What Nebraska License Plates Are and How to Get One

A Nebraska license plate is a metal tag issued by the state that identifies your vehicle for registration and road use. You get one when you register a vehicle in Nebraska, and you must display it on the front and back of your car. The plate stays with your vehicle registration — when you renew your registration, you keep the same plate unless it is damaged or you request a replacement.

The process starts at your county assessor's office or through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You will need proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of Nebraska residency, and proof of insurance. The assessor's office handles registration and issues the plate; you do not order it separately. Most counties allow you to complete this in person or by mail.

Nebraska plates are valid for two years from the date of issue. Your registration renewal notice will arrive by mail about 30 days before expiration. You can renew in person, by mail, or online through the Nebraska DMV website — online renewal is the fastest option if your vehicle information has not changed.

Key Takeaways

  • Nebraska requires both a front and back license plate on every registered vehicle, and you get the plate when you register through your county assessor's office.
  • You need a vehicle title or bill of sale, proof of Nebraska residency, and proof of insurance to register and receive a plate.
  • Plates are valid for two years, and you renew registration by mail, in person, or online through the Nebraska DMV.
  • Personalized plates are available for an additional fee and take longer to produce than standard plates.
  • If your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement from your county assessor for a small fee.

Standard Plates Versus Personalized Plates in Nebraska

Nebraska issues standard white plates with blue lettering and the state name across the top. The format is three letters followed by three numbers, though some older plates may differ. Standard plates are included in your registration fee and are produced and mailed to you within a few weeks of registration.

Personalized plates let you choose your own combination of letters and numbers (within state rules). You can request one when you first register or during any renewal. The Nebraska DMV website has a tool to check whether your desired combination is available. Personalized plates cost an additional $25 per year on top of your standard registration fee.

Personalized plates take longer to produce — typically four to six weeks instead of two to three weeks for standard plates. If you need a plate quickly, stick with the standard option. You can always add a personalized plate at your next renewal.

Special Plates and Veteran Designations

Nebraska offers special plates for military veterans, active-duty service members, and disabled veterans. These plates display a military emblem or veteran designation and are issued at no extra cost beyond standard registration. To receive a veteran plate, you must provide a copy of your military discharge papers (DD Form 214) or active-duty documentation to your county assessor.

The state also issues plates for disabled persons with a wheelchair symbol. These plates come with parking privileges that allow you to use accessible parking spaces. You must have a disability placard or plate issued by your physician or the DMV to receive this plate.

Conservation plates and collegiate plates (featuring Nebraska university logos) are also available. These cost more than standard plates but support specific causes or institutions. The Nebraska DMV website lists all available special plate types and their annual costs.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Plate

If your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, contact your county assessor's office to request a replacement. You will need to provide your vehicle registration number and proof of the loss or damage. A replacement plate costs between $5 and $10 depending on your county.

If your plate was stolen, some counties ask you to file a police report first. Bring the report number when you explore for the replacement. The replacement plate will have the same number as your original — Nebraska does not issue a new number when you replace a damaged or lost plate.

Replacement plates are usually ready within one to two weeks. If you need one urgently, call your assessor's office to ask whether you can pick it up in person rather than waiting for mail delivery.

Registration Renewal and Plate Expiration

Your Nebraska registration expires on the date printed on your plate and registration card. The last two digits on your plate show the expiration year. You must renew before that date or you cannot legally drive the vehicle.

The Nebraska DMV mails renewal notices about 30 days before expiration. If you do not receive one, contact your county assessor or check the DMV website. You can renew online if your vehicle has not changed ownership, your address is current, and your insurance is active. Online renewal takes a few minutes and costs the same as in-person renewal.

If you renew by mail, send your renewal notice with payment to your county assessor. If you renew in person, bring your registration card, proof of current insurance, and payment. Renewal fees vary by vehicle weight and county but typically range from $100 to $200 for a standard passenger vehicle.

What to Do If Your Address Changes

If you move within Nebraska, you must update your address with the county assessor within 30 days. You do not need a new plate, but your registration records must show your current address. You can update your address online through the Nebraska DMV website, by mail, or in person at your assessor's office.

If you move out of Nebraska, you must register your vehicle in your new state and surrender your Nebraska plate. Return the plate to your county assessor or keep it as a souvenir — Nebraska does not require you to return plates, but some counties prefer you do.

If you move to Nebraska from another state, you have 30 days to register your vehicle and get a Nebraska plate. Bring your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and proof of residency to your county assessor. Your out-of-state plate is no longer valid once you register in Nebraska.

County Assessor Offices and Where to Register

Vehicle registration in Nebraska is handled by county assessor offices, not a single state DMV office. Each county has its own assessor's office, and you must register with the assessor in the county where you live. You cannot register in a different county unless you have moved there.

Most assessor offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Many offer online registration renewal and mail-in registration for new vehicles, which can save you a trip. The Nebraska DMV website has a directory of all county assessor offices with phone numbers and hours.

If you live in Omaha or Lincoln, your county assessor's office may have multiple locations. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment, as some offices require them during busy periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need both a front and back license plate in Nebraska?

Yes. Nebraska law requires a plate on both the front and back of your vehicle. If you register a vehicle, you receive two plates — one for each end. Displaying only one plate or covering a plate is illegal and can result in a citation.

Can I keep my old Nebraska plate if I buy a new vehicle?

No. Plates are tied to vehicle registration, not to the owner. When you register a new vehicle, you receive a new plate. Your old plate becomes invalid once you transfer ownership or sell the vehicle. You cannot transfer a plate to a different vehicle.

How long does it take to get a Nebraska license plate after I register?

Standard plates arrive by mail within two to three weeks of registration. Personalized plates take four to six weeks. If you need a plate urgently, ask your county assessor whether temporary plates or expedited service are available — some counties offer these options for an additional fee.

What happens if I drive with an expired plate?

Driving with an expired plate is illegal in Nebraska. You can be cited and fined. If your registration is about to expire, renew it before the expiration date. If you miss the important date, renew when ready and keep proof of renewal in your vehicle in case you are stopped.

Can I order a Nebraska license plate online?

You cannot order a plate directly online, but you can renew your registration online through the Nebraska DMV website if you are renewing an existing registration. For new vehicle registration or personalized plates, you must contact your county assessor in person or by mail.