Certifications & licenses in New Hampshire
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in NH. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about New Hampshire
Licensing landscape in New Hampshire
As of August 9, 2025, the minimum training requirement for cosmetologists will decrease from 1,500 to 1,200 hours.
Associated Hair Professionals
New Hampshire requires 750 hours of training for massage therapists, significantly more than neighboring Maine (500) and Massachusetts (650).
NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
To receive a license by reciprocity, EMTs from out-of-state must provide proof of New Hampshire residency or pending employment.
NH.gov
Aspiring journeyman electricians must document 8,000 hours of practical experience to qualify for licensure.
NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in New Hampshire
A $60,000 salary in a state with a 110.5 cost of living index has the purchasing power of about $54,298 in an average-cost state.
Regional comparison: New Hampshire vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs NH |
|---|---|---|
| NH | $47,870 | — |
| MA | $46,680 | -2% vs NH |
| VT | $47,130 | -2% vs NH |
| ME | $47,070 | -2% vs NH |
| State | Required training hours | vs NH |
|---|---|---|
| NH | 750 hours | — |
| MA | 650 hours | -100 hours |
| VT | — | no statewide licensing |
| ME | 500 hours | -250 hours |
Healthcare in New Hampshire
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $47,870 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $59,530 |
| EMT | Required | $46,790 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $77,110 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $48,020 |
| Medical Coder | No | $49,210 |
| Paramedic | Required | $64,210 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $47,360 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $48,660 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $84,910 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $99,700 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $95,940 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $75,040 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $101,250 |
Skilled Trades in New Hampshire
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $60,280 |
| Electrician | Required | $62,840 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $73,850 |
| Plumber | Required | $66,810 |
| Welder | No | $62,360 |
Personal Care & Wellness in New Hampshire
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $49,360 |
| Barber | Required | — |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $34,650 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $80,360 |
Professional & Business in New Hampshire
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $83,470 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $62,040 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $74,370 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $57,620 |