New Hampshire Permit Test Practice 2026
The New Hampshire learner’s permit test runs 40 questions and asks for 80% to pass. Below: 6 sample questions and a New Hampshire cheat sheet you can save. DMV Ready has unlimited practice in the same format, no signup.
What’s on the New Hampshire permit test?
New Hampshire’s written permit test is 40 questions, multiple choice, with a 80% passing bar - that’s about 32 right out of 40. Questions are pulled from the New Hampshire driver handbook and cover traffic laws, road signs, right of way, signals, and a handful of New Hampshire-specific rules. New Hampshire’s DMV uses 40 questions; expect winter-driving scenarios and a fair share of right-of-way material.
Questions split into two kinds: factual recall (signs, limits, right-of-way order) and short scenarios (what to do when X happens). Recall is the larger share.
Generic DMV prep doesn’t cut it for New Hampshire. The state’s handbook has rules other states don’t, and the test reflects that. Practice on New Hampshire-specific questions or you’ll waste time on material that won’t be there.
Sample questions (free, no signup)
Here are 6 practice questions in the New Hampshire format. Tap each to reveal the answer and the explanation. Want unlimited? Get the app.
Question 1: A 17-year-old driver can use a cell phone while driving only to:
- Call their parents
- Use GPS navigation
- Report an emergency to 911
Correct answer: Report an emergency to 911
Why: Drivers under 18 shall not use any mobile electronic device while driving, except to report an emergency to the enhanced 911 system or any public safety agency.
💡 Memory tip: 911 = emergency only; no calls or GPS for teens.
Question 2: What is the speed limit in a posted school zone in New Hampshire?
- 15 mph
- 10 mph below the usual posted speed limit
- 20 mph
Correct answer: 10 mph below the usual posted speed limit
Why: In New Hampshire, the speed limit in a posted school zone is 10 mph below the usual posted speed limit during designated school zone hours.
💡 Memory tip: 10 mph slower = school zone speed limit, watch for kids!
Question 3: What specific weather-related law does New Hampshire have for vehicles?
- Requirements for winter tire installation
- Mandatory use of windshield wipers in rain
- Laws relating to proper clearing of snow and ice from vehicles
Correct answer: Laws relating to proper clearing of snow and ice from vehicles
Why: New Hampshire has laws relating to the proper clearing of snow and ice from vehicles, which is particularly important during winter conditions in the state.
💡 Memory tip: NH law: Clear snow and ice before driving. No “snow hats.”
Question 4: What law requires New Hampshire drivers to clear snow and ice from their vehicles?
- Vehicle Maintenance Law
- Jessica’s Law
- Winter Safety Act
Correct answer: Jessica’s Law
Why: Jessica’s Law is specific to New Hampshire and was passed after the death of Jessica Smith, who was killed when ice from a tractor-trailer hit her vehicle. Since 2002, NH drivers have been legally required to clear snow and ice off their vehicles.
💡 Memory tip: Jessica’s Law: NH drivers de-ice or pay the price.
Question 5: Who can accompany a 15 ½-year-old learning to drive in New Hampshire?
- Any licensed driver over 21 years old
- A certified driving instructor only
- A parent, legal guardian, or responsible licensed adult 25 or older
Correct answer: A parent, legal guardian, or responsible licensed adult 25 or older
Why: According to the NH manual, a learning driver must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or a responsible adult who is 25 years of age or older and who is a licensed driver.
💡 Memory tip: 15½? Ride with parent/guardian or licensed ‘responsible adult’ 25+.
Question 6: What type of license allows you to drive a single vehicle weighing 26,000 pounds or less in New Hampshire?
- Class B
- Class A
- Class D
Correct answer: Class D
Why: In New Hampshire, a Class D license permits you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or less, as long as you are not towing a vehicle over 10,000 pounds or transporting hazardous materials.
💡 Memory tip: Class D for Daily driving: 26,000 or less, no towing over 10,000.
New Hampshire-specific rules to know
Eight New Hampshire-specific rules worth committing to memory before test day. These are the ones that catch first-time testers.
- Alcohol & DUI - Refusal to allow testing under the ‘Implied Consent’ law may result in loss of driving privileges.
- Out-of-state drivers - Traffic violations occurring out-of-state may be reported to New Hampshire and may affect a driver’s driving record and driving privileges.
- Fines & penalties - Under no circumstances may a person drive in New Hampshire if their driving privileges are suspended or revoked even if they possess a license from another state.
- Teen / provisional drivers - Youth Operator License holders under 18 shall NOT operate a motor vehicle between the hours of 1:00 am and 4:00 am.
- Fines & penalties - The learning exception does not apply to persons whose driving privileges have been suspended or revoked in New Hampshire or any other state.
- Driving rule - New Hampshire may deny driving privileges to persons who have shown indifference for the safety and welfare of others, disrespect for the laws of the state, and indifference to orders of the…
- Seat belts & restraints - In New Hampshire, safety restraints are required for anyone under the age of 18.
- Speed limits - The maximum speed limit is 30 miles per hour in any business or urban residence district as defined in RSA 259:118.
How to schedule your New Hampshire permit test
You can typically schedule your New Hampshire permit test online through the official New Hampshire DMV / motor-vehicle agency website. Bring proof of identity, residency, and (if under 18) the required parent/guardian documentation. Fees vary by jurisdiction - check your local DMV office for current pricing. Some states require completion of driver’s education before testing.
This page references rules from the New Hampshire Driver’s Handbook. We are not affiliated with the New Hampshire DMV.
Studying in a neighboring state?
Each state’s exam is different. If you’re studying for a different state, here are nearby ones: Vermont permit test practice, Maine permit test practice, Massachusetts permit test practice.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the New Hampshire permit test?
The New Hampshire DMV permit test has 40 questions. You need to answer at least 80% correctly to pass.
What is the passing score for the New Hampshire permit test?
You need 80% to pass - that’s roughly 32 out of 40 questions correct.
How old do I have to be to take the New Hampshire permit test?
The minimum age in New Hampshire is 15.5. Check your local DMV office for any additional requirements like a parent’s signature or driver’s education enrollment.
Can I retake the New Hampshire permit test if I fail?
Yes. Most New Hampshire DMV offices let you retake the test, often after a short waiting period. Some locations charge a small re-test fee. Check your local DMV office for the exact rules.
Is the DMV Ready app good for New Hampshire?
It’s built around state-specific content. For New Hampshire, that means 40-question practice exams at 80% pass mark, with questions drawn from the New Hampshire driver handbook.
Practice unlimited New Hampshire questions in DMV Ready
Free to download. 40 questions per practice exam, 80% to pass - same format as the New Hampshire test. No ads.
Practice in another state
Each state writes its own permit test - same general rules, different specific questions. Pick yours:
