New Hampshire 16- and 17-year-olds could seek licenses through state training

The state could issue a license to a New Hampshire resident age 16 or 17 who presents a certificate showing successful completion of the training program. This route covers New Hampshire residents ages 16 and 17. Applicants would need a signed, sworn record of 40 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise. A licensed parent or guardian must supervise the driving. If neither is licensed, a licensed adult over age 25 may supervise. Applicants would also need approved lessons, vision and knowledge exams, and a training course under the state program. The proposal sets aside no money for the program, and courses could roll out gradually. The bill proposed a January 1, 2026, start date for this route.

The state would create and run driver training courses. Courses would be open to New Hampshire residents with valid licenses or those who completed the required driving practice, lessons, and exams. The state could admit licensed residents of other states only after providing enough courses for New Hampshire residents. The proposal sets aside no money for the program. The state could roll out courses in stages over a reasonable period.

An organization running a state training course could charge tuition if needed. This applies to organizations running courses under the state program. A fee could cover only the organization's costs. The state director would set the maximum fee for a private provider, which could not exceed $350 per student.