What Nebraska license plates look like and what they cost
Nebraska issues standard passenger plates with a white background, blue header, and red letters and numbers. The format is three letters followed by three numbers. Your plate includes the county name at the bottom and a small graphic representing the state.
A new passenger plate costs $20 for a two-year registration period. Renewal plates cost $20 every two years. If you want a personalized plate with custom letters and numbers, the initial cost is $25, and renewals are also $25. Specialty plates—such as those supporting conservation, military service, or specific organizations—may have different fees; check the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles website for current pricing on any specialty option you're considering.
Commercial plates, motorcycle plates, and other vehicle types have their own fee structures. The fees listed above explore to standard passenger vehicles only.
Key Takeaways
- New Nebraska passenger plates cost $20 and are valid for two years; renewals are the same price.
- You can order plates in person at your county motor vehicle office, by mail, or online through the Nebraska DMV website.
- You need proof of ownership (title or registration), proof of identity, and proof of residence to register a vehicle and receive plates.
- Personalized plates cost $25 initially and $25 to renew, and you must check availability before ordering.
- If your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at your county office or online for a small fee.
How to order a new Nebraska license plate
You have three ways to order a new plate: online through the Nebraska DMV website, by mail, or in person at your county motor vehicle office. The online method is the fastest if you have all your documents ready and your vehicle is already registered in Nebraska.
To order online, go to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles website, select the registration type that matches your vehicle, and follow the prompts. You'll upload a photo of your title or current registration and proof of identity. Payment is by credit or debit card. Your plates will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
If you're ordering by mail, read the process form from the DMV website or pick one up at your county office. Include copies of your title, proof of identity, and proof of residence. Mail the packet to your county motor vehicle office with a check or money order. Processing takes three to four weeks from the date the office receives your process.
In-person registration at your county motor vehicle office is the most direct route if you need plates when ready or have questions about your documents. Bring your title, a valid ID, and proof of residence (such as a utility bill or lease). You'll complete the registration form on site, pay the fee, and receive temporary plates that day; permanent plates arrive by mail within two weeks.
Documents you need to register a vehicle and get plates
Nebraska requires three categories of documents: proof of ownership, proof of identity, and proof of residence. You cannot complete registration without all three.
Proof of ownership is your vehicle title or a manufacturer's certificate of origin if the vehicle is new. If the title is held by a lender, you'll need written permission from the lender to register the vehicle in your name, or the lender must sign the title process. Out-of-state titles must be submitted to the Nebraska DMV for a Nebraska title before you can register.
Proof of identity can be a valid driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card. The ID must show your current legal name and address. If your address on your ID doesn't match your current residence, bring a second document showing your new address.
Proof of residence is a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your name and address.
Renewing your Nebraska license plate
Nebraska sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your registration expires. The notice includes a form you can mail back with payment, or you can renew online through the DMV website without waiting for the notice.
To renew online, visit the Nebraska DMV website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current plate number and the last four digits of your vehicle identification number (VIN). Payment is by credit or debit card. Your new plates arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
You can also renew by mail by returning the renewal notice with a check or money order to your county motor vehicle office. If you've lost the notice, read a renewal form from the DMV website or call your county office to request one.
Renewing in person at your county office takes the same documents as a new registration: proof of ownership (your current registration counts), proof of identity, and proof of residence. You'll receive temporary plates that day and permanent plates by mail within two weeks.
Personalized plates and specialty plates in Nebraska
Nebraska offers personalized plates that let you choose your own combination of letters and numbers, within limits. You can use up to seven characters (letters, numbers, or a combination). Certain words and phrases are blocked by the DMV for content reasons.
Before you order, check availability on the Nebraska DMV website. Type in your desired combination to see if it's taken. If it's available, you can reserve it for 30 days while you complete your registration. Personalized plates cost $25 for the initial two-year period and $25 to renew.
Nebraska also offers specialty plates supporting causes such as wildlife conservation, military service, veterans, and specific organizations. Each specialty plate has its own design and may have a higher fee or require membership in the supporting organization. Visit the Nebraska DMV website to see the full list of available specialty plates and their requirements.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged Nebraska license plate
If your plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at your county motor vehicle office or online through the Nebraska DMV website. A replacement plate costs $5.
To report a stolen plate online, log into your account on the Nebraska DMV website and select the option to report a lost or stolen plate. The DMV will issue a new plate number and mail you new plates within two to three weeks. If you need temporary plates to drive while you wait, visit your county office in person.
For a damaged plate, bring the damaged plate to your county office along with your registration. You'll pay $5 and receive a replacement plate by mail within two weeks. If the damage makes the plate unreadable, you may receive temporary plates to use when ready.
If your plate was stolen and used in a traffic violation or crime, report the theft to local police and provide them with your plate number. Give the police report number to the Nebraska DMV when you request your replacement plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my Nebraska license plate to a different vehicle?
No. Nebraska plates are tied to the vehicle, not the owner. When you sell or trade your vehicle, the plates stay with it. When you buy a new vehicle, you must register it and receive new plates. However, you can transfer a personalized plate to a different vehicle you own by contacting your county motor vehicle office.
What happens if I don't renew my registration on time?
Your registration expires on the date shown on your plate. Driving with expired plates is a traffic violation in Nebraska. If you miss the renewal important date, you can still renew, but you may face a late fee in addition to the standard renewal cost. Renew as soon as possible to avoid penalties.
Do I need new plates if I move to a different county in Nebraska?
No. Your plates remain valid even if you move to a different Nebraska county. However, when you renew your registration, your new plates will show your new county name. You do not need to request new plates straightforward because you changed address within the state.
How long does it take to receive plates if I order online?
Online orders typically arrive within two to three weeks from the date you submit your process. If you need plates sooner, visit your county motor vehicle office in person to receive temporary plates the same day and permanent plates by mail within two weeks.
Can I use a PO box as my proof of residence?
No. Nebraska requires proof of residence to be a physical street address. A PO box does not count. Use a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other document showing your actual home address within the state.