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Questions | Not published by the DMV. The time limit depends on the number of questions |
| Pass mark | 80% on every knowledge exam |
| Agency | New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (dmv.nh.gov) |
| Where | In person at a DMV office, by appointment only |
| Online option | No |
| Format | Touch-screen multiple choice, with optional audio on headphones |
| Languages | English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Portuguese, Farsi and American Sign Language |
| Retest wait | 10 calendar days after a failed exam |
| Fee | The DMV lists an application fee but not the amount on its testing pages. Check dmv.nh.gov |
How many questions are on the New Hampshire driving test?
The DMV does not publish a question count. Its testing page says only that each exam has a time limit based on the number of questions, that exams are completely random, and that every knowledge exam needs a passing grade of 80%. In practice that means you can get roughly one question in five wrong, but aiming for that line is risky. Practice until you score well above 80%.
Because the exams are random, a retake will not repeat the questions from your first try. Memorizing answers does not work; understanding the manual does.
What's on the New Hampshire driving test
The knowledge test is specific to the license type and comes from the New Hampshire Driver's Manual. Expect:
- Road signs, signals and pavement markings.
- Right of way, including roundabouts, which are common in New Hampshire.
- Winter driving, wildlife on rural roads, and safe following distance.
- Alcohol and drug laws and their penalties.
- Youth operator rules: no driving from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m., and for the first 6 months only one passenger under 25 who is not a family member.
What makes New Hampshire different: no permit card, and an ASL test
Most states hand teens a learner permit after the written test. New Hampshire does not. Teens can begin practice driving at 15 and a half with a licensed adult, without a permit card, and take the knowledge test when they apply for a youth operator license at 16. Applicants under 18 must also complete an approved driver education course.
New Hampshire is also one of the few states that offers the knowledge test in American Sign Language, alongside English and six other spoken languages. Tell the licensing representative if you want the audio option or a language other than English.
Since there is no permit, keep your own written log of every practice drive: date, time, conditions and who supervised. Ask the DMV or your driver education school about the current hour requirements.
How to study for the New Hampshire permit test
- Read the New Hampshire Driver's Manual one chapter at a time and note every number.
- Learn road signs by shape and color, then by meaning.
- Take practice tests and write down every question you miss.
- Review the youth operator rules: 15 and a half, 1 a.m. to 4 a.m., 6 months, under 25.
- Book your appointment once you score comfortably above 80% several times in a row.
What to bring and how to book
All DMV tests are by appointment only. Book your knowledge test through the Appointments and Services page at dmv.nh.gov. For a first license, the DMV lists:
- A completed Application for Driver License (DSMV 450)
- Proof of identity and residency from the DMV's Required Documents list (REAL ID or standard)
- Proof of driver education if you are under 18
- The license fee
- Glasses or contacts if you need them for the vision test
Read the DMV's Driving Licensing Requirements for Minors before you go, since a parent or guardian is usually involved for applicants under 18. The road test is scheduled once you pass the knowledge test.
Can you take the New Hampshire permit test online?
No. The knowledge test is taken in person on a touch-screen computer at a DMV office, by appointment.
What happens if you fail the New Hampshire knowledge test?
You must wait 10 calendar days before you retest. The same applies if the test ends early because you ran out of time or missed too many questions. The next exam will have different questions, so spend the 10 days on the parts of the manual you found hardest. The DMV does not publish a limit on the number of attempts.
New Hampshire driving test FAQ
How many questions are on the New Hampshire driving test?
The DMV does not publish the number. It says each exam's time limit depends on the number of questions and that you need 80% to pass.
Does New Hampshire have a learner's permit?
No permit card is issued to teens. You can practice from 15 and a half with a licensed adult and apply for a youth operator license at 16.
Can I take the New Hampshire knowledge test in another language?
Yes. It is offered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, Portuguese, Farsi and American Sign Language.
How long do I wait to retake the test?
10 calendar days after a failed exam.
