How To Get a Car Title in Nebraska 2026
Nebraska statutes mandate that every motor vehicle owner must obtain a certificate of title within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency in the state. The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, operating as a division within the Department of Transportation, functions as the governing authority for issuing vehicle titles and preserving ownership records for motor vehicles throughout Nebraska.
Where to Apply for a Nebraska Certificate of Title
Nebraska processes title applications through a decentralized system utilizing county-level officials. Authorized processing locations include:
- County Treasurer's Offices – Primary submission centers operating in all 93 Nebraska counties, managed by elected county treasurers
- Licensed Dealerships – Authorized motor vehicle dealers may submit applications electronically on behalf of purchasers
- Mail Submission – Applications may be sent directly to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles central office for processing
Required Documents for Title Application in Nebraska
Individuals applying for a Nebraska certificate of title must provide specific supporting materials to establish legal ownership and comply with state regulations.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or Existing Title | Document must be properly assigned to applicant with signature of seller | Nebraska accepts electronic title transfers from participating states; physical title should be surrendered to county treasurer |
| Application for Certificate of Title (Form RV-707) | All sections must be completed accurately with original signatures | Applications must be signed by all parties whose names will appear on the title; spouses may authorize one spouse to sign on their behalf |
| Valid Identification | Current Nebraska driver's license or state-issued identification card | Out-of-state identification acceptable during initial 30-day residency period |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on transaction circumstances, applicants may need to provide supplementary materials:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Security Interest Documentation | Establishes lien against vehicle securing loan obligation | Lender must complete lien section of application or submit separate documentation |
| Release of Lien | Demonstrates satisfaction of previous secured debt | Must be original document on lienholder letterhead with authorized signature |
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Records mileage at time of transfer | Mandatory for vehicles under 20 model years old; exempt for vehicles over 16,000 pounds GVWR |
| Bill of Sale | Provides evidence of purchase transaction | Required when title is missing or for exempt vehicles; must include date, price, and vehicle details |
| Motor Vehicle Identification Certificate | Verification of vehicle identification number authenticity | Necessary for out-of-state vehicles without previous Nebraska title or when VIN verification is required; completed by law enforcement or authorized inspection station |
| Power of Attorney | Authorizes representative to act on owner's behalf | Must be notarized; original or certified copy required; photocopy submissions are not acceptable |
Nebraska Title Fees and Costs
Nebraska assesses standardized fees for title transactions, with additional county-specific charges authorized by state law.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original Title Certificate | $10.00 |
| Title Transfer Transaction | $10.00 |
| Duplicate Title Issuance | $14.00 |
| Recording Security Interest (Lien) | $10.00 |
| Lien Release Notation | $10.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should be prepared for potential additional expenses:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| County Processing Fee | $3.50 - $7.50 | Varies by county |
| Motor Vehicle Tax | 5.5% of purchase price | Applies to most vehicle purchases; some exemptions available for family transfers and gifts; sales tax must be paid before title issuance for mobile homes and cabin trailers |
| Registration Fees | Varies by vehicle specifications | Calculated based on vehicle weight, age, and type classification; passenger vehicles $15.00 base fee |
| Motor Vehicle Identification Inspection | $10.00 - $25.00 | Charged by authorized inspection facilities; some law enforcement agencies provide service without additional fee |
| Expedited Processing | $25.00 | Available for urgent title needs requiring same-day or priority processing |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Obtain and Review Transfer Documents
Secure the properly assigned certificate of title or manufacturer's statement of origin from the selling party. Verify that the seller's signature appears on the title document and matches the name on the assigned section. If acquiring a vehicle from out of state, confirm whether the issuing state participates in Nebraska's electronic title system or requires physical document surrender.
Step 2: Complete Required Application Forms
Download or obtain the Application for Certificate of Title (Form RV-707) and fill in all mandatory fields using accurate vehicle information that corresponds exactly to the title or manufacturer's statement. Sign the application as required, ensuring all owners whose names will appear on the title provide original signatures. For vehicles requiring odometer disclosure, enter the current mileage or attach a separate odometer disclosure statement.
Step 3: Arrange Vehicle Identification Inspection if Needed
If titling an out-of-state vehicle for the first time in Nebraska or if your circumstances require VIN verification, contact your county sheriff's office or authorized inspection station to schedule a Motor Vehicle Identification Certificate inspection. Present the vehicle, along with the ownership documents, to the inspector.
Step 4: Calculate Applicable Taxes and Fees
Determine the motor vehicle tax due by calculating 5.5% of the greater of the vehicle's purchase price and its book value. Add the standard title fee of $10.00 plus any applicable lien recording fees and county processing charges. Contact your county treasurer in advance to confirm the exact fee schedule, accepted payment methods, and whether sales tax has been previously paid, as practices vary by location.
Step 5: Submit Application to County Treasurer
Visit your county treasurer's office with all completed documentation, the assigned title or manufacturer's statement, identification, and payment. The county treasurer will review your application for completeness, collect all fees and taxes, and forward your application to the state Department of Motor Vehicles for title issuance. Request a temporary movement permit if you need to operate the vehicle before receiving permanent credentials. The county treasurer can provide guidance on temporary permits and their duration.
Step 6: Receive Title Certificate
The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles will process your application and mail the certificate of title to the address indicated on your application within 14 to 21 business days. If you disclosed a security interest or lien on the application, the title will be transmitted directly to the lienholder's address on file. Upon paying off any loan, the lender must release the title to you within 30 days of receiving the final payment.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Nebraska law exempts certain vehicle categories from certificate of title requirements:
- All-terrain vehicles and utility-type vehicles registered exclusively for off-road recreational use
- Farm tractors and implements of husbandry utilized solely for agricultural purposes
- Utility trailers with gross weight of 9,000 pounds or less (title may be requested if desired)
- Self-propelled equipment designed exclusively for construction or industrial applications
- Vehicles owned and operated by government agencies for official business
- Non-resident military members, if the vehicle remains titled in another state
Note: Cabin trailers weighing 2,000 pounds or more DO require Nebraska titles and registration, even though lighter utility trailers are exempt.
Contact Information
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
301 Centennial Mall South
P.O. Box 94789
Lincoln, Nebraska 68509
Phone: (402) 471-3918
Official Website: Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles
