New Hampshire DMV Cuts Wait Times With New Appointment System

The New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) rolled out an appointment-based service system on Monday, Nov. 3, that it says reduces in-person wait times and boosts efficiency for customers and staff.

According to DMV Director John Marasco, the appointment system has cut average wait times to about eight minutes, with busy locations like Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and Keene reporting significant improvements in processing times.

“At first, people heard ‘appointments' and thought it would make things harder,” Marasco said in a statement shared by My Keene Now. “Actually, it's just the opposite. Customers can choose their location, date, and time, and most are in and out in eight minutes or less.”

Customers can schedule appointments online at dmv.nh.gov or by calling 603-227-4000. Same-day slots are often available at many of the DMV's 14 locations across the state.

According to My Keene Now, in 2024, the DMV processed more than 425,000 in-person transactions.

The DMV noted that urgent matters, such as temporary plates or expiring licenses, will still be accommodated even without an appointment.

Marasco said the new system not only saves residents time but also improves working conditions for DMV employees, who previously had to work late to handle long lines. “We work for you,” he said. “Our team comes to work every day with their A-game, and we want to be the best DMV in the country.”

In addition to the new system announcement, DMV officials confirmed the sunset of New Hampshire's vehicle inspection program. Safety and emissions testing requirements will end on Feb. 1, 2026.