What you need to get a Nebraska learner's permit

Nebraska issues learner's permits through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You must be at least 14 years old, pass a written knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs, and provide proof of identity and residency. The permit costs $20 and is valid for two years.

You do not need a Social Security number to get a learner's permit in Nebraska, though you will need one later when you move to a full driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you applied for one, or bring a document showing you are exempt.

The written test covers Nebraska traffic laws, safe driving practices, and road signs. You can study using the official Nebraska DMV Driver's Manual, which is free online at the DMV website. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 14 years old and pass a written knowledge test to get a Nebraska learner's permit.
  • Bring a valid photo ID, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or proof you applied for one.
  • The permit costs $20 and lasts two years from the date of issue.
  • You can study for the written test using the free Nebraska DMV Driver's Manual available online.
  • With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed adult driver age 19 or older in the vehicle with you at all times.

Documents to bring to the DMV

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state ID card as proof of identity. A photocopy is not accepted. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents — ask the DMV office what they will accept before you go.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A school ID or work ID alone is not enough for residency proof.

Bring your Social Security card if you have one. If you do not have a card but have a number, bring documentation showing you applied for one or that you are exempt from having one. You will also need to fill out an process form at the DMV — staff can provide this when you arrive.

How the written test works

The test is administered on a computer at the DMV office. You will have 40 minutes to complete all 50 questions. The questions are multiple choice, and you can review your answers before submitting. You must score at least 80 percent (40 out of 50 questions correct) to pass.

If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test the same day or come back another time. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though each attempt costs $5. Most people pass on their first or second try if they study the official manual.

The test is offered in English only. If you need language support, contact your local DMV office ahead of time to ask about options.

Restrictions on your learner's permit

With a Nebraska learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 19 years old sitting next to you in the front seat at all times. This person must hold a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only other permit holders or unlicensed people in the car.

You can drive during daylight hours and at night, but some restrictions explore if you are under 17. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except to report an emergency. You must follow all other traffic laws and road signs just as a licensed driver would.

Your permit is valid for two years. If it expires before you turn 16, you can renew it at the DMV. When you are ready to take your driving test for a full license, you will need to bring your permit with you.

Where to go and what it costs

Visit any Nebraska DMV office to get your learner's permit. You can find the office nearest you on the Nebraska DMV website. Some offices take walk-ins, but many require an appointment. Call ahead or check online to see if your local office has an appointment system.

The permit costs $20 and is valid for two years. Payment is usually accepted in cash, check, or card — ask your DMV office which methods they take. There is no additional charge if you retake the written test, though each attempt costs $5.

The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you pass the test on your first try. Bring all required documents with you to avoid having to make a second trip.

Moving to a full driver's license

Once you have held your learner's permit for at least one month, you can take the driving test for a full license. You must be at least 16 years old. The driving test includes a vehicle inspection, a written test on road signs and laws (different from the learner's permit test), and a practical driving test with an examiner.

Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency when you go for your driving test. You will also need to bring a vehicle that is registered and insured. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection before the driving test can begin.

The full driver's license costs $35 and is valid for five years. If you do not pass the driving test, you can retake it after waiting a few days. Your learner's permit remains valid while you are preparing to retake the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. Homeschooled students can get a learner's permit the same way as students in public or private schools. You do not need to show proof of enrollment in a school. Bring your birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security card or proof you applied for one.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another time. There is no limit to how many times you can try. Each retake costs $5. Most people pass after studying the Nebraska DMV Driver's Manual more carefully or taking practice tests online.

Do I need to take a driver's education course before getting my learner's permit?

No. A driver's education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Nebraska. However, some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete an approved course, and some high schools offer it as part of their curriculum.

Can I drive to school with my learner's permit?

Only if a licensed driver age 19 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive alone to school, even if it is just a short distance. The supervising driver must have a valid license and be present in the vehicle at all times.

What happens if my learner's permit expires?

Your permit is valid for two years. If it expires before you get your full license, you can renew it at the DMV for another two years. Bring your expired permit, proof of residency, and payment. You do not need to retake the written test to renew.