How to Get Your New Hampshire Learner’s Permit
Verified by Steven Litvintchouk
Methodology & Editorial PolicyHow to study (step by step)
- Start preparing for the knowledge test
Read the New Hampshire Driver's Manual a number of times to learn about the rules of the road and general driving conditions.
- Take the Diagnostic Test
Get a quick baseline on what you already know.
- Practice Tests (At least 2–3 sets)
Complete at least 2–3 sets. Short 10-minute sessions tend to work best.
- Clear your mistakes
Use the Challenge Bank to review every missed question and correct it.
- Practice exam simulator
Keep practicing until you’re consistently scoring 80% or higher.
- Begin supervised driving practice (NO PERMIT)
At age 15½ or older, start practicing driving under the supervision of a licensed adult age 25 or older. However, no official learner's (instruction) permit is required. Also, no consent from your parent or guardian is required during this stage.
- 3–5 short study sessions per week
- 80–120 total practice questions
NH DMV permit test - what to expect
The New Hampshire permit test has 40 questions. You must get 32 correct (80%) to pass.
- Where: Any New Hampshire DMV office (find locations)
- Bring: ID + SSN + residency proof; NH does not issue learner permits; Youth Operator license until age 21. (see checklist)
- If you fail: Retake after 10 calendar days.
- Commonly missed: headlight usage and when to turn them on, railroad crossing procedures.
