When I Moved to New Hampshire, I Was Surprised by the Seat Belt Law

One of the most surprising things I learned about New Hampshire once I moved here is that the state doesn't require adults over 18 to wear a seatbelt.

Turns out, the Governors Highway Safety Association says that the Granite State is the only one in the U.S. to not have a seat belt law for adults.

For many from New Hampshire, that just makes sense.

This spirit ties directly into New Hampshire’s famous motto: “Live Free or Die.” More than just a phrase stamped on license plates, it represents a philosophy that prioritizes personal liberty and limited government intervention.

For many residents, the absence of a mandatory seatbelt law is not about rejecting safety, but about preserving the right to decide for oneself.

Critics, however, point to safety concerns and argue that the safety of everyone on the road should take precedence over personal choice.

It is worth noting that this law applies to adults, and anyone under 18 is required to buckle up.

It has been an ongoing debate for years, and the legislation has been discussed on numerous occasions. WMUR reported it was talked about again in 2023, but there was no change to the law.

The seatbelt law serves as a small but powerful example of how the state lives out its motto in everyday life.

Whether viewed as admirable independence or risky defiance, it undeniably reflects a commitment to freedom that defines New Hampshire’s identity.