This bill amends the existing law to allow the Department of Motor Vehicles in New Hampshire to issue driver's licenses to noncitizens lawfully present in the United States. The bill changes the language from "Aliens Temporarily" to "Noncitizens" and removes the requirement that noncitizens be residing in New Hampshire on a temporary basis. It introduces provisions for noncitizens who have been granted conditional or permanent residence or an Employment Authorization Document by the United States government to be eligible for a New Hampshire driver's license. Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which noncitizens temporarily residing in New Hampshire for education, employment, or as a spouse or child of an alien licensed under this section, may be issued a driver's license.

The bill specifies the documentation and testing that may be required by the director, including certification from the foreign government regarding the person's driving record, submission of a social security number or certification of ineligibility for one, and proof of compliance with the conditions set forth for obtaining a license. The term of the license is set to no longer than five years, with the possibility of a lesser term based on the expiration date of the United States government-issued documents and the person's continued residence in New Hampshire. The bill also states that the director may deny a license if it is deemed contrary to public safety and requires licensees to return their license if they no longer meet the conditions specified. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 263:39-a
As Amended by the Senate: 263:39-a
Version adopted by both bodies: 263:39-a