According to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), drivers have 30 days from the date of purchase or transfer of ownership to apply for vehicle registration. If you purchase your vehicle from a dealership, a sales representative will help with the title transfer and vehicle registration process. If you buy a used car from a private party, however, you'll need to complete this process on your own.

Nebraska Vehicle Registration

You must apply for vehicle registration at the county treasurer's office in your county of residence. The process can be completed in person or by mail, although you will need to have the following documents:

• A copy of the lease agreement, if applicable
• Proof of a valid auto insurance policy
• Proof of payment of sales or excise tax
• The “Registration Application” copy of the Nebraska Certificate of Title

There are no safety inspection, emissions testing, or smog check requirements for car registration in Nebraska. If you are relocating to Nebraska, you have 30 days to register cars in your name. You must update your vehicle registration in this time period even if your license plates are still currently valid in your home state.

Registration fees will vary depending upon the type of vehicle you drive. You can obtain a fee estimate from the NE DMV website or contact your county treasurer's office for assistance.

Once you complete the car registration process, you'll be issued a vehicle registration certificate, license plates, and validation tabs. Keep the registration certificate in your vehicle and place the validation tabs on your license plates.

Registration Expiration

Although many states have car registration expiration dates that are determined by your birthday, Nebraska uses a slightly different system. Vehicles are registered on a monthly, staggered basis. Registrations are valid for one year, with expiration dates determined by the month in which the vehicle was purchased.  If you own two or more vehicles, however, you can opt to register on calendar year basis with your registration expiring each January or an on annual basis with an expiration in the month of your choice.