Nebraska Vehicle Registration

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So, you are looking to register a vehicle in Nebraska? This requires you to file and submit a few different forms and fees depending on the type of vehicle. Registration is required whether you’ve purchased a new or used car through a private or dealer sale. The registration process shouldn’t take longer than a few hours if you read this guide and prepare ahead of time.

Want to get your car on the road in Nebraska? It’s an easy process to do in person or by mail.

Nebraska Vehicle Registration Requirements

  • Proof of identification
  • Registration/Title Application
  • Proof of ownership
  • Paying the taxes and fees

…plus, any applicable vehicle testing and disclosures.

In person, you will register your vehicle at a Nebraska Department of Revenue treasury office. You may register the car through the mail, too. Failing to register a vehicle on time can result in late fees.

We’ve outlined the Nebraska registration process, keeping it as easy as possible.

Registering Your Car in Nebraska: Step-by-Step

Residents must register the vehicle within 30 days of its purchase. Dealerships will submit your documents on your behalf – though you may choose to register if desired. New Nebraska residents have up to 30 days to register their vehicles after establishing residency.

The vehicle registration takes place at a local county treasurer’s office.

Here is how you register a car or truck in Nebraska:

  1. Go to your nearest NE tax office
  2. Show proof of vehicle ownership
    1. Vehicle title, or
    2. Application for Certificate of Title, or
    3. Signed lease agreement
  3. Provide proof of NE auto insurance
  4. Show your receipts:
    1. Bill of sale
    2. Excise tax payment
  5. Pay your county taxes
  6. Pay your registration fees
    1. Registration: $15
    2. Plate fee: $3.30
    3. County fund: $1.50
    4. Recreation fund: $1.50
    5. DMV cash fund: $2.00
    6. EMS operation fund: $2.50

… plus any extra county fees.

Nebraska Vehicle Bill of Sale

The bill of sale should consist of the purchaser and seller’s names, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle, the sale date, and the sale price. The seller should then sign and date the bill of sale.

Mail-in Registration

The treasurer will provide your new registration, plates, and stickers.

The mail-in registration follows the same process, including proof of ownership, auto insurance, sales/tax payment, and payment for the registration. Send the documents to your county treasurer’s office, and you’ll receive your documents in the mail not long after.

You may also choose to file an Affidavit for Storage and Non-Use to the county if you don’t plan to use the vehicle. Or if the vehicle hasn’t been driven for at least one year since its expiration.

Moving to Nebraska (Registering an Out-of-State Vehicle)

Those coming from out-of-state with a titled and purchased vehicle are required to:

  • Have auto insurance
  • Get a vehicle inspection
  • Register the vehicle (or transfer lien info)

Drivers will take their vehicles to a local sheriff’s office to have their cars inspected. This inspection is suitable for up to 90 days – the information is forwarded to your local treasurer’s office.

Registering the new vehicle involves:

  1. Go to the county office
  2. Show proof of insurance
  3. Submit the Application for Certificate of Title (RV-707)
  4. Submit the out-of-state title
  5. Show proof of the inspection
  6. Pay the registration and county fees

You should receive your permanent documents a few weeks after completing this registration.

Nebraska Registration Fee & Taxes

Motor Vehicle Tax

When a vehicle is first registered and until it is 14 years old, it is subject to Motor Vehicle Tax. This tax is based on the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of the vehicle, which is determined by the manufacturer and remains fixed.

  • 22% is for the county
  • 60% for the local school system
  • 18% for City and Villages

Motor Vehicle Fee

The Motor Vehicle Fee is calculated based on the vehicle’s value, weight, and usage, and it is adjusted as the vehicle ages. Once the County Treasurer retains 1% of the fee, the remaining funds are distributed as follows:

  • 50% County Treasurer
  • 50% County Treasurer of each municipality.

Registration Fee

Passenger & Leased Vehicles$15.00
Commercial Trucks and Tractors are based on the gross weight of the vehicle
Farm Plated Truck and Truck Tractors are based on the gross weight of the vehicle.

Set a Reminder for Registration Renewal

You’ll want to mark your calendar or else wait to receive a renewal notice when it comes time.

You can check the exact date listed on the registration – 1 year from its registration — so keep this in mind and mark your calendar! See our NE registration renewal guide for more info when you’re ready.S