reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:22 - Permit Fees.

266:22 Permit Fees. –
Before any special permit authorized by RSA 266:24 is issued, the commissioner of transportation shall collect fees as follows:
I. Each permit for either over-length, over-width or over-height or any combination thereof, $6;
II. Each permit for vehicle and load over-weight, fee based on the following schedule: vehicle and load over registered weight but not exceeding 50,000 pounds, $5.50; 50,001 pounds to 60,000 pounds, $6.50; 60,001 pounds to 70,000 pounds, $7.50; 70,001 pounds to 80,000 pounds, $8.50; 80,001 pounds to 90,000 pounds, $9.50; 90,001 pounds to 100,000 pounds, $10.50; and for each additional 10,000 pounds $2 shall be added to the above rate;
III. Provided a special permit may be issued to a person to cover all types of moves made within a radius of 100 miles from the person's home location for a fee of $60 for each unit. Permits issued under the provisions of this paragraph may be issued for such time as the commissioner of transportation may determine;
IV. Provided further that a special annual permit may be issued to a person to cover all types of moves for a fee of $115 for each unit. Each permit issued under the provisions of this paragraph shall be issued for one year;
V. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any special permit authorized by RSA 266:24 issued for farm equipment.
VI. There is hereby established an over-length, over-width, over-height, and over-weight revolving fund from revenue received under this section. All revenue received by the department of transportation for permit fees shall be credited to the fund and are hereby appropriated to the department of transportation. Funds shall be nonlapsing and continually appropriated for the operation and administration of the permit section at the department.
Source.
1949, 285:1. RSA 263:64. 1971, 345:1. 1972, 55:2. 1979, 220:1. 1981, 146:1. 2006, 231:1, eff. July 1, 2006. 2023, 79:99, eff. July 1, 2023.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:23 - Modification of Weight Limits.

266:23 Modification of Weight Limits. –
The commissioner of transportation is hereby empowered to modify the vehicle weight limits hereinbefore provided insofar as may be necessary to insure that the state shall receive maximum federal highway aid.
Source.
RSA 263:65-b. 1957, 38:2. 1973, 468:3. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:24 - Special Permits.

266:24 Special Permits. –
I. Any person wishing to move objects having a weight, width, height, or length greater than prescribed by this chapter, or wishing to move vehicle and load of which the weight, width, height, or length cannot be so distributed that it will meet the requirements of this chapter, may apply to the commissioner of transportation for a permit to move said object or said vehicle and load upon a way. The commissioner of transportation, with the approval of the director, may grant a permit for the moving of said object or vehicle and load upon a specified way and at a specified time if, in his opinion, it will not be detrimental to the preservation of the said way and the public use thereof. Provided, that the applicant, if required by said commissioner and director, shall file a bond to cover any possible damage to the ways or to the bridges over which the object or vehicle and load to be moved may pass and shall fulfill such rules as may be prescribed by said commissioner of transportation and director; and further provided that the commissioner of transportation or the director of the division may require a hearing before granting said permit. This section shall not be construed to limit the powers of the commissioner of transportation, selectmen of towns and city council of cities to make rules for the protection and to prevent the abuse of ways and bridges as provided by RSA 236:1, RSA 47:17 and RSA 41:11. Any person who violates the conditions of any permit issued pursuant to this section shall be guilty of a violation.
II. Implements of husbandry shall be exempt from the provisions of paragraph I.
III. The commissioner of transportation shall not grant a permit for the transport of manufactured housing or modular buildings that exceeds the limits established in RSA 266:10, II or RSA 266:11, IV.
Source.
1949, 104:2, par. 37-b. RSA 263:63. 1981, 146:1. 1987, 404:4. 1989, 305:17. 2004, 182:3, eff. July 31, 2004.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:24-a - Truck Axle Length; Waiver.

266:24-a Truck Axle Length;  Waiver. –
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subdivision, the commissioner of safety shall have authority to waive the maximum lengths between axles of trucks provided for under this subdivision when the commissioner finds that such waiver will not adversely affect the safety of the users of the state's interstate, defense, non-interstate, and general highway system.
Source.
1987, 404:27, eff. July 25, 1987.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:24-b - Regional Truck Permit Agreement Authorized.

266:24-b Regional Truck Permit Agreement Authorized. –
I. The commissioner of transportation is hereby authorized to execute all documents and perform all other acts necessary to enter into and carry out the provisions of a multi-jurisdictional regional truck permit compact, to be known as the New England truck permit agreement, for oversize non-divisible interstate loads.
II. The purposes of said agreement are to:
(a) Promote and encourage the fullest and most efficient use of the highway system by making uniform among member jurisdictions the administration of overdimensional and overweight permits for non-divisible loads with respect to motor vehicles in interstate operation;
(b) Enable participating jurisdictions to act cooperatively in the issuance of overdimensional and overweight permits and in the collection of appropriate fees; and
(c) Establish and maintain the concept of one administering jurisdiction for each permittee based on the rules established under the agreement.
III. The commissioner of transportation may adopt, pursuant to RSA 541-A, such rules as are necessary to enforce the terms of this agreement, which shall have the effect of law, and which shall provide for each of the member states to collect permit fees and perform audits on behalf of the other member states.
Source.
1988, 245:12, eff. June 29, 1988.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:24-c - Manufactured Housing and Modular Buildings; State Liability Limited.

266:24-c Manufactured Housing and Modular Buildings;  State Liability Limited. –
The state shall not be liable for damage caused by negligent conduct of the person transporting manufactured housing or modular buildings as authorized under this chapter.
Source.
2004, 182:5, eff. July 31, 2004.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:25 - Penalty for Overload.

266:25 Penalty for Overload. –
I. Except as provided in paragraph II, any person who shall drive or cause to be driven on the ways of this state a vehicle whose weight is in excess of that prescribed in this subdivision shall be guilty of a violation, and notwithstanding the provisions of RSA 625:9, V, shall be fined $100 plus penalty assessment for a first offense and $250 plus penalty assessment for a subsequent offense within a 12-month period.
II. Any person who shall drive or cause to be driven on the ways of this state a vehicle whose weight is in excess of that prescribed in RSA 266:18-a, or RSA 266:18-b shall be fined $100 or $.02 for each pound in excess of the prescribed weight, whichever is the greater, for a first offense; $250 or $.02 per pound in excess of the prescribed weight, whichever is greater, for a second offense; for a third and subsequent offense of the same vehicle in violation of this section, $250 or $.02 per pound in excess of the prescribed weight, whichever is greater, up to an excess of 15,000 pounds; when the excess is more than 15,000 pounds and less than 30,000 pounds, $.03 per pound; and when the excess is more than 30,000 pounds, $.04 per pound. The fines in this paragraph shall be plus penalty assessment.
III. Any person who shall drive or cause to be driven on any interstate and defense highway of this state a vehicle whose weight is in excess of that prescribed in RSA 266:18 shall be subject to the fine in paragraph I.
IV. Any person who shall drive or cause to be driven on a bridge of this state a vehicle whose weight is in excess of the posted or annually published caution crossing limit for that particular bridge shall be fined $200 plus penalty assessment.
V. Any person who shall drive or cause to be driven on a bridge of this state a vehicle whose weight exceeds the limit of an excluded bridge (or bridge posted for no trucks) may be fined $400 plus penalty assessment.
VI. All fines and certification fees collected pursuant to this section, RSA 260:42, RSA 260:52, RSA 260:55, RSA 265:118, RSA 266:16, RSA 266:26, RSA 266:59-c, and RSA 266:63 through 266:72-a shall accrue to the highway fund.
Source.
1921, 119:25. PL 103:28. 1939, 102:1. RL 119:40. 1949, 85:2. RSA 263:69. 1973, 529:52. 1978, 16:2. 1979, 358:5, III. 1981, 146:1. 1986, 121:4. 1998, 207:4, eff. June 18, 1998. 2015, 202:11, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:26 - Penalty for Exceeding Registered Weight.

266:26 Penalty for Exceeding Registered Weight. –
Any person who shall drive on the ways of this state a vehicle whose weight, including load, shall exceed by more than 20 percent the total weight under which it was registered shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1921, 119:25. PL 102:7. RL 118:8. RSA 262:10. 1973, 529:46. 1978, 16:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:27 - Brakes Required.

266:27 Brakes Required. –
Every motor vehicle driven upon the ways of this state shall be provided with adequate brakes in good working order and sufficient to control such vehicle at all times.
Source.
1905, 86:7. 1911, 133:7. 1913, 81:3. 1917, 229:6. 1921, 119:6. PL 103:4. RL 119:4. RSA 263:5. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:27-a - Parking Brakes Required.

266:27-a Parking Brakes Required. –
Every motor vehicle and combination of vehicles except motorcycles, farm tractors and mopeds, shall have a parking brake system adequate to hold the vehicle or combination of vehicles on any grade on which it is driven under all conditions of loading on a surface free from snow, ice or loose material, and which shall comply with performance standards issued by the director by rule adopted pursuant to RSA 260:5.
Source.
1981, 479:52, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:27-b - Notification of Brake Shift Interlock and Key Position by Automobile Dealers.

266:27-b Notification of Brake Shift Interlock and Key Position by Automobile Dealers. –
I. All motor vehicle dealers shall post the following notice in a prominent location at their place of business:
Important Safety Factors Regarding Automatic Transmissions and Key Positions
1. Most newer model motor vehicles with automatic transmissions are engineered with a "brake shift interlock" system as a safety mechanism, which prevents movement from the "park" position unless the service brake is applied.
2. Some vehicles are engineered whereby the vehicle may be shifted from "park" to "neutral" in a "key" position before the engine has been started without applying the service brake, which may cause the vehicle to roll. Your vehicle may not contain roll prevention safety in all key positions.
3. Consumers should become familiar with the specific characteristics of their vehicles in all "key" positions.
4. It is strongly recommended that the "parking" brake be engaged when the vehicle is parked on a grade.
II. Nothing in this section imposes any liability on a motor vehicle dealer or creates a cause of action by a consumer against a dealer.
Source.
2006, 201:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2007.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:28 - Brake Performance.

266:28 Brake Performance. –
Every motor vehicle and every combination of motor vehicle with trailer or semi-trailer when driven upon the ways of the state shall at a speed of 20 miles per hour be capable, at all times and under all conditions of loading, of stopping on a dry, smooth, approximately level pavement free from loose material, upon application of the foot or service brake, within a distance of 30 feet.
Source.
1949, 81:1. RSA 263:6. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:29 - Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

266:29 Hydraulic Brake Fluid. –
I. Hydraulic brake fluid shall be distributed and hydraulic brake systems shall be serviced with due regard to the safety of the occupants of the vehicle and the public and in accordance with provisions of this section.
II. No person shall distribute, have for sale, offer for sale, sell or service any vehicle with any hydraulic brake fluid unless it complies with the requirements of FMVSS.
III. Any person violating any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Source.
RSA 263:6-a. 1961, 151:1. 1973, 529:51. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:30 - Trailer Brakes.

266:30 Trailer Brakes. –
I. No motor vehicle trailer or semi-trailer shall be driven on the ways of this state unless equipped with adequate brakes in good working order and sufficient to control the said vehicle at all times. No house trailer weighing in excess of 1,500 pounds shall be driven on the ways of this state unless so equipped.
II. This section shall not apply to:
(a) A motor vehicle trailer or semi-trailer with a gross weight of less than 3,000 pounds if the axle weight of the towed vehicle does not exceed 40 percent of the sum of the rated axle weights of the towing vehicle.
(b) Wood-sawing machines, log splitters, cement mixers, compressors, tar kettles, conveyors, devices of 2 wheels used by public utilities for the transportation of cables or poles not exceeding 6 in number, road rollers and sweepers, thawing devices, or refreshment booths on wheels towed not more than 2 miles at any one time, only if being driven in intrastate commerce on the ways of New Hampshire.
Source.
1937, 81:1; 194:1. 1939, 123:1. RL 119:5. RSA 263:7. 1979, 59:1. 1981, 146:1. 2011, 183:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2012.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:31 - Front Lights.

266:31 Front Lights. –
Every motor vehicle driven during the period from
1/2 hour after sunset to
1/2 hour before sunrise, and whenever rain, snow, or fog shall interfere with the proper view of the road so that persons and vehicles on the way are not clearly discernible at a distance of 1000 feet ahead, shall display at least 2 lighted lamps on the front; provided, however, that one suitable lighted lamp on the front of a motorcycle shall be sufficient. The headlamp shall throw sufficient light ahead within the traveled portion of the way to make clearly visible all vehicles, persons, or substantial objects within a distance of 200 feet, except that the headlamps of motorcycles shall be sufficient if they make clearly visible objects within a distance of 150 feet. No headlamp shall be used unless it is approved by the director and is equipped with a proper lens or other device designed to prevent glaring rays. All headlamps on every motor vehicle shall be located at a height of not more than 54 inches nor less than 24 inches from the ground on an unladen vehicle. The measurement shall be made from the ground to the center of the lens. No device which obstructs, reflects, or alters the beam of such headlamp shall be used in connection therewith unless approved by the director. Every lens or other device to prevent glaring rays, the use of which on motor vehicles has been approved by the director, shall be arranged, adjusted, and operated in accordance with the requirements of the certificate approving the use thereof. Every lamp, bulb, or light used in any headlamp shall be of such candle power as may be specified for the approved device in the certificate approving the use thereof. Every reflector which is used as a part of such headlamp shall have a reflecting surface approved by the director after satisfactory tests have been made, and every reflecting surface shall be free from dents, rust and other imperfections. The driver of every motor vehicle shall permit any properly authorized person to inspect the headlighting equipment of such motor vehicle and to make such tests as he or she may deem necessary to determine whether the provisions of this section are being complied with. Any headlamp color approved by the director for motor vehicles shall be considered approved for motorcycles.
Source.
1905, 86:7. 1911, 133:7. 1913, 81:3. 1915, 129:6. 1917, 229:6. 1921, 119:6. PL 103:5. 1933, 105:1. 1935, 116:1. RL 119:7. RSA 263:10. 1979, 203:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2017, 104:1, eff. Aug. 7, 2017.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:31-a - Multiple Beam Lighting Equipment.

266:31-a Multiple Beam Lighting Equipment. –
All motor vehicles shall be equipped with multiple beam headlighting equipment, except that headlamp systems which provide only a single distribution of light shall be permitted on all farm tractors regardless of date of manufacture and on antique motor vehicles which were not originally equipped with multiple beam road lighting equipment.
Source.
1981, 479:53, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:33 - Antique Vehicles Exemption.

266:33 Antique Vehicles Exemption. –
Notwithstanding the provisions of RSA 266:44, the tail lamps on antique motor vehicles, farm tractors, or motorcycles as defined in RSA 259:4 shall be deemed adequate if they display a red light visible for a distance of 100 feet to the rear of such vehicle, and the tail lamp or lamps on such vehicles may be located at a height of more than 72 inches from the ground, provided they were so located at the time of original manufacture of the vehicle.
Source.
RSA 263:13-a. 1979, 203:2. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2022, 27:5, eff. June 17, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:34 - Trailers Exemption.

266:34 Trailers Exemption. –
Notwithstanding the provisions of RSA 266:44, the tail lamps and reflectors on trailers may be located at a height of less than 20 inches from the ground, measured from the ground to the center of the vehicle, provided they are placed in such manner as to indicate the extreme width of the vehicle and load, and the visibility of reflectors is not impaired at any time and they reflect rays of light thrown upon such reflectors.
Source.
RSA 263:13-b. 1979, 203:2. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:35 - Tractor Lamps.

266:35 Tractor Lamps. –
Every tractor driven on the ways of this state at night shall display at least 2 lighted lamps on the front. No such headlamp shall be used unless it is approved by the director.
Source.
1947, 88:1. RSA 263:11. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:36 - Lighting Required.

266:36 Lighting Required. –
No motor vehicle shall be used to tow another upon the ways between
1/2 hour after sundown and
1/2 hour before sunrise unless the vehicle being towed shall display at least one lighted tail lamp or auxiliary rear light to the extreme left of the rear axle.
Source.
RSA 263:92. 1967, 232:1. 1981, 146:1. 1987, 404:10, eff. July 25, 1987.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:37 - Spot Lamps and Auxiliary Lamps.

266:37 Spot Lamps and Auxiliary Lamps. –
I. Any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed 2 spot lamps and every lighted spot lamp shall be so aimed and used that no part of the high intensity portion of the beam will strike the windshield, or any windows, mirror, or occupant of another vehicle in use, except that a spot lamp may be used by a police officer to illuminate the interior of a vehicle being stopped from the rear.
II. Except as provided in paragraph II-a, any motor vehicle may be equipped with not to exceed 3 auxiliary driving lamps mounted on the front at a height not less than 12 inches nor more than 42 inches above the level surface upon which the vehicle stands, with such measurements to be made from the ground to the center of the lens, except that vehicles while used in the winter maintenance of ways may be driven with auxiliary head lamps higher than 42 inches above the surface upon which the vehicle stands provided such head lamps shall be aimed so that the top of the beam of light produced by these head lamps does not exceed the height of a horizontal line which is 42 inches high at a distance of 75 feet ahead of the head lamps of said vehicle.
II-a. Motorcycles as defined in RSA 259:63 may be equipped with not to exceed 4 auxiliary driving lamps mounted on the front of the motorcycle at a height of not more than 42 inches above the level surface upon which the motorcycle stands, with such measurements to be made from the ground to the center of the lens.
III. Every spot lamp and auxiliary driving lamp shall be approved by the director.
Source.
1947, 82:1. 1949, 46:1. RSA 263:14. 1979, 203:2. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982. 2021, 73:1, eff. Aug. 9, 2021.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:38 - Stop Lamps.

266:38 Stop Lamps. –
It shall be unlawful for any person to drive any motor vehicle, including any motorcycle, moped or motor-driven cycle, full trailer, trailer, or semi-trailer in this state unless it is equipped with one or more stop lamps in working order at all times; provided, however, that stop lamps shall not be required on a farm tractor, and further provided that whenever a vehicle is manufactured with multiple stop lamps or stop lamps with multiple bulbs or filaments, each of the lamps, bulbs, or filaments shall be in working order.
Source.
1951, 20:8, par. 8-b. RSA 263:15. 1981, 146:1. 1983, 431:13. 1987, 404:13. 2002, 252:1, eff. May 17, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:39 - School Bus Stop Signals and Strobe Lights.

266:39 School Bus Stop Signals and Strobe Lights. –
I. The director shall adopt rules pursuant to RSA 260:5 requiring certain school buses to be equipped with automatic flasher-type stop lights located on the front and rear. Said stop lights shall be of such types and designs as approved by said director. No school bus shall be driven upon the ways of the state which does not carry the equipment which may be required by the director under the provisions of this paragraph. It shall be unlawful to operate any flashing warning signal light on any school bus except when any said school bus is stopped on a way for the purpose of permitting school children to board or alight from said school bus.
II. White strobe lights may be permanently mounted on the longitudinal center line of the bus roof. Strobe lights shall be capable of being activated and deactivated by the driver.
Source.
1949, 114:3. RSA 263:26. 1961, 251:2. 1981, 146:1. 2001, 81:2, eff. Aug. 18, 2001.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:40 - Clearance Lamps.

266:40 Clearance Lamps. –
Every bus, motor truck, trailer or semi-trailer, having a width including load in excess of 80 inches, when on the ways of this state at night, shall have displayed on the front thereof, in addition to the front lights provided for in RSA 266:31, 2 amber clearance lamps. Every such vehicle shall have displayed on the rear thereof, in addition to the tail lamp and reflectors provided for in RSA 266:44, 2 red clearance lamps. All clearance lamps shall be located on the permanent part of the body, as high as possible thereon, one at the extreme left and one at the extreme right, to indicate the extreme width of said vehicle and load. Those on the front shall be visible, when lighted, for a distance of at least 500 feet from the front and the side and those at the rear shall be visible, when lighted, for a distance of at least 500 feet from the rear and the side, of said vehicle. However, in the case of vehicles and loads in excess of 45 feet in length, the rearmost clearance lamp arrangement shall be mounted on each side of the rearmost support for the load, one combination marker lamp showing amber to the front and red to the side and rear, mounted to indicate the maximum width of the vehicle and load. Said clearance lamps shall be of such type, size and color as shall be approved by the director.
Source.
1933, 134:1. 1941, 111:3. RL 119:9. RSA 263:17. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:41 - Back-up Lamps.

266:41 Back-up Lamps. –
Any motor vehicle may be equipped with back-up lamps either separately or in combination with other lamps. Such back-up lamps shall not be lighted when the motor vehicle is in forward motion.
Source.
1947, 81:1. RSA 263:18. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:42 - Directional Signals.

266:42 Directional Signals. –
It shall be unlawful to drive on any way in this state any motor vehicle registered in this state which is manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1952, unless such vehicle is equipped with directional signals approved by the director. The provisions of this section shall not apply to motorcycles manufactured prior to January 1, 1973.
Source.
1951, 20:10. RSA 263:37. 1981, 146:1. 1994, 88:1, eff. July 5, 1994.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:43 - Reflectors.

266:43 Reflectors. –
Every new motor vehicle sold and driven upon a way, other than a tractor truck, shall carry on the rear, either as a part of the tail lamps or separately, 2 red reflectors, except that every motorcycle, moped and motor-driven cycle shall carry at least one reflector.
Source.
1951, 20:8, par. 8-c. RSA 263:16. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:44 - Tail Lamp and Reflectors.

266:44 Tail Lamp and Reflectors. –
Every motor vehicle and trailer or any combination of vehicles, when on the ways of this state at night, shall have on the rear thereof, and to the left of the axis thereof, one lamp, displaying a red light visible for a distance of at least 1000 feet to the rear of such vehicle, and a white light illuminating the registration plate of such vehicle so that the characters thereon shall be visible for a distance of at least 50 feet, except that passenger cars manufactured or assembled after January 1, 1952, shall have at least 2 tail lamps, one to either side of the axis thereof. On a combination of vehicles, only the tail lamps on the rearmost vehicle need actually be seen from the distance specified. On vehicles equipped with more than one tail lamp, the lamps shall be mounted on the same level and as widely spaced laterally as practicable. All tail lamps on any vehicle shall be located at a height of not more than 72 inches nor less than 20 inches from the ground, measured from the ground to the center of the reflector, and shall be placed in such manner as to indicate the extreme width of the vehicle and load and to reflect rays of light thrown upon such reflector. The visibility of such reflectors shall not be impaired at any time. Whenever a vehicle is manufactured with multiple tail lamps or multiple bulbs or filaments in the tail lamps, each of the lamps, bulbs, or filaments and any other exterior lighting equipment with which the vehicle was manufactured shall be in working order.
Source.
1911, 133:7. 1913, 81:3. 1921, 119:6. PL 103:6. 1931, 82:1. 1933, 105:2. 1941, 111:2. RL 119:8. RSA 263:13. 1979, 203:2. 1981, 146:1. 2002, 252:2, eff. May 17, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:45 - Additional Reflectors.

266:45 Additional Reflectors. –
Every bus, motor truck, and every trailer and semi-trailer, provided the weight of said trailer or semi-trailer, including load, is 3,000 pounds or more, shall in addition to reflectors required in RSA 266:44, when driven upon the ways of this state at night, have displayed on the body or load carrying portion of said vehicle, the following: on each side one amber reflector, located at or near the front, and one red reflector located at or near the rear. Such reflectors shall be of such a type and size as shall be approved by the director and shall be located not less than 24 nor more than 48 inches from the ground. The visibility of any such reflector shall not be impaired at any time.
Source.
1935, 44:1. 1941, 111:4. RL 119:10. RSA 263:19. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:45-a - Additional Lighting Equipment.

266:45-a Additional Lighting Equipment. –
Any vehicle 80 inches or more in overall width, if not otherwise required by this chapter, may be equipped with not more than 5 identification lamps showing to the front which shall emit an amber or white light without glare and with not more than 3 identification lamps showing to the rear which shall emit a red light without glare. Such lamps shall be grouped in a horizontal row, with lamp centers spaced not less than 6 nor more than 12 inches apart, and mounted on the permanent structure of the vehicle as close as practicable to the vertical center line. Any vehicle may be equipped with one or more side marker lamps, and any such lamp may be flashed in conjunction with turn or vehicular warning signals. Lamps allowed by this section shall be of a type approved by the director.
Source.
1981, 479:54. 2005, 203:8, eff. July 1, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:46 - Lamp or Flag on Projecting Load.

266:46 Lamp or Flag on Projecting Load. –
Whenever the load upon any vehicle extends to the rear 4 feet or more beyond the bed or body of such vehicle there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of the load, at all times during lighting periods specified in RSA 266:31, a red light or lantern plainly visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the sides and rear. The red light or lantern required under this section shall be in addition to the red rear light required upon every vehicle. At any other time there shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of such load a red flag or cloth not less than 12 inches square and so hung that the entire area is visible to the driver of a vehicle approaching from the rear.
Source.
1947, 83:1. RSA 263:20. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:46-a - Slow Moving Vehicle Emblems.

266:46-a Slow Moving Vehicle Emblems. –
Every tractor or animal-drawn vehicle when being driven on any way shall at all times display on the rear thereof a slow moving vehicle emblem approved by the director.
Source.
1981, 479:55, eff. Jan. 1, 1982 at 12:01 a.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:47 - Sale and Use of Regrooved Tires Prohibited.

266:47 Sale and Use of Regrooved Tires Prohibited. –
It is unlawful for any person to use or sell any used passenger car tires that have been regrooved.
Source.
RSA 263:90. 1965, 299:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:48 - Tire Requirements.

266:48 Tire Requirements. –
It shall be unlawful to drive a motor vehicle or trailer upon the ways unless such motor vehicle or trailer is equipped with tires in safe operating condition in accordance with requirements established by the director. No tire mounted on a motor vehicle or trailer shall be deemed to be in safe operating condition unless it meets the visual and tread depth requirements set forth in this subdivision. A spare tire shall not be deemed to be a "tire mounted on a motor vehicle or trailer" for the purposes of this subdivision.
Source.
RSA 263:84. 1965, 299:1. 1967, 314:3. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:49 - Visual Requirements.

266:49 Visual Requirements. –
No tire shall be deemed to be in safe driving condition if such tire has:
I. A fabric break, or a cut in excess of one inch in any direction as measured on the outside of the tire and deep enough to reach the body cords, or has been repaired temporarily by the use of blowout patches or boots; or
II. Any bump, bulge or knot related to separation or partial failure of the tire structure; or
III. Any portion of the ply or cord structure exposed; or
IV. A portion of the tread design completely worn, provided such worn portion is of sufficient size to affect the traction and stopping ability of the tire.
Source.
RSA 263:86. 1965, 299:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:50 - Vehicle Tires.

266:50 Vehicle Tires. –
A vehicle shall be considered equipped with solid rubber, iron, steel, or other hard tires when it has 2 or more of that kind.
Source.
1921, 119:25. PL 102:4. RL 118:5. RSA 262:7. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:51 - Method of Measuring Tread Depth.

266:51 Method of Measuring Tread Depth. –
Tire tread depth shall be measured by a tread depth gauge which shall be of a type calibrated in thirty-seconds of an inch. Readings shall be taken in a major tread groove of the tire nearest the center at 2 points of the circumference not closer than 15 inches. Readings for a tire which has the tread design running across the tire or for a siped tire, where such tread design is permitted, shall be taken at or near the center of the tire at 2 points of the circumference not closer than 15 inches.
Source.
RSA 263:87. 1965, 299:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:53 - Farm Vehicle Exemptions.

266:53 Farm Vehicle Exemptions. –
Farm vehicles registered under RSA 261, self-propelled combines, self-propelled corn and hay harvesting machines and tractors used exclusively for agricultural purposes are exempt from the provisions of this subdivision.
Source.
RSA 263:89. 1965, 299:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:54 - Muffler, Horn and Lamps.

266:54 Muffler, Horn and Lamps. –
Every motor vehicle driven on the ways of this state shall be provided with a muffler, a suitable and adequate horn or other device for signaling, and suitable lamps.
Source.
1905, 86:7. 1911, 133:7. 1913, 81:3. 1917, 229:6. 1921, 119:6. PL 103:4. RL 119:4. RSA 263:5. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:55 - Mirrors.

266:55 Mirrors. –
No person shall drive upon any way any closed motor vehicle, or motor vehicle so constructed, equipped, or loaded that the driver is prevented from having a constantly free and unobstructed view of the way immediately in the rear, unless there is attached to the vehicle a mirror or reflector so placed and adjusted as to afford the driver a clear, reflected view of the way in the rear of the vehicle.
Source.
1921, 119:6. PL 103:8. RL 119:12. RSA 263:22. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:56 - Windshield Wipers and Defrosters.

266:56 Windshield Wipers and Defrosters. –
Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a windshield wiper, or wipers so-called, for cleaning rain, ice, snow or other moisture from its windshield, and every motor vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1947, shall, in addition to such windshield wiper, be also equipped with a defroster, so-called, designed for melting snow and ice from the windshield. All such devices shall at all times be maintained in good working condition.
Source.
1947, 181:1. RSA 263:23. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:57 - Flaps; Guards.

266:57 Flaps;  Guards. –
Every vehicle operated in or upon any way, when not equipped with proper fenders to prevent the throw, spray, or splash of water, dirt, or other matter, shall be equipped with suitable fender guards or flaps which shall effectively reduce the throw, spray or splash likely to be emitted from any wheel or tire. Said flaps or guards required shall be of a type and size prescribed and approved by the director.
Source.
RSA 263:21-a. 1955, 110:1. 1981, 146:1. 1987, 404:8, eff. July 25, 1987.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:58 - Safety Glass Required.

266:58 Safety Glass Required. –
It shall be unlawful to register or to drive on any way in this state any motor vehicle which shall have been manufactured or assembled on or after January 1, 1936, unless it be equipped with safety glass wherever glass is used in partitions, doors, windows, or windshields. This section shall not apply to any motor vehicle registered in another state by a bona fide resident of said state.
Source.
1935, 72:1. RL 119:41. RSA 263:70; 263:74. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:58-a - Tinted Glass.

266:58-a Tinted Glass. –
I. It shall be unlawful to sell or inspect any motor vehicle in this state which has after market tinting on the windshield.
II. It shall be unlawful to install after market tinting on the windshield on any motor vehicle which is registered in this state.
III. It shall be unlawful to drive on any way any motor vehicle registered in this state which has after market tinting on the windshield. Where after market tinting is applied to windows to the rear of the driver, outside rear view mirrors shall be required on both the left and right side of the vehicle for the use of the driver and a front seat passenger. The light transmittance of after-market tinted windows to the left and right of the driver where they are allowed shall not be less than 70 percent, and the light transmittance of after-market tinted rear windows where they are allowed shall not be less than 35 percent, except that the light transmittance of after market tinted rear windows of multipurpose passenger vehicles, as defined in 49 C.F.R. section 571.3 and pickup trucks may be such percentage as is allowed by 49 C.F.R. section 571.205 with respect to pre-market tinted rear windows.
III-a. Persons who require for medical reasons after market tinting on the windshield may apply for a special permit pursuant to RSA 266:61-a, IX.
IV. The commissioner shall adopt rules under RSA 541-A relative to the administration and enforcement of this section.
V. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit after market tinting of the windshield of a vehicle with a strip not wider than 6 inches located at the very top of the windshield, provided that the light transmittance of the strip shall not be less than 35 percent.
VI. Any natural person or any other person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1989, 160:1. 1990, 44:1. 1997, 252:4, eff. Aug. 18, 1997. 2021, 185:2, eff. Oct. 9, 2021.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:59 - Muffler; Prevention of Noise.

266:59 Muffler;  Prevention of Noise. –
I. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler as defined in RSA 259:66, in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass or similar device upon a motor vehicle on a way.
II. The engine and power mechanism of every motor vehicle shall be so equipped and adjusted as to prevent the escape of excessive fumes, smoke, flame, gas, oil or fuel residue.
III. [Repealed.]
IV. No person shall operate a motor vehicle with a straight pipe exhaust system; "straight pipe exhaust system" means any straight- through exhaust system that does not contain baffles or otherwise does not meet the definition of muffler in RSA 259:66. Any person who violates the provisions of this paragraph shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not less than $100 for a first offense, not less than $250 for a second offense in a calendar year, and not less than $500 for a third or subsequent offense in a calendar year.
Source.
1913, 81:5. 1921, 119:11. PL 103:14. RL 119:23. RSA 263:46. 1961, 205:1. 1981, 146:1. 2004, 259:1. 2005, 266:1, eff. Aug. 21, 2005.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:59-a - Motorcycle Noise Levels.

266:59-a Motorcycle Noise Levels. –
I. No person shall operate in this state any motorcycle which produces a sound level in excess of the following decibels, when measured in accordance with the provisions of the SAE International Recommended Practice SAE J2825, "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles":
(a) For all motorcycles, 92 decibels while the engine is operating at idle speed; or
(b) For motorcycles with less than 3 or more than 4 cylinders, 96 decibels while the engine is operating at 2,000 revolutions per minute or 75 percent of maximum engine speed, whichever is less; or
(c) For 3 and 4 cylinder motorcycles, 100 decibels while the engine is operating at 5,000 revolutions per minute or 75 percent of maximum engine speed, whichever is less.
II. No person shall pass for the purposes of the inspection required by RSA 266:1 any motorcycle which produces a sound level in excess of the following decibels, when measured in accordance with the provisions of the SAE International Recommended Practice SAE J2825, "Measurement of Exhaust Sound Pressure Levels of Stationary On-Highway Motorcycles":
(a) For all motorcycles, 92 decibels while the engine is operating at idle speed; or
(b) For motorcycles with less than 3 or more than 4 cylinders, 96 decibels while the engine is operating at 2,000 revolutions per minute or 75 percent of maximum engine speed, whichever is less; or
(c) For 3 and 4 cylinder motorcycles, 100 decibels while the engine is operating at 5,000 revolutions per minute or 75 percent of maximum engine speed, whichever is less.
III. Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation and shall be fined not less than $100 nor more than $300.
Source.
1992, 94:1. 1993, 9:1. 2005, 266:2. 2012, 61:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2013.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:59-c - Diesel Emission Testing.

266:59-c Diesel Emission Testing. –
I. The commissioner shall adopt rules under RSA 541-A to implement a roadside diesel opacity testing program for vehicles registered either in New Hampshire or outside New Hampshire utilizing the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) J1667 ("Snap Acceleration") test procedure. The commissioner may provide for recognition of results of recent similar tests performed by other states on the same motor vehicle.
II. The department may impose an administrative fine for any violation of this section or rule adopted under the provisions of this section. The maximum amount of the fine which may be assessed for each violation shall be $500. The commissioner shall have the authority to waive or reduce the amount of any fine assessed pursuant to this section.
III. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in case the expenditure of additional funds over budget estimates is necessary to implement and enforce this section, the governor and council, with the prior approval of the fiscal committee of the general court, upon request from the commissioner, may authorize the transfer of funds from the highway surplus account to the department of safety for such purpose.
Source.
1998, 207:5, eff. June 18, 1998.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:60 - Standards for Odometers.

266:60 Standards for Odometers. –
No passenger motor vehicle designated as a 1972 or later model which is manufactured after January 1, 1972, shall be registered in this state unless it is equipped with a tamper-resistant odometer designed with the intent to reduce the likelihood of unlawful tampering with the mileage reading thereon. The director may adopt rules pursuant to RSA 260:5 establishing standards for such devices, which standards shall be consistent with provisions of federal law, if any, relating thereto. The director shall not require, as a condition precedent to the initial sale of a vehicle, the inspection, certification or other approval of such odometer if such device or equipment has been certified by the manufacturer as complying with federal or state law or rule.
Source.
RSA 260:93. 1971, 533:1. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXI - Motor Vehicles › Chapter 266 - Equipment of Vehicles › Section 266:60-a - Fire Extinguishers.

266:60-a Fire Extinguishers. –
I. Every motor vehicle listed below shall be equipped at all times with a fire extinguisher, which shall comply with standards approved by the state fire marshal and the commissioner by rule adopted under RSA 260:5:
(a) All commercially registered motor vehicles weighing over 8,000 pounds, except for municipally owned vehicles.
(b) All motor homes and motor home trailers that have motor vehicle registrations.
II. The driver or owner of any motor vehicle failing to comply with this section shall be guilty of a violation in accordance with RSA 266:5.
Source.
1994, 9:2, eff. Jan. 1, 1995.