How long will my license be suspended?

For a first offense in New Hampshire, the administrative suspension is 6 months (failed test); 180 days (refusal). A refusal carries a longer suspension: 180-day license suspension [§ 265-A:4]. Criminal license consequences may be additional.

Can I get a restricted or hardship license?

New Hampshire does not offer a traditional restricted license during the administrative suspension. No restricted/hardship license for first offenders during administrative suspension; IID required for reinstatement

What happens if I drive on a suspended license?

Driving on a DWI-related suspension is a serious offense in New Hampshire. It can result in additional criminal charges, extended suspension, and in some states it can elevate a misdemeanor DWI to a felony.

Is the administrative suspension separate from the criminal suspension?

Yes. The administrative suspension is imposed by the motor vehicle agency based on the arrest and test result. The criminal suspension is imposed by the court as part of sentencing. They run somewhat independently, though they may overlap.

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

New Hampshire DUI & License Suspension — What Happens

Administrative license issues and why timing matters.

License consequences are often the most immediately disruptive part of a DWI case in New Hampshire. The administrative suspension is a separate proceeding from the criminal case and can result in loss of driving privileges even if the criminal charges are eventually reduced or dismissed.

How the administrative suspension works

Arrest triggers the process

When you are arrested for DWI and either fail or refuse a chemical test, the arresting officer initiates the administrative suspension process §265-A:4.

Notice is served

You receive notice of the intended suspension. The clock for requesting a hearing starts now.

Request a hearing

You have 30 days after notice of suspension to request hearing to request an administrative hearing. If you do not request a hearing within this window, the suspension takes effect automatically.

Hearing (if requested)

At the hearing, the issues are narrow: was the stop lawful, was there probable cause for the arrest, did the officer follow proper Implied consent procedures, and did the test result show a BAC at or above the legal limit?

Suspension periods

First-offense (failed test): 6 months (failed test); 180 days (refusal)
First-offense (refusal): 180-day license suspension

Restricted driving privileges

New Hampshire does not offer a restricted or hardship license during the administrative suspension period. No restricted/hardship license for first offenders during administrative suspension; IID required for reinstatement

How the administrative and criminal tracks interact

The administrative suspension and the criminal case are legally independent. Winning the administrative hearing does not dismiss the criminal case. Losing the administrative hearing does not prove guilt in the criminal case. However, the facts overlap significantly, and the administrative hearing can sometimes reveal evidence or testimony that is useful in the criminal defense.

Ignition interlock and license reinstatement §265-A:36; §265-A:18

not mandatory for a simple first offense — the court may, in its discretion, require an interlock during the period of sentence reduction (RSA 265-A:18, I(a)(6)(A)). The minimum IID period is aggravated or subsequent DWI: not less than 12 months nor more than 2 years after the period of revocation or suspension; under 21: until age 21 or at least 12 months, whichever is longer. Where an interlock is required, a certificate proving installation is a condition precedent to reinstatement.. Reinstatement requires proof of IID installation, completion of any required substance abuse programs, payment of reinstatement fees, and proof of insurance (SR-22 in many states).

✓The administrative hearing is worth requesting even if the outcome seems unlikely to change. It preserves your rights, creates a record, and may reveal information about the state's evidence.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (DUI)

Dates matter. If you have paperwork, bring it.

Citation or arrest

paperwork

Court dates

or hearing notices

Your timeline of events

(brief)

General preparation tips only. Deadlines vary by facts and jurisdiction.

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