Using a mobile phone while driving in New Hampshire (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Using a hand-held mobile device while driving is banned, including for calls and messages; drivers aged 18 or over may use hands-free devices. The fine is USD 100 plus penalty assessment for a first offence. Drivers under 18 may not use a mobile device at all, hands-free or not, except to report an emergency.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed [1] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | $100.00 per offence [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Using a hand-held device to read, compose, view or post any electronic message is banned while driving, including when halted in traffic. Bluetooth or other hands-free devices are allowed. [1] |
| Learner and newly qualified driversUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Drivers under 18 may not use a mobile phone or other mobile electronic device at all, hands-free or not, except to report an emergency. Listening to hands-free GPS directions or viewing a mounted or integrated navigation screen is allowed. [1] |
Notes
- The ban applies while driving or temporarily halted in traffic. Holding a phone near the ear is presumed to be a call. Drivers under 18 may not use a mobile device at all, hands-free or not (paragraph IV). The text was read from an Internet Archive snapshot of 17 June 2024.
- A Bluetooth or other hands-free device, or one integrated into the vehicle, may be used if the driver does not have to divert attention from the road ahead.
- USD 250 for a second offence and USD 500 for any subsequent offence within 24 months, each plus penalty assessment.
- RSA 265:79-c describes a violation and states no penalty points.
Sources
- New Hampshire General Court: RSA 265:79-c Use of Mobile Electronic Devices While Driving; Prohibition (Internet Archive snapshot of 17 June 2024) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
New Hampshire and neighbouring states
| State | Holding a phone while driving banned | Hands-free use | Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies) | Penalty points on the licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | Banned | Hands-free allowed (18+) | USD 100 plus assessment | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Massachusetts | Banned | Hands-free allowed | USD 100 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Maine | Banned | Allowed, drivers 18+ with full licence | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Vermont | Banned | Allowed | USD 100 to 200 | 2 points |
More rules in New Hampshire
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Violation: $100 fine up to 3/4 oz
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph (45 mph on unimproved rural highway)
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (youth operator licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15½ (learning to drive, accompanied)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Class 1, 2, 3 (bicycle) · Minimum age: 16+ for Class 3
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (permissible fireworks, licensed sellers) · Minimum age to buy: 21 (18+ if on active duty)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Knives not named in the carry offence · Locking or one-handed knives: Not named in the carry offence
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $7.25 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Under 18 only · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Under 18 only
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: 0.02% (under 21)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.