New Hampshire CDL Study Guide
New Hampshire issues Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs) through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) under the Department of Safety. You will study the New Hampshire CDL Manual, pass the written tests for a Commercial Learner Permit (CLP), hold the permit for at least 14 days, finish Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), then pass the road skills test.
Key New Hampshire numbers
- Minimum age (intrastate): 18
- Minimum age (interstate or hazmat): 21
- CLP hold before skills test: at least 14 days
- General Knowledge passing score: 80%
- General Knowledge test: ~50 questions
- Air Brakes test: ~25 questions (required if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Combination Vehicles test: ~20 questions (required for Class A)
Topics on the New Hampshire General Knowledge test
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip)
- Driving safely (speed management, space management, hazard perception)
- Transporting cargo safely
- Air brakes (if your vehicle is air-braked)
- Combination vehicles (Class A)
If you fail a test
If you fail a New Hampshire CDL knowledge test you must wait five calendar days before retesting. Each retake is taken at a NH DMV office and the exams are randomized so you will not see the same questions twice.
Frequently asked questions
Where does New Hampshire issue CDLs?
The New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles, under the Department of Safety, issues CDLs at DMV offices statewide.
How much does a New Hampshire CDL cost?
The Commercial Learner Permit is $20. The CDL license itself is $60 for any class. Each endorsement adds $10.
How long must I hold the NH CLP?
You must hold the CLP at least 14 days before taking the skills test. The CLP is valid for 180 days and can be renewed once.
How many questions are on the NH General Knowledge test?
50 questions. You need to answer at least 40 correctly (80%) to pass, the same threshold for every CDL knowledge test in New Hampshire.
When can I retake a failed CDL knowledge test in NH?
New Hampshire requires you to wait five calendar days before retesting after a failed CDL knowledge exam.
Is ELDT required in New Hampshire?
Yes. ELDT must be completed with an FMCSA-registered provider before the DMV will schedule your CDL road test.
Free practice
Start a New Hampshire General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: NH DMV Commercial Driver Licenses page NH CDL Manual (PDF, Sept 9 2022) NH DMV Licensing Fees NH DMV Commercial Driver Learner Permit page