Vehicle Registration

Car Registrations

NH DRIVER'S LICENSE OR NH ID IS REQUIRED.  IF YOU HAVE AN OUT OF STATE LICENSE, GO TO THE NH-DMV FIRST.  MAKE APPOINTMENT ONLINE AT: https://www.dmv.nh.gov/appointments-and-services

New Vehicle Registration – What You Need

• ID: NH Driver’s License or NH ID
• Vehicle Docs: Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, Title, or NH Title Application
• Proof of Residency (see below)
• Where: In-person only at Durham Town Clerk’s Office

Renewals – What You Need

• ID: NH Driver’s License or NH ID
• Docs: Renewal notice or previous NH registration
• How: In-person, by mail, or online (fees may apply)
• If new to Durham: Bring proof of residency
• Reminder: Sent 1 month before expiration; renew up to 4 months early

Residency Proof (New Residents)

• Renters: Signed lease or notarized landlord letter
• UNH Students: UNH housing letter or WebCat assignment
• Utility Bills: Recent bill with your name & Durham address
• New Homeowners: Real estate closing statement
• Living with Family: Signed letter from homeowner family member

Registration Fees

• Local: $18 per $1,000 of MSRP, decreases $3/year down to $3
• State: Based on vehicle weight; fees increasing in 2026
• Due: Annually, in birth month (prorated for first-time registrants)
• Electric Vehicles: Battery electric $100, Plug-in hybrid $50

Payment Methods

• Cash, Check
• Debit/credit card (2.99% fee, $2.50 minimum; fees go to vendor)

Boat Registrations

Renewals:

• Checks to Town of Durham
• Submit by mail, drop box, or in person with last year’s registration + ID
• Add $5 to total fee
• Bring old boat registration or renewal notice from State of NH-DMV

New Registrations:

• Completed Boat Registration Application
• Proof of ownership (signed docs from seller & buyer)
• Valid driver’s license
• Certified Hull Identification Number (HIN) via Certificate of Origin, old NH registration, or Vessel Verification Form
• Homemade boats or missing HIN must go to NH-DMV