Hardship License and Restricted Driving in New Hampshire

1. What is a Hardship License and how can I obtain one in New Hampshire?


A Hardship License, also known as a “limited purpose license,” is a type of restricted driver’s license issued by the state of New Hampshire. A hardship license allows an individual to drive for certain limited purposes, such as going to work, attending medical appointments, or taking care of essential errands. To obtain a hardship license, an applicant must meet certain criteria and provide proof of need. The New Hampshire Department of Safety provides information about the application process for a hardship license on its website.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for a Hardship License in New Hampshire?


In order to qualify for a hardship license in New Hampshire, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be at least 16 years old;
2. Have a valid driver’s license that has been suspended or revoked;
3. Have a need for a restricted driver’s license due to a demonstrated hardship;
4. Not have been convicted of any major drug or alcohol-related offense within the past year;
5. Not have any pending criminal charges or unresolved suspension/revocation issues;
6. Not have more than one prior alcohol-related offense in the past 5 years;
7. Not have more than two prior drug-related convictions in the past 5 years;
8. Obtain an SR-22 certificate from their insurance company certifying that they have liability insurance coverage; and
9. Pass the required vision and knowledge tests and pay all applicable fees.

3. What are the restrictions on a Hardship License in New Hampshire?


In New Hampshire, a hardship license (also known as an occupational limited license or OLL) is available to those who have been suspended for a driving-related offense. The restrictions on a Hardship License in New Hampshire include:

1. The driver must agree to complete any/all court-mandated treatment, DUI classes, or probation requirements.
2. The driver may only operate a vehicle for certain purposes, such as going to and from work, school, or medical appointments.
3. The vehicle must be equipped with an ignition interlock device, which requires the driver to provide a breath sample before the vehicle will start.
4. The driver must maintain SR-22 insurance coverage at all times.
5. The driver may be subject to additional restrictions imposed by the court or other government agency.

4. How much does a Hardship License cost in New Hampshire?


The cost of a Hardship License in New Hampshire varies. The state has several different programs available that offer different fees, depending on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, the fees range from $200 – $400.

5. What documents do I need to apply for a Hardship License in New Hampshire?


In order to apply for a Hardship License in New Hampshire, an applicant must submit the following documents:
* Letter of Request for Hardship License
* Proof of identity (Valid driver’s license or State ID)
* Evidence of hardship, such as proof of loss of employment or family medical emergency
* Proof of completion of a DWI/DUI education class
* Alcohol/drug screening (if applicable)
* Application fee
* Proof of financial responsibility, such as an SR-22 form or other insurance document

6. How long does it take to get a Hardship License in New Hampshire?


The amount of time it takes to obtain a Hardship License in New Hampshire depends on the individual’s circumstances. Generally, the process can take anywhere from one to six months.

7. Can I use a Hardship License to drive to work in New Hampshire?


No, you cannot use a Hardship License to drive to work in New Hampshire. A Hardship License is only issued to those who have had their license suspended or revoked due to a DWI/DUI conviction, and it only permits them to drive for essential purposes such as attending medical appointments or fulfilling court-mandated obligations.

8. Can I use a Hardship License to attend medical appointments in New Hampshire?


No, a Hardship License cannot be used to attend medical appointments in New Hampshire. However, a Restricted License may be obtained for medical purposes. This license allows you to drive between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. for medical purposes only.

9. What are the laws for Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


The laws for Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire are as follows:

1. The court shall determine if an individual is eligible for an RDP.
2. The court may impose any reasonable restrictions on the RDP, such as time of day, geographic area, or purpose, as long as the restrictions reasonably relate to the safety of the public.
3. The court must issue an RDP order that includes the restrictions imposed by the court, the expiration date of the RDP, and the date by which the individual must obtain insurance.
4. The individual must carry a copy of the RDP order while operating any motor vehicle and show it to any law enforcement officer upon request.
5. The individual must also maintain a valid liability insurance policy that meets the requirements of New Hampshire law throughout the term of the RDP.
6. The individual must have a valid driver’s license in order to receive an RDP.
7. The period for which an RDP is issued shall not exceed one year or the maximum period of suspension imposed by the court, whichever is less.
8. An individual may be issued an RDP more than once but not more than three times within any 5-year period.
9. If an individual violates any restriction imposed under an RDP, their privilege may be revoked at any time by the court.

10. Can I apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


No, New Hampshire does not offer RDPs.

11. How much does a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) cost in New Hampshire?


The cost of a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire will depend on the individual’s situation. Generally, costs can range from $75 to $150 for the application fee and $50 to $100 per day for any required supervising driver. Costs may also vary depending on the individual’s court fees, which are set by the county in which the individual resides.

12. What documents do I need to apply for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


In order to apply for an RDP in New Hampshire, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Completed Application for Restricted Driving Privilege.

2. Proof of identity (such as a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID).

3. Proof of insurance and financial responsibility (SR-22 form).

4. Proof of enrollment in an alcohol/drug education or treatment program.

5. Current letter of enrollment from an alcohol/drug education or treatment program.

6. Payment in the form of either a check or money order for $100.00 (non-refundable).

13. What are the restrictions for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


The restrictions for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire depend on the reason the person was given the RDP. Generally, an RDP allows a person to drive during a court-approved time frame for specific purposes. Common restrictions include:

– Driver must have an ignition interlock device installed in any vehicle the driver operates.
– May only drive for court-approved purposes, which may include work, school, medical appointments, and other necessary trips.
– May not drive between midnight and 5:00am.
– Must obey all traffic laws while driving, including speed limits and DUI/DWI laws.
– Must carry proof of an RDP whenever operating a vehicle.
– Must submit to regular breath tests when requested by law enforcement.

14. How long does it take to get a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


The process for obtaining a Restricted Driving Privilege in New Hampshire typically takes around two weeks. However, the length of time can vary depending on the individual circumstances, such as any additional requirements or paperwork that must be submitted.

15. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) to drive to work in New Hampshire?


No, the state of New Hampshire does not allow the use of Restricted Driving Privileges (RDPs). However, you may be eligible for an Occupational License which allows you to operate a motor vehicle for work purposes.

16. Can I use a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) for medical appointments in New Hampshire?


No, New Hampshire does not have a restricted driving privilege program.

17. Are there any other restrictions on my driving privileges in New Hampshire?


Yes. In addition to the restrictions listed above, New Hampshire also prohibits drivers under the age of 21 from using a cell phone or other electronic device while operating a motor vehicle, as well as from transporting passengers under age 18 unless accompanied by a licensed adult. Drivers with a junior license or permit are also prohibited from driving between the hours of 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM unless accompanied by a licensed adult over the age of 25.

18. Who is eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


In New Hampshire, individuals who have had their license suspended or revoked due to certain offenses, such as DUI, can be eligible for a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP). The individual must satisfy all requirements set forth by the Department of Motor Vehicles. These requirements include having a valid license, proof of a need for driving privileges, completion of an approved alcohol/drug education program, and payment of any applicable fees.

19. How long is the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


In New Hampshire, the validity of a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) is typically for 90 days, but could be as short as 30 days or as long as 6 months.

20. Are there any additional costs associated with obtaining a Hardship License or Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) in New Hampshire?


Yes. In addition to the regular fee associated with obtaining a Hardship License or RDP, the applicant must also pay a $100 fee for the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Program, as well as any related towing and storage costs, and/or costs related to an ignition interlock device installation or monitoring.