Alcohol, Drugs & the Youth License
Driving while intoxicated is a crime in New Hampshire, and the state's youth licensing path is distinctive. Knowing these limits protects your license and everyone on the road.
Adult BAC limit
A driver 21 or older is legally impaired at a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent. You can still be charged at a lower level if alcohol or drugs affect your driving.
Zero tolerance for under 21
Drivers under 21 face a lower limit of 0.02 percent BAC. Any measurable alcohol can lead to a charge and loss of driving privileges for a young driver.
Youth operator licensing
New Hampshire does not issue a stand-alone learner's permit. A person at least 15 years and 6 months old may practice only when accompanied by a licensed driver 25 or older, and a youth operator license is issued at 16 after driver education. Young drivers face nighttime and passenger restrictions as they gain experience.