New Hampshire (NH) - State Requirements for Ignition Interlock Devices
The New Hampshire Ignition Interlock Program
New Hampshire refers to alcohol-based driving offenses as DWI, Driving While Intoxicated. The legal blood alcohol content limit (BAC) is .08%. That state has several penalties for drunk driving; even drivers facing their first DUI charge risk having their license suspended for at least nine months. Installing an ignition interlock device may help some drivers get back on the road sooner.
New Hampshire uses tiered penalties. These penalties increase depending on the number of DWI offenses a driver has on their record. The penalties also increase under certain circumstances, like a BAC double the limit or if a minor is in the car.
What Happens if You Get a DWI in New Hampshire?
DWI offenses in New Hampshire carry varied consequences. Penalties increase for aggravated DWI which occurs if a driver is arrested for speeding more than 30 miles over the limit, causing serious injuries, eluding law enforcement, having a minor in the car, or having a BAC > .16.
First DWI Offense
- No jail time
- Fines of $500 to $1,200
- License suspended for nine months up to two years
- Probation for up to two years
- Completion of an alcohol and drug evaluation and the Impaired Driver Care
- Management Program (IDCMP)
- An SR-22 certificate is required for three years after conviction
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 - $2,000
- License suspended for three years
- Probation for up to two years
- Completion of an alcohol and drug evaluation and the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
- An SR-22 certificate is required for three years after conviction
- Mandatory installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
Third DWI Offense
- 180 days to one year in jail
- Fines of $750 to $2,000
- License revoked for five years
- Probation for up to two years
- Completion of an alcohol and drug evaluation and the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)
- An SR-22 proof-of-insurance certificate is required for three years after conviction
- Mandatory installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
What Happens if You Fail to Complete or Refuse to Submit to a DWI Test in New Hampshire?
The first time you refuse to submit to a chemical test, your license will be suspended for 180 days. If you have had a prior offense and you refuse a chemical test during the second DUI stop, your license will be revoked for two years.
How Do You Regain Driving Privileges in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire's Department of Motor Vehicles will alert you if you are required to install an Ignition Interlock Device. You may be eligible for a restricted license if you meet this criteria:
- Install a required IID from a state-approved provider in any vehicle registered to you or that you regularly drive
- Show certificate of installation at appropriate DMV location
- Add interlock restriction to your driver's license
- Pay any necessary fees
- Provide an SR-22 proof-of-insurance certificate
- Complete any other requirements issued by the court
- Complete the Impaired Driver Care Management Program (IDCMP)