This bill amends the current laws regarding the issuance and renewal of drivers' licenses for nonresident aliens in New Hampshire. It introduces a new requirement that the Department of Safety shall not renew a driver's license for any individual who is not a U.S. citizen unless they can prove they are a lawful permanent resident. Additionally, the bill specifies that the director may issue a driver's license to nonresident aliens temporarily residing in New Hampshire for specific purposes, such as attending educational institutions or engaging in lawful employment. The director is mandated to require proof of vehicle operation in the individual's home country, completion of an approved driver education course, or passing written and other tests. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that licenses issued to nonresident aliens will not be considered valid identification for voter registration or related purposes.

Moreover, the bill establishes that individuals granted asylee status by the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service will not be eligible for a driver's license until their application for adjustment to lawful permanent resident status is approved. It also mandates that nonresident alien drivers' licenses include specific personal information and a marking indicating the holder's nonresident alien status. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after passage and is expected to incur a one-time cost of $25,000 in FY 2026 for the design of new identification cards and necessary system changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 263:10, 263:39-a, 263:40