The New Driver License

As of May 30, 2008, the state of New Hampshire began using a new secure driver license and non-driver identification card to protect New Hampshire citizens from identity theft. All DMV customers -- first time driver license applicants, out-of-state driver license applicants, renewals, replacements and ID card applicants -- will be issued a temporary license or non-driver ID card while their permanent license or ID card is being processed and mailed.

The temporary driver license is very different in appearance from the previous license and ID card that the DMV issued in the past. The card is made of flexible polyester, tear-resistant security paper with a black and white digital image. All pertinent licensing data that was previously on the driver license is on the temporary. Driver licenses or ID cards issued to anyone under 21 years of age will have vertical orientation to make them readily identifiable.

Use of Temporary License for Identification Purposes

The temporary driver license is valid for driving purposes as a stand-alone document. If you intend to use your temporary license for identification purposes, we recommend that you also carry a secondary form of identification (passport, birth certificate, military ID, etc.). For NH renewals, the old license will be returned to the license holder to be used as backup identification. When traveling, we recommend that you carry your passport if you have one.

The black and white temporary is valid for 60 days from date of issue. See below for an example of what the new temporary driver license will look like.