New Hampshire DMV Records: Accessing Your Driving History
The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) maintains driving records for all licensed drivers in the state. These records contain important information about your driving history, including traffic violations, accidents, and license status. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to access and understand your New Hampshire DMV records.
Obtaining Your New Hampshire Driving Record
There are several ways to request your driving record in New Hampshire:
- Online: You can request your driving record online through the New Hampshire DMV website. This is often the quickest and most convenient method.
- In Person: Visit a DMV office and complete the Release of Motor Vehicle Records form (DSMV 505). You’ll need to provide identification and pay the required fee.
- By Mail: Send a completed DSMV 505 form along with the appropriate fee to:
DOS DVM
FR Driving Records
23 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305 - Drop Box: Submit the DSMV 505 form and fee in an envelope at one of the DMV’s drop box locations.
Types of Records Available
- Non-Certified Copy: Suitable for personal use. Costs $15.
- Certified Copy: Required for official purposes. Costs $15.
Information Included in Your Driving Record
A New Hampshire driving record typically includes:
- Personal information (name, address, date of birth)
- Driver’s license number and status
- Traffic violations and convictions
- Accidents
- License suspensions or revocations
- Demerit points
Understanding the Point System
New Hampshire uses a point system to track driving infractions. Points are assigned for various violations and can lead to license suspension if accumulated:
- Drivers 21 and older: 12 points in one year
- Drivers under 21: 9 points in one year
- Drivers under 18: 6 points in one year
Importance of Checking Your Record
Regularly reviewing your driving record is crucial for:
- Ensuring accuracy
- Preparing for employment background checks
- Understanding your insurance rates
- Monitoring your license status
Official Resources
For more information and to access official forms, visit the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles website. Here you can find detailed instructions, fee information, and the latest updates on DMV services.By understanding how to access and interpret your New Hampshire DMV records, you can stay informed about your driving status and take proactive steps to maintain a clean driving history.
Impact of Demerit Points on Your Driver’s License in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) employs a demerit point system to monitor and penalize driving infractions. Accumulating too many points within a specific timeframe can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. This article will explain how the point system works and its impact on your driving privileges.
How the Point System Works
New Hampshire assigns points to various traffic violations based on their severity. Points are added to your driving record upon conviction of a traffic offense. Here’s a breakdown of the point system:
- One-Point Offenses: Minor infractions such as failing to signal or operating without a license.
- Two-Point Offenses: Slightly more serious violations like operating an unregistered vehicle or failing to produce a license upon request.
- Three-Point Offenses: Moderate violations including disobeying traffic control devices, following too closely, and failing to yield.
- Four-Point Offenses: Serious infractions such as improper passing and speeding more than 25 mph over the limit.
- Six-Point Offenses: Major violations including driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, and driving after license suspension.
Impact of Accumulating Points
The accumulation of points can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. The thresholds for suspension vary based on the driver’s age:
- Drivers Under 18:
- 6 points in one calendar year: Up to 3 months suspension
- 12 points in two consecutive years: Up to 6 months suspension
- 18 points in three consecutive years: Up to 1 year suspension
- Drivers Aged 18-20:
- 9 points in one calendar year: Up to 3 months suspension
- 15 points in two consecutive years: Up to 6 months suspension
- 21 points in three consecutive years: Up to 1 year suspension
- Drivers 21 and Older:
- 12 points in one calendar year: Up to 3 months suspension
- 18 points in two consecutive years: Up to 6 months suspension
- 24 points in three consecutive years: Up to 1 year suspension
How to Check Your Points
You can check the status of your driver’s license and the points on your record by requesting a driving record from the New Hampshire DMV. This can be done online, in person, or by mail. Visit the New Hampshire DMV website for more details.
Reducing Points on Your Record
New Hampshire offers a Defensive Driving Course through the New Hampshire Traffic Safety Institute that can help reduce points on your record. Completing this course can subtract up to three points from your total. However, the points will still appear on your driving record but will not count towards a suspension.
Conclusion
Understanding the demerit point system in New Hampshire is crucial for maintaining your driving privileges. Accumulating too many points can lead to significant penalties, including the suspension of your license. Regularly checking your driving record and taking steps to reduce points can help you avoid these consequences.For more information, visit the New Hampshire DMV website or contact your local DMV office.
