Taking the DMV written knowledge test in New Hampshire does not have to be intimidating. This study guide, and the practice test will help make the process easy.
Though the state of New Hampshire does not issue learners permits for teen drivers, all new drivers are required to pass a written knowledge test to receive a drivers license. The best way to prepare yourself is by reading the New Hampshire official Driver's Manual. This handbook contains all of the information you need to pass the knowledge test and become a responsible driver.
How is the Test Structured?
The test is computerized, and you will use a touch screen in order to answer questions. There are 40 general multiple choice questions, including around 10 questions about road signs. Each question has four answer choices from which to pick. In order to pass, you must provide correct answers for at least 32 questions, for a score of 80%. The test is randomized, meaning that you will have to be prepared for any sort of question to appear at any time. There is a 1 hour time limit and the computer will time out after 60 minutes. Applicants who do not pass or go over the time limit must wait 10 days before taking the test again.
What Should I Study?
While it's important to read the entire driver's handbook, there are some areas that you should concentrate on as you prepare for your examination. This includes the following subjects:
- New drivers should understand the regulations for obtaining and keeping an operator license described on pages 7-11.
- Part Five - Rules of the Road contains details of New Hampshire driving laws. Pay special attention to the road signs, signals and markings on pages 27-30. You should be identify the meaning of road signs by their shape and color. There are also examples of road signs and signals to study on the last 4 pages of the manual.
- Parts Six through Ten outline how to safely execute specific basic driving skills, including turning, passing, stopping, parking and choosing the best speed to drive, that you will need to know for the test.
- Not all driving takes place on a dry sunny day with no other traffic. A variety of driving situations are discussed in Parts Eleven through Thirteen, including how to approach express way driving and how to handle various emergency situations.
- Expect several questions on Alcohol, Drugs and Driving from Part Fourteen.
- Take time to study Part Eighteen, which gives strategies on how to share the road with large trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians.
Also note that at the end of each section of the manual are questions that can help you quiz your understanding of the information in that section
Once you have thoroughly studied the New Hampshire Driver’s Manual, you can test your knowledge with the New Hampshire online permit practice test. This will help you familiarize yourself with the content of the test questions and how they are structured.
Taking the Written Test
When you go to the DMV to take the knowledge test, there are some strategies that will help you during the test:
- While taking the test read each question carefully. Then read all of the answer choices, instead of just picking the first one that seems correct. It is a good idea to take all the questions literally. Don’t try to read too much into a question.
- After reading a question you can try to answer the question in your own words before looking at the alternatives provided. This will help you pick the correct answer choice, rather than be led astray by distracting answer choices.
- If you are stumped by a particular question you can get clues from the answer choices. For example, be on the lookout for definitive statements in the answer choices, such as, “Blind spots are eliminated by using your mirrors.” A better answer might be, “You can help overcome blind spots by actively using your mirrors.”
If you pass the test, then you will be granted your Youth Operator License, provided that you have also passed your road test and your vision test.
