New Hampshire Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
A license to carry a concealed firearm issued to a nonresident by another state shall be honored if such state provides a reciprocal privilege.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
The 65 mph speed limit
Prima Facie
All the lower limits
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| Urban | 30 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
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| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
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| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | *Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident is not investigated by the authorities) within 15 days in writing to the Director, Division of Motor Vehicles, Financial Responsibility, Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03305.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Financial responsibility law.
Security-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
New Hampshire also has a future proof-type law requiring motorists to show financial responsibility after the conviction of certain serious traffic offenses.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/25,000 and $1,000 per person for medical and $25,000 for uninsured motorists.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- New Hampshire has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 6-month driver's license suspension.
- Handguns must be unloaded and may be carried openly or in a gun case in the passenger compartment; rifles and shotguns must be unloaded while in a vehicle.
- Studded tires are permitted.
- Tire chains are not required.
- New Hampshire does not have a seat belt law.
- New Hampshire has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 13 years of age. Children under age 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- New Hampshire has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for persons under 18 years of age.
- Registration must be carried in the vehicle. Insurance card is not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 603/271-3636
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 77