License Plate FAQs

How do I replace lost or damaged Nebraska license plates?

Head to your local Nebraska county treasurer and explain the situation. The Nebraska DMV doesn't provide any forms online, but your county official's office handles all the paperwork for you.

The fee is $13.75.

Where can I find examples of Nebraska license plates?

We cover specialty plates pretty extensively in our License Plates & Placards section; however, you can find examples of regular passenger plates, commercial plates, and motorcycle plates in Nebraska's online license plate brochure.

If you have a particular kind of plate in mind, check the Specialty Plate Search.

I'm not a Nebraska resident, but I purchased a car here. Can I legally drive it on Nebraska roads? How do I get it back to my home state?

You must apply for non-resident 30-day license plates at your nearest Nebraska county treasurer's office.

Make sure your title (or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin) includes your correct out-of-state address, and take it, along with the $20 fee, to the county treasurer's office.

Should I be concerned about repossession plates

Only if your vehicle is being repossessed, used in a demonstration, or disposed. Otherwise, only Nebraska finance companies need to worry about repossession plates.

How do I get my hands on transporter plates in Nebraska?

First you need to make sure you actually need transporter plates. Unless you are in the business of transporting, modifying, or equipping vehicles or trailers that don't belong to you or your business, you don't need transporter plates.

If any of the above situations apply to you, you can apply for transporter plates by mail or in person.

Note that fees vary and you'll need to refer to the Nebraska DMV's application instructions to find your specific fees.

Can I order disabled driver license plates for my motorcycle?

Yes! Simply request them during the application process.

Can I use my old license plate on my new vehicle if I haven't registered my new vehicle yet?

Yes. You have 30 days to register your new vehicle, and during those 30 days (and those 30 days only) you can use your old license plates.

Remember to carry proper ownership documentation with you just in case you're stopped by law enforcement. You'll need to prove you own the new vehicle, as well as the license plate.

I need to know everything there is to know about Nebraska license plates!

We can't guarantee it's everything there is to know, but the History of Nebraska Passenger Vehicle License Plates is pretty extensive.

What are the qualifications for antique license plates?

In Nebraska, antique plates are referred to as "historical" plates. To qualify, your vehicle must be at least 30 years old, retain most of its original parts, and be used only for exhibitions, parades and hobby-related activities. Visit our License Plates & Placards page for more information about applying.

If I move out of state, do I need to surrender my plates?

If you want some money for them, yes. Nebraska issues prorated refunds on unused registrations, so get yourself settled in your new state, and then mail the plates back to your county official. Include your registration and a copy of your new registration, and the office will send you any applicable refunds.