Portsmouth New Hampshire Online Driver Education and Portsmouth New Hampshire Licensing Procedures
We're happy that you have decided to begin the challenging process of applying for your Portsmouth New Hampshire Learner's Permit or first Portsmouth New Hampshire driver's license. Portsmouth New Hampshire has a Graduated Driver License Program for Portsmouth New Hampshire teen drivers, otherwise known as GRAD (Gradual Rearing of Adult Drivers) that allows new drivers to safely gain driving experience before obtaining full driving privileges. There are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that applying for your first Portsmouth New Hampshire driver's license is as uncomplicated--and even rewarding--an experience as possible. We know that learning to drive can be as daunting as it is exciting, and so we have put together this short information sheet to help you avoid any snags along the way. So, let's get started!
The Portsmouth New Hampshire Instructional Permit or Portsmouth New Hampshire Youth Operator License
When you turn 15 and a half, you can practice driving as long as a parent, legal guardian, driving instructor or licensed driver who is at least 21 is seated next to you. However, be sure to carry proper identification with you at all times! And of course all passengers must wear seatbelts.
After you turn 16 and have met a few requirements, you’ll be ready for the next step in the Portsmouth New Hampshire Graduated License Program, the Portsmouth New Hampshire Youth Operator License.
The Portsmouth New Hampshire Provisional Driver License or Portsmouth New Hampshire Full License
At 16, you may apply for a Portsmouth New Hampshire Youth Operator License. If you can satisfy the following list of requirements, then head on down to your local Portsmouth New Hampshire DMV with your parent or guardian and submit your application. Here are the requirements:
- A certificate of completion for a Portsmouth New Hampshire approved driver education course
- Proof of identity (your birth certificate plus 1 other)
- Social Security Number
- A licensing certificate
- A driver log sheet showing you have practiced driving for 40 hours, 10 of which must be at night
- A signed parent or legal guardian authorization certificate
- The driver license fee
Submit your application materials. Then, you’ll have to take the following tests:
- vision screening
- written test
- the dreaded road test (but by now you've gotten enough practice that it shouldn't be that big a deal)
If you pass, then congratulate yourself: you’ve just earned your Portsmouth New Hampshire Youth Operator License! But because you're still learning the ropes, you’ll still have to drive with a few restrictions for a little while longer.
Portsmouth New Hampshire Teen Driver License Penalties and Restrictions
There are several restrictions you need to be aware of regarding your Portsmouth New Hampshire Youth Operator’s License:
- Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt
- No driving between 1AM and 5AM unless for emergencies, your job, or a school-related activity
- No passengers under 25 except for family
After you turn 18, these Portsmouth New Hampshire teen driver restrictions are removed. Freedom!
Portsmouth New Hampshire Auto Insurance Financial Responsibility Laws
Believe it or not, unlike most states, Portsmouth New Hampshire drivers are not required by law to be covered by liability insurance. However, because auto accidents can happen to even the most experienced drivers, it’s still a good idea to have liability insurance, and if you’re ever convicted of a major traffic violation, the court may require that you do so. The recommended liability insurance coverage is:
- $25,000 per person for 1 person per accident
- $50,000 bodily injury for 2 or more persons per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
One important note: if you are in an accident and found to be driving without Portsmouth New Hampshire mandatory liability insurance, your Portsmouth New Hampshire license could be suspended until a settlement is reached.
Portsmouth New Hampshire Drunk Driving, Cell Phone, and Text Messaging Laws
A major contributor to traffic fatalities comes from two legal activities: drinking and cell phone use. As a Portsmouth New Hampshire driver, it’s important for you to learn the Portsmouth New Hampshire drunk driving, cell phone, and text messaging laws.
Drinking. Like most states, Portsmouth New Hampshire has a Zero Tolerance Law for underage drinking, and if you are convicted of a Portsmouth New Hampshire DUI or Portsmouth New Hampshire DWI, you face penalties in addition to those listed below.
Your first conviction of a Portsmouth New Hampshire DWI may bring the following penalties:
- Jail sentence 10 days minimum
- License suspension 9 months to 2 years
- Driver Intervention Program
- Possible Alcohol and/or Drug Treatment Program
- $500 minimum fine
- Mandatory Portsmouth New Hampshire insurance for 3 years
With each new offense, the penalties grow more severe. Further Portsmouth New Hampshire DUI convictions will result in increased jail time, community service, fines, and Portsmouth New Hampshire license suspension or even Portsmouth New Hampshire license revocation.
Cell Phones. Currently, Portsmouth New Hampshire teen drivers may not use cell phones or text message while driving. The fine is $100.
Portsmouth New Hampshire Online Driver Education
More information about approved Portsmouth New Hampshire online driver education courses can be found on the Portsmouth New Hampshire DMV website.