New Hampshire CDL Practice Test 2026: CLP, Fees, ELDT & Road Test

New Hampshire CDL applicants face federal knowledge and skills standards plus state-specific application, fee, and scheduling rules. The fastest path is to decide exactly which vehicle you intend to operate, pass only the tests that match that vehicle, complete required training early, and practice in equipment that will not add unwanted restrictions to the final license.

Last verified: September 7, 2026. Use the current DMV application and fee schedule when paying because forms can be revised.

New Hampshire CDL Quick Facts

New Hampshire-Specific CDL Policies

• The commercial credential has a five-year cycle. A New Hampshire CDL normally expires on the driver’s birthday in the fifth year; medical qualification and HazMat approval can expire on separate schedules.
• Road-test equipment is the applicant’s responsibility. DMV does not provide a truck. Bring a properly registered, inspected, insured, safe representative vehicle plus a sponsor licensed for its class and endorsements.
• ELDT must be complete before scheduling covered tests. First-time Class A/B, Class B-to-A upgrades, and first-time Passenger or School Bus applicants must have the federal training record before the road test is booked.
• HazMat renewal includes a fresh knowledge test. Begin the TSA threat-assessment renewal well in advance; the state manual recommends allowing substantial processing time rather than waiting for the endorsement expiration date.
• Vision is part of the state transaction. The manual states a 20/40 binocular standard, subject to DMV review and any required corrective-lens restriction.
• The application separates base credential and endorsement costs. The current DSMV 312 schedule lists the $20 CLP, $60 CDL, most endorsements at $10, and HazMat at $30; verify the latest form before payment.

Choose Your New Hampshire Practice Modules

New Hampshire CDL Application Steps

1. Identify the correct license class. Class A covers qualifying combinations, Class B heavy single vehicles, and Class C certain passenger or HazMat vehicles that do not meet A/B weight definitions.
2. Prepare the CDL application and identity documents. Bring the current DSMV 312 application, valid New Hampshire license, proof documents required for the transaction, and payment.
3. Complete medical qualification. Most non-excepted CDL applicants need a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate completed through a National Registry examiner.
4. Pass vision and required knowledge tests. The New Hampshire manual states applicants must meet 20/40 binocular vision or receive appropriate follow-up evaluation. Pass General Knowledge and any class/endorsement tests.
5. Receive the CLP and hold it at least 14 days. Practice only with a properly licensed CDL holder and only in a vehicle permitted by the CLP class, endorsements, and restrictions.
6. Complete ELDT when required. First-time Class A/B, B-to-A upgrades, and first-time P, S, or H applicants must use a registered provider and have completion recorded.
7. Schedule the road test and arrange equipment. New Hampshire does not provide the commercial vehicle. Bring a valid CLP, current driver license, qualified sponsor driver, and a properly registered and inspected representative vehicle.
8. Pass inspection, controls, and road driving. Each segment must be passed in sequence. The vehicle’s transmission, brakes, and configuration affect final license restrictions.

What to Bring to the New Hampshire Road Test

• Appointment confirmation or slip.
• Valid, current New Hampshire driver license and CDL learner permit.
• A sponsor driver licensed for the class and type of commercial vehicle.
• A properly registered, inspected, insured, and safe representative vehicle.
• Medical documentation or waiver information applicable to your operating category.
• Corrective lenses if needed to satisfy the vision standard.

Do a document-and-vehicle check the day before the appointment. A successful pre-trip practice session is useless if the test is canceled because the registration expired, a lamp is out, or the sponsor lacks the correct CDL class.

New Hampshire CDL Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long on HazMat renewal. The state manual recommends beginning the TSA threat-assessment process well ahead of renewal; HazMat drivers also retake the knowledge exam.
• Bringing the wrong vehicle. An automatic transmission or incomplete air-brake system can place a restriction on the CDL.
• Confusing the CLP with ordinary driving authority. A CLP permits supervised practice only and carries class/endorsement restrictions.
• Ignoring New England terrain and weather. Study downgrade speed, curves, limited sight distance, snow/ice traction, and safe following distance.
• Studying endorsements that do not match the job. First master General Knowledge and the vehicle class, then add only required endorsements.

Official Sources

• New Hampshire DMV: Commercial Driver License Manual
• New Hampshire DMV: Commercial Driver License Application and Fee Schedule
• FMCSA: Entry-Level Driver Training

FAQ

How much is a New Hampshire commercial learner permit?

The current state CDL application lists the CLP fee as $20.

How long is a New Hampshire CDL valid?

Five years, expiring on the driver’s birthday.

Does New Hampshire provide a truck for the skills test?

No. The applicant must arrange a properly registered, inspected representative commercial vehicle and an appropriately licensed sponsor driver.