Where to go and what to bring

In Lincoln, you renew your driver's license at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office located at 301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68508. You can walk in during business hours — the office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing an expired license and your address has changed, the address proof becomes especially important because the DMV will update your records at the same time.

You do not need an appointment. The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Saturday mornings tend to be busier. If you want to check current wait times before you go, the Nebraska DMV website shows estimated wait times for the Lincoln office.

Key Takeaways

  • The Lincoln DMV office is at 301 Centennial Mall South and is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with no appointment needed.
  • Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address dated within the last 60 days.
  • The renewal fee is $30 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license, paid by cash, check, or card at the counter.
  • You will have a new photo taken at the office, and your new license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license is expired by more than three years, you may need to retake the written test; call the DMV ahead to confirm what you need.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called, then go to a counter where a DMV employee will review your documents. They will ask you to verify your address and confirm that the information on your current license is still correct. If anything has changed besides your address, tell them now — they can update your height, eye color, or other details at this time.

Next, you will have your photo taken. The DMV uses a digital camera, and you will see the photo on a screen before it is finalized. If you dislike the photo, you can request a retake, though the DMV limits retakes to one per visit. After your photo is taken, you will pay the renewal fee at the same counter or at a separate payment window.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to payment, depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Keep this paper license with you — it is your proof of a valid license until the plastic card arrives.

Renewal fees and payment methods

A four-year driver's license renewal costs $30. An eight-year renewal costs $60. You choose which term you want when you are at the counter. The DMV accepts cash, personal checks, and debit or credit cards. If you pay by check, write it to the "State of Nebraska."

There are no additional fees for address changes, name changes, or photo retakes. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license instead of renewing, that is a different transaction with a different fee; the DMV staff can tell you the cost if that applies to you.

How long the process takes and when you get your new license

Your new plastic license is mailed to the address you provided at the DMV office. Standard mailing takes 7 to 10 business days from the day you renew. During that time, your temporary paper license is valid for driving. Do not throw it away until your plastic license arrives.

If you are renewing before your current license expires, your new license will arrive before the old one does. If you are renewing an expired license, the new one will still be mailed to your address on file. Check your mailbox regularly; if your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DMV to report it.

Renewing online or by mail

Nebraska does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at the DMV office. Mail-in renewal is also not available for standard license renewals.

The only exception is if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL). CDL holders have different renewal rules and should contact the DMV directly or visit the Nebraska DMV website for CDL-specific instructions.

What to do if your license is expired by more than three years

If your license has been expired for more than three years, Nebraska may require you to retake the written knowledge test as part of your renewal. This is not automatic — it depends on how long your license has been expired and your driving record. Before you go to the DMV, call ahead at the Lincoln office to ask whether you need to study for and take the test.

If you do need to retake the test, you will take it at the DMV office during your renewal visit. The test covers Nebraska traffic laws and road signs. You can study using the Nebraska DMV's free online study guide, which is available on their website. If you pass the test, your renewal will proceed as normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

Yes. An expired license can still be renewed at the DMV office. Bring the same documents you would bring for a standard renewal. If your license has been expired for more than three years, you may need to retake the written test — call the Lincoln DMV office first to confirm.

What if I do not have proof of my address?

You need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. Acceptable documents include utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, insurance policies, or government mail. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new name at your new address, bring what you have and explain the situation to the DMV staff — they may be able to work with you.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You need proof of your Social Security number, but not necessarily your card. A W-2, 1099, or Social Security card all work. If you do not have any of these, contact the DMV ahead of time to ask what other documents they will accept.

What if I moved out of state and want to renew my Nebraska license?

You must renew in person at a Nebraska DMV office. If you no longer live in Nebraska, you will need to travel to Lincoln or another DMV location in the state. Alternatively, you may want to get a driver's license in your new state instead. Contact the DMV in your new state to learn their requirements.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must be present in person at the DMV office to renew your license. The DMV requires you to have your photo taken and to verify your information yourself. A family member or friend cannot do this on your behalf.