Expired Registration in Nebraska

Motor vehicle registration in Nebraska is obligatory for all vehicles operated on public roads and highways. The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles regulates all vehicle registration procedures throughout the state, while the Nebraska State Patrol enforces compliance with registration laws on Nebraska's roadways.

State Code Provisions in Nebraska

Chapter 60 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes establishes Nebraska's vehicle registration requirements, governing motor vehicles and traffic regulations. The Motor Vehicle Registration Act, encompassing sections 60-301 through 60-3,260, specifically addresses registration procedures, renewal requirements, display of registration plates, penalties for violations, and enforcement mechanisms.

Registration Terms and Expiration in Nebraska

Registration Renewal System

Nebraska operates an annual registration system based on a monthly expiration schedule. According to Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-392, registration may be renewed annually and the registration period for motor vehicles and trailers expires on the first day of the month one year from the month of issuance.

Standard Vehicle Registration:

• Registrations expire on the first day of the month one year from the month of issuance
• Renewal becomes due on the expiration date and becomes delinquent on the first day of the following month
• Vehicle owners may renew an annual registration up to 30 days prior to the date of expiration
• If renewed within the 30-day advance period, the registration remains valid for the early renewal period plus the full registration year

Grace Period for Expired Registration

Nebraska provides a 30-day grace period for parking expired vehicles, but NO grace period for operating vehicles with expired registration. According to Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-3,164(2), a person who parks a motor vehicle or tows a trailer on any highway with expired registration shall not be in violation unless 30 days have passed from the expiration of the prior registration. However, driving a vehicle with expired registration is prohibited immediately upon expiration.

Penalties for Expired Registration in Nebraska

Nebraska distinguishes between administrative processes for renewing expired registration and criminal penalties for operating vehicles with expired registration on public highways.

Administrative Penalties

Nebraska does not assess administrative late fees or penalties for renewing expired registration at county treasurer motor vehicle offices. Vehicle owners may renew expired registrations by paying the standard registration fees and taxes without incurring additional late fees. While there are no administrative late fees for renewal, operating a motor vehicle on public highways with expired registration is a criminal violation subject to prosecution.

Traffic Violations

Operating a motor vehicle on Nebraska public highways with expired registration constitutes a misdemeanor offense under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-3,164.

According to Nebraska law, a Class III misdemeanor carries:

Government Agencies

Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
301 Centennial Mall South
P.O. Box 94789
Lincoln, Nebraska 68509-4726
Phone: (402) 471-2281
Official Website: Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles

Nebraska State Patrol Headquarters
4600 Innovation Drive
Lincoln, NE 68521
Phone: (402) 471-4545
Highway Helpline: 1-800-525-5555 or *55 from cell phone
Official Website: Nebraska State Patrol