New Hampshire Requirements
New Hampshire has a variety of penalties for drunk driving. This guide will go over the interlock process in New Hampshire.
The NH Ignition Interlock Program
In NH, the term for alcohol-based driving offenses is DWI, driving while intoxicated. The legal blood alcohol content limit (BAC) is .08 percent. Even first offenders risk having their license suspended for at least nine months. Some offenders may be able to get back on the road if they agree to install an ignition interlock device.
There are tiered penalties in New Hampshire, meaning the penalties increase depending on how many previous DWI offenses a driver has on their record. The penalties increase also if there are certain circumstances, like a BAC double the limit or a minor is in the car.
What Happens if I Get a DWI in New Hampshire?
First DWI Offense
- No jail time for first offenders
- Fines of $500 to $1,200
- License suspended for nine months to two years
- A judge can require probation for up to two years
- If put on probation, offenders must complete an alcohol and drug evaluation and complete the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
Second DWI Offense
- 17 days to one year in jail (minimum of 60 days if there is a prior DWI offense within two years)
- Fines of $750 to $2,000
- License suspended for three years
- A judge can require probation for up to two years
- If put on probation, offenders must complete an alcohol and drug evaluation and complete the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
Third DWI Offense
- 180 days to one year in jail
- Fines of $750 to $2,000
- License revoked for life
- A judge can require probation for up to two years
- If put on probation, offenders must complete an alcohol and drug evaluation and complete the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
What Happens if I Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DWI Test in New Hampshire?
A first refusal to submit to a chemical test still has consequences. Offenders risk having their license suspended for 180 days or more if this is the second refusal.
How Do I Regain Driving Privileges in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire’s Department of Motor Vehicles will alert offenders if they are required to install an ignition interlock device. These offenders may be eligible for a restricted license if they meet all criteria, including:
- Offender must install an IID from a state-approved provider in any vehicle registered to them or that they regularly drive
- Show certificate of installation at appropriate DMV location
- Add interlock restriction to their driver’s license
- Pay any necessary fees
- Provide proof of insurance
- Complete any other requirements issued by the court
There may be additional criteria to meet depending on the circumstances of the event.
Get a Free Quote! Call 877-274-3419
Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you in the next few minutes to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
Thank you, a State Specialist will contact you during business hours to guide you through the IID requirement and process.
The Process: What to Expect
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Consult with Legal Counsel
Seek guidance from a DUI lawyer to understand your legal options and rights following a DUI violation.
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Get an Assessment
Complete a court-ordered or voluntary assessment to evaluate your risk level and determine any required interventions.
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Obtain Proof of SR-22 Insurance, If Required
If applicable, provide proof of financial responsibility and insurance coverage with an SR-22 certificate.
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Schedule Interlock Install
Speak to our State Specialists to schedule your IID installation to meet court or state requirements.
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Regular Monitoring
Your ignition interlock usage will be regularly monitored to maintain compliance with legal requirements.
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Device Removal
After fulfilling your IID requirement and receiving approval from your monitoring authority, you can arrange to have your ignition interlock device removed at your local service center.
Interlock Cost in New Hampshire
Expert DWI Attorneys in New Hampshire
Bosen & Associates, PLLC
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Hansen Law Offices, PLLC
Portsmouth, NH 03801
New Hampshire Public Defenders
Stratham, NH 03885
Sisti Law Office
Portsmouth, NH 03801
New Hampshire FAQs
An ignition interlock device is a protective measure that stops potential drunk drivers in their tracks by requiring a breath test before vehicle operation.
Many convicted DUI offenders are ordered to install an ignition interlock device if they wish to regain driving privileges. New Hampshire requires the device to be installed by a state-approved interlock provider.
The costs of your interlock device will vary depending on your vehicle and chosen interlock provider. Intoxalock customers will pay $22.49 to $100 deposit, as well as a $7.49 to $29.99 setup fee at installation. The monthly lease will cost $22.49 to $89.99.
New Hampshire does not require DUI offenders to have their court order at the installation appointment, but you should have been given a court order if you are going to install. Intoxalock customers can make their appointment with one of our state specialists or contact their chosen service center to make one themselves.
You should bring your New Hampshire driver’s license or ID card, and the name of the registered owner.
Visit the New Hampshire locations page to review all locations in New Hampshire.
The state will send you a Certificate of Removal with an eligibility date. You can schedule your removal on or after the eligibility date.
You should bring your Certificate of Removal to your removal appointment.
Check the New Hampshire state page for all DUI penalties.
Yes, financial assistance is available to those declared indigent by the court.
Intoxalock works with many experienced DUI attorneys. We’ve created a list of local attorneys in your state who may be able to help.
To see how an ignition interlock device works, visit our ignition interlock page and watch our video demonstrating how to use the device.
To learn more about ignition interlock information, please visit our ignition interlock device page.
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