In a state known for its sweeping plains and the iconic Chimney Rock, Nebraskans are finding a unique way to express their individuality: through personalized license plates. Officially known as “Message Plates,” these customized tags allow drivers to showcase their personality, humor, or creativity on the open road. This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the process, from understanding the costs and rules to applying for your own and learning why some messages don’t make the cut.
What Are Nebraska Message Plates?
Nebraska’s Message Plates program allows owners of most vehicle types—including standard motor vehicles, motorcycles, and trailers—to create a custom message in place of a standard-issue license plate . It’s an opportunity to move beyond the randomly assigned numbers and letters and craft a statement that is uniquely yours. The program is managed by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which sets the guidelines for what is permissible. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a newcomer to the state, understanding the nuances of these specialty plates can help you avoid common pitfalls during the application process.
How Much Do Nebraska Vanity Plates Cost?
The fee for a personalized Message Plate is straightforward, but it’s important to understand the full cost. The initial application and annual renewal fee for a Message Plate is $40.00 . This fee is in addition to the standard vehicle registration fees and taxes that all Nebraska drivers must pay. Unlike some states where vanity plate fees are a one-time charge, Nebraska requires this payment annually to maintain the personalized message.
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
| Initial Message Plate Fee | $40.00 | Paid at the time of application to the DMV. |
| Annual Renewal Fee | $40.00 | Paid yearly along with your vehicle registration. |
| Plate Production Fee | Up to $13.70 | A one-time fee charged when you pick up your new plates. |
How to Apply for Personalized Plates in Nebraska
1. Online Application (Recommended)
The most efficient method is the DMV Specialty Plate eService portal. This tool allows you to check the availability of your desired text in real-time. If the message is available and valid, you can submit your application and payment immediately using your current vehicle registration and title information.
Visit the Portal: Go to the Nebraska DMV Specialty Plate eService.
Select Vehicle Type: Choose your vehicle category (e.g., Passenger, Motorcycle, Trailer).
Choose Plate Style: Select “Message Plate” (or the specific specialty background you want to personalize, like “Husker Message”).
Check Availability: Type in your desired text. The system will tell you immediately if the message is available or already taken.
- Tip: Have a few backup ideas ready in case your first choice is gone.
Enter Owner Information: Input your current Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and registration details exactly as they appear on your current registration card.
Submit Payment: Pay the $40.00 application fee using a credit card, debit card, or e-check.
Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email. Save this. It is your proof of payment while the plate is being manufactured.
2. Mail-In Application
If you prefer paper forms, you can download the application from the Nebraska DMV website. You must mail the completed form along with a check or money order for the $40.00 fee to the Driver and Vehicle Records Division in Lincoln.
Download the Form: Obtain the “Application for Specialty Plates” from the DMV website.
Complete the Form: Fill out your personal info and vehicle details.
List Your Choices: The form will ask for your message. Because you cannot check availability in real-time, list your top three choices in order of preference. The DMV will process the first one that is available and valid.
Calculate Fees: Enclose a check or money order for $40.00 made payable to the “Department of Motor Vehicles.”
Mail It: Send the completed form and payment to:
Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles Driver and Vehicle Records Division P.O. Box 94789 Lincoln, NE 68509-4789
Nebraska Vanity Plate Rules and Character Limits
Your application will be rejected if your message violates state formatting or content guidelines. Checking these rules is the most critical step of the planning process.
- Character Limits:
- Cars, Trucks, Vans: Maximum of 7 characters.
- Motorcycles/Autocycles: Maximum of 6 characters.
- Allowed Characters: Uppercase letters (A-Z) and numbers (0-9) only.
- No Symbols: You cannot use dots, dashes, or special characters (e.g., “HUSKER#1” is invalid).
- Exception: Some County Message plates allow a specific dash format.
- Spacing: You are allowed one space, but it counts as a character. (e.g., “GO BIG” is 6 characters).
- Prohibited Content: Messages that imply objectionable, obscene, or offensive meanings are banned. Additionally, you cannot mimic the standard state format (three letters followed by three numbers, like “ABC 123”).
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, personalized plates are considered the property of the vehicle owner in Nebraska. You can transfer them to another vehicle as long as it is registered in your name and you complete the necessary paperwork at your County Treasurer’s office.
If a message was previously registered but has since expired or been invalidated, it does not become available immediately. There is a mandatory 13-month waiting period before the message can be issued to a new applicant.
If the DMV determines your message is objectionable, you will receive a rejection notification. Importantly, your payment is not withheld from your account until the message is officially accepted, so you will not need to seek a refund for a rejected request.
Conclusion
Nebraska’s Message Plates offer a fantastic way for drivers to add a personal touch to their vehicles while supporting state highway and DMV funds. The process is designed to be user-friendly, provided you adhere to the character limits and content restrictions. By planning your message carefully and checking its availability online, you can successfully navigate the system and join the thousands of Nebraskans who express themselves on the road. For those ready to make a statement, the next logical step is to visit the Nebraska DMV website to begin your application.
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