What a Nebraska learner's permit lets you do

A Nebraska learner's permit is a document that lets you practice driving before you take the road test for a full license. With a learner's permit, you can drive on public roads, but only under specific conditions — mainly that a licensed adult sits in the front passenger seat beside you.

The permit is valid for one year from the date the Department of Motor Vehicles issues it. You can renew it if you have not yet passed your driving test. The permit costs money when you first get it, and renewal also has a fee, though the exact amount changes year to year.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a licensed driver age 19 or older sitting in the front passenger seat whenever you drive with a learner's permit.
  • You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. with a learner's permit, even with a supervising driver present.
  • You are not allowed to use a cell phone or any handheld device while driving, with no exceptions for emergencies.
  • Your permit is valid for one year, and you can renew it if you have not yet passed your road test.
  • Violating learner's permit rules can result in fines and may delay your ability to take the road test.

Who must sit with you while you drive

Nebraska law requires that a licensed driver age 19 or older occupy the front passenger seat at all times while you are driving with a learner's permit. This person must have a valid driver's license — an expired license does not count. The supervising driver is responsible for helping you learn and for making sure you follow the rules of the road.

The supervising driver cannot be distracted or impaired. If the adult in the passenger seat is using a phone, eating, or otherwise not paying attention, you are still breaking the law by driving. The responsibility falls on both of you.

Driving hours and time restrictions

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. with a learner's permit, regardless of who is sitting next to you. This restriction exists because new drivers are at higher risk of crashes during late-night and early-morning hours, when visibility is poor and fatigue is common.

There are no other time-of-day restrictions on a learner's permit in Nebraska — you can drive during daylight hours and evening hours as long as you have your supervising driver present. However, your supervising driver may set stricter rules for you, and it is wise to follow them.

Cell phone and device rules

You cannot use a cell phone, smartphone, or any handheld electronic device while driving with a learner's permit. This includes texting, calling, checking maps, adjusting music, or any other use. The rule applies even if you are at a red light or stopped in traffic.

The only exception is if you need to call 911 in a true emergency. Hands-free devices like Bluetooth are also prohibited for learner's permit holders. The goal is to keep your full attention on the road while you are still learning.

Seat belt and passenger rules

You and everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt at all times. This is the law for all drivers in Nebraska, but it is especially important while you are learning. Your supervising driver should model good habits by always buckling up.

There are no restrictions on how many passengers you can have in the car with you, but every passenger must be properly restrained. If you are driving younger siblings or friends, make sure they are all buckled in before you start the engine.

What happens if you break the rules

Violating learner's permit rules can result in a fine. The amount depends on which rule you broke and whether you have broken it before. A first offense for driving without a supervising driver, for example, carries a different penalty than a cell phone violation.

Beyond fines, breaking the rules can delay your progress toward a full license. If you receive a traffic ticket or are cited for a permit violation, you may have to wait longer before you are allowed to take your road test. Some violations can also result in your permit being suspended or revoked, which means you would have to start the process over.

How to renew your learner's permit

Your learner's permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. If you have not passed your road test by the time it expires, you can renew it at your local DMV office or through the Nebraska DMV website. You will need to bring your current permit and pay the renewal fee.

You do not have to take the written test again when you renew — you only renew the permit itself. However, if your permit has been expired for more than a certain period, Nebraska may require you to retake the written test. Contact your local DMV office to find out the exact rules in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive alone to school or work with a learner's permit?

No. Nebraska law requires a licensed driver age 19 or older to be in the front passenger seat at all times. Driving alone, even for a short distance or for school, is a violation and can result in a fine and permit suspension.

What if my supervising driver falls asleep while I'm driving?

You are still breaking the law. The supervising driver must be awake and able to help you. If your driver falls asleep, pull over safely and switch drivers or call someone else to pick you up. Continuing to drive is a violation.

Can I use GPS or a phone mounted on the dashboard?

No. Any handheld or handheld-like use of a phone is prohibited, including mounted phones. If you need directions, ask your supervising driver to hold the phone and give you directions, or program your route before you start driving.

Do I have to take the road test before my permit expires?

No. You can renew your permit if it expires before you are ready to test. However, you cannot drive legally once your permit expires, so renew it before the expiration date if you plan to keep practicing.

What if I get a speeding ticket with my learner's permit?

A speeding ticket is a traffic violation separate from learner's permit rules. You will face a fine for speeding, and the violation may be reported to the DMV. This can delay your road test or affect your driving record even after you get your full license.