Maine and New Hampshire have a graduated driver's licensing system for new drivers under 18 and restrictions for drivers under 21. The law is intended to allow young people to gain valuable driving experience under lower-risk conditions.
LEARNER'S PERMIT
Maine: To receive their permit, students must be 15 and complete a written exam. Applicants must submit the application, fee, two forms of identification, proof of residency, driver education completion certificate, and a birth certificate to the BMV. A vision test is also required. The permit allows the teen to operate a vehicle when accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 20 years of age and has held a valid license for two years. The learner's permit expires after two years. Permits are not renewable, but additional two-year permits can be issued.
New Hampshire: No learner's permit is required. At 15 1/2, students may legally practice driving only in the state of NH if accompanied by a licensed driver in the front passenger seat who is at least 25. The student must have a copy of their birth certificate or passport.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR TEENS
- Be 16 years of age.
- Complete an approved driver education class.
- New Hampshire: Log 40 hours of driving experience (10 must be at night)
Maine: Log 70 hours of driving experience (10 must be at night) - Receive no moving traffic violations resulting in a conviction for the six months before the date of application for this license, including seat belt violations and juvenile alcohol.
- Pass a driving skills test.
- Pass a computer-based knowledge test.
- Pay the required fees.
- In Maine, you also must hold the permit for six months.
MAINE LICENSE RESTRICTIONS FOR TEENS
- From 12 AM to 5 AM, students are not allowed to drive for any reason.
- Until age 18, students are not allowed to drive with passengers who are not immediate family members for the first 9 months,unless accompanied by a licensed, responsible adult who is at least 20years old and has held a valid license for 2 years.
- Teens cannot operate a vehicle while using a mobile device.
NEW HAMPSHIRE LICENSE RESTRICTIONS FOR TEENS
- From 1 AM to 4 AM, students are not allowed to drive for any reason.
- For the first six months, students may drive with one unrelated passenger under 25 unless accompanied by a licensed, responsible adult who is at least 25 years of age.
