Driver Licensing > Apply for a License > Youth Operator

Any person over 16 years old and under 21 years old age who meets the requirements for a New Hampshire driver license, will be issued a Youth Operator License. Unlike the standard New Hampshire driver license, Youth Operator Licenses are oriented vertically rather than horizontally and have the following statement on the face of the license: "Under 21 until (date)". A Youth Operator License will expire on the license holder's 21st birthday, at which time the holder may obtain a horizontally- oriented license by applying for a renewal of your driver license.

In addition to any other restrictions, the holder of a Youth Operator License who is under 18 years of age:

1. Shall not operate a motor vehicle between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
2. Shall not operate a motor vehicle with more than one passenger less than 25 years of age who is not a member of the driver's family unless accompanies by a licensed, responsible adult who is at least 25 years of age during the first six (6) months holding the license.
3. Shall not operate a motor vehicle with more passengers than seat belts or safety restraints in the vehicle.

Youth Operator Motor Vehicle Violations

If you are under 21 years old and are convicted of a motor vehicle violation, your license will be suspended for the following minimum time periods:

• 20 days for the first offense.
• 45 days for the second offense.
• 90 days for a third or subsequent offense.

If you get two or more speeding tickets as a youth operator driver in the first two years of having the license, you be required to obtain an SR-22 Insurance policy for three years from the date of your second hearing.

The holder of a youth operator license can have his or her license suspended due to demerit points accumulation.

Additional Information for Youth Operators

Before applying for a driver license, applicants under 18 should review the Special Requirements for Minors.

Information about permits and Learning to Drive can be found in Driver Education.