Driver Improvement, Demerit Points, Suspensions, and Impaired Driving Programs
What this domain tests
This domain covers NH’s point system, suspension and revocation, and impaired-driving programs, including how administrative and criminal consequences differ.
Core rules
- NH assesses demerit points for moving violations. An adult accumulating 12 points in 12 months faces suspension; a youth operator faces a lower threshold of 6 points in 12 months.
- Points vary by speed: 1–10 mph over = 3 points; 11–15 = 4; 16–20 = 5; 21+ = 6. Reckless driving and DUI carry high points.
- Suspension may be imposed for points, DUI, implied-consent refusal, or other administrative actions. Reinstatement may require a driver improvement program, fees, and compliance.
- DUI: .08 per se for adults; .02 for drivers under 21; aggravated DUI at .16 or with certain aggravating factors. Refusing a chemical test triggers implied-consent revocation even without a DUI conviction.
- A first DUI typically brings revocation of at least 9 months, a fine, jail exposure, and the Impaired Driver Education Program (IDEP); repeat offenses bring longer revocation and the multiple-offender program.
- Driver improvement: a point-driven suspension may require completion of an approved course before reinstatement.
Worked example
A 17-year-old receives two speeding convictions: 15 mph over (4 points) and 20 mph over (5 points). That is 9 points in 12 months. Because the youth threshold is 6, the YOL is subject to suspension even though an adult would not reach 12. A DUI would separately trigger revocation and IDEP, and an implied-consent refusal would add administrative revocation.
Traps that cost marks
Assuming points disappear when the fine is paid; using the adult 12-point threshold for a youth; treating a test refusal as “no evidence”; forgetting that DUI revocation is separate from criminal penalties; and assuming IDEP is optional.