How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in New Hampshire
State Regulation & Policy Notice
Rules change by state and year. Last verified April 23, 2026. Confirm eligibility, waitlists, and current application procedures with the linked state department or regional agency.
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in New Hampshire, covering Early Support and Services, BDS area agencies, NH's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in New Hampshire.
About this information
This educational guide is published by AutismHearts. It has not been independently clinically reviewed. Confirm important medical, legal, benefits, and education decisions with qualified professionals or official agencies.
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you're looking for how to get an autism diagnosis in New Hampshire, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and its Children's Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD) is the state's academic medical anchor, with strong connections to Dartmouth's neurodevelopmental programs. New Hampshire's 10 regional Area Agencies administer developmental disability services statewide.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in New Hampshire: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact NH Early Support and Services (ESS) if your child is under age 3. Contact your regional Area Agency or the NH Bureau of Developmental Services — find your regional ESS program through the NH DHHS website. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school district. NH districts must evaluate within 45 school days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in New Hampshire →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in New Hampshire
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center / Children's Hospital at Dartmouth (CHaD, Lebanon): New Hampshire's premier academic medical program; developmental-behavioral pediatrics. 9–15 month waits.
- Concord Hospital (Concord): Good option for Central NH families.
- Elliot Hospital (Manchester): Manchester metro option; developmental pediatrics.
- Southern New Hampshire Medical Center (Nashua): Option for Southeast NH; many Nashua-area families also access Boston programs (MGH, Boston Children's, Tufts).
- Private Practice Psychologists: Concentrated in the Manchester-Nashua corridor; typical waits of 2–4 months.
New Hampshire-Specific Programs and Rights
Early Support and Services (ESS) — Ages 0–3: Contact your regional Area Agency or NH DHHS. Free evaluations; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 45 school days to complete at no cost.
Bureau of Developmental Services (BDS) / Area Agencies — All Ages NH BDS oversees 10 regional Area Agencies that provide developmental disability services:
- In-Home Supports Waiver: Personal care, skill-building, and respite for individuals living at home.
- Developmental Disabilities Waiver: Residential and day supports for individuals needing more intensive services.
- Acquired Brain Disorder (ABD) Waiver: For individuals with acquired brain injuries.
Contact your regional Area Agency (find it through the NH DHHS website) to apply.
NH VR / Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) — Age 14+: Job coaching and career support.
New Hampshire Autism Insurance Mandate: NH's mandate (2009) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism treatment including ABA. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.