Nebraska Driver’s License Classes (A Complete Guide)

What are the driver’s license classes in Nebraska?

What vehicle can each class operate?

We’re going to answer these questions and more so that you know which class YOU need. 

On top of that, we’ll also give you the steps on how to obtain each driver’s license class.

So welcome to your complete guide to Nebraska driver’s license classes…

Let’s begin!

Driver’s License Classes in Nebraska

Nebraska issues 5 types of licenses to drivers. These are:

• Class O
• Class A CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class C CDL
• Class M

Let’s see what each license class can operate. 

Class O

Class O is your regular driver’s license. You can use it to operate any private vehicle, including sedans, SUVs, ATVs, mopeds, etc. 

If you don’t drive a motorcycle or commercial vehicle, then you need a Class O license. 

Class A CDL

The Class A CDL is the highest commercial driver’s license. 

You’ll need a Class A CDL for combination commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) that have a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 26,001 pounds. The unit it tows should weigh more than 10,000 pounds. 

So you’ll need a Class A CDL for double or triple trailers, semis, big rigs, and flatbeds.

Another thing you should know. Commercial drivers with Class A CDLs can operate Class B and Class C CMVs (must have the proper endorsement). Most people prefer to carry this because of its flexibility. 

Class B CDL 

A Class B CDL can operate straight, heavy CMVs that have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of more than 26,001 pounds. If it tows a unit, it should weigh fewer than 10,000 pounds. 

Examples of Class B vehicles are box or dump trucks, and city or tour buses. 

Like a Class A CDL, a Class B allows you to drive CMVs in the Class C category (with the right endorsement). But you cannot drive Class A CMVs. 

Class C CDL

Not all commercial vehicles are large and heavy. Class C CDLs are used to operate CMVs with a GVWR of fewer than 26,001 pounds. If towing, the towed item should be fewer than 10,000 pounds. 

You can identify Class C CMVs by the load they carry:

• Designed to carry multiple passengers (16 or more, including the driver)
• Used to transport hazardous materials in large quantities that require placarding

Class M

Finally, Class M can operate a motorcycle or any three-wheeled motor vehicle. 

Now that you know all the classes of driver’s licenses available in Nebraska, it’s time to see how you can get each one.

How to Get a Class O License in Nebraska

Most drivers need a Class O license, so we’ll start here. 

Now, drivers under 18 years old must undergo a Graduated Driver Licensing program. This means that the process of getting your credential involves three stages:

• Earning your learner’s permit (LPD)
• Getting your provisional operator’s permit (POP)
• Receiving your full Class O license

Let’s break each stage into details. 

How to Get a Learner’s Permit (LPD) in Nebraska

Here are the steps to getting a learner’s permit (LPD) in Nebraska:

1. You can begin the process 60 days before you turn 15. However, remember that you cannot receive your LPD until your 15th birthday.

2. Gather the following documents: 
   1. Proof of identity
   2. Proof of citizenship or lawful status
   3. Your principal address in Nebraska (at least two)
   4. A valid social security number or proof of exemption

NOTE: Click here to check which documents you can use.

3. Go to any Department of Motor Vehicles office. 

NOTE: Click here to see all locations. Don’t forget to check their operating hours and available services.

4. On your visit, do the following:
   1. Submit the required documents plus a filled-out Class O ID data form
   2. Pass the vision test
   3. Pass the written exam
   4. Pay the $13 fee

NOTE: You may skip the written test if you already have a valid Nebraska-issued School Learner’s Permit (LPE) or School Permit (SCP). 

5. Receive your LPD.

NOTE: Your permit remains valid for one year. It allows you to operate a vehicle, but a licensed driver (at least 21 years old) must sit in the front passenger seat at all times.

How to Get a Provisional Operator’s Permit (POP) in Nebraska

Here is how to upgrade to a POP in Nebraska:

1. Meet the following eligibility requirements:
   1. Must be 15 years and 10 months old
   2. You’ve had your LPD for six months or longer
   3. You have less than 3 points on your driving record
   4. You finished a state-approved driver safety course 

OR 

5. You completed the required 50 practice driving hours

NOTE: Although you can begin the process 60 days before you turn 16, the DMV will only release your POP on or after your 16th birthday.

2. If you completed a state-approved driver safety course, you can apply for your POP online. 

3. If not, schedule a drive test appointment online. 

4. On your scheduled date, bring the following:
   1. A completed Class O ID data form
   2. Your valid LPD
   3. The 50 Hour Certification Form (filled out and signed by your parent or guardian)
   4. Proof of identity
   5. Proof of US citizenship or legal presence
   6. 2 proofs of residence in Nebraska (parents’ or legal guardian’s residence is allowed)
   7. Social Security Number

1. Pass the following tests:
   1. Vision screening
   2. Driving test

2. Submit the issuance certificate from the driving test.

3. Pay the $15 licensing fee and $5 security surcharge

4. Get your provisional operator’s license (POP)

How to Get a Full Driver’s License (Class O) in Nebraska 

Finally — stage three! 

So, when do you become eligible for a Class O license? Here are the prerequisites:

• You’re under 18 years old but hold a valid POP for the last 12 months and have less than three points on your record.
• You’re between 18 and 21 and have an active POP.

A check on either box means you can apply for a full Class O license online!

If you need more information, like the permit restrictions or how to get a license when you’re already 18+, check out this “Nebraska Driver’s License Requirements” article. 

How to Get a Class A, B, and C CDL in Nebraska

Don’t worry too much about the CDL classes. Whatever you need, the process is the same:

• Part 1: Getting your CLP
• Part 2: Getting your CDL

Let’s look at the details.

How to Get a CLP in Nebraska

To earn your CLP, do the following:

1. Decide which CDL class to get and if you need any endorsements. 

2. Visit a DMV office and submit the required documents:
   1. Valid proof of US Citizenship or Lawful Status
   2. Proof of residence in Nebraska
   3. Proof of identity
   4. Social Security Number
   5. Valid Medical Certificate Card (if getting a Class A – Interstate – Non-Excepted CDL)
   6. Self-certification 

NOTE: If you’re unsure which documents to use, click this link.

3. Take and pass the following test:
   1. Vision screening
   2. CDL written knowledge exam

4. Pay the $15 permit fee.

5. Get your CLP. 

How to Get a CDL in Nebraska

Here is how to upgrade a CLP to a CDL:

1. Hold your CLP for at least 14 days. 

2. Complete an Entry-Level Driver Training. 

3. Make an appointment to take your CDL skills test by calling (402) 471-7983. 

NOTE: You can also take the skills test through an approved-third party tester.

1. On your appointment, bring the following:
   1. Your valid CLP
   2. Your valid Class O license
   3. A commercial vehicle representative of the CDL class for which you are applying
   4. Valid proof of US Citizenship or Lawful Status
   5. Proof of residence in Nebraska
   6. Proof of identity 
   7. Social Security Number
   8. Valid Medical Certificate Card (if applicable)

2. Pass all three parts of the CDL skills test.

3. Submit your CDL skills test certificate. 

4. Pay the $60 fee for a 5-year CDL.

5. Get your CDL. 

For even more information, check out “Nebraska CDL Requirements”. 

How to Get a Class M License in Nebraska

Before you can apply for your Class M license, make sure you meet these requirements:

• You’re at least 17 years old
• You already have a Provisional Operator’s Permit (POP)

NOTE: You should hold your POP for at least 12 months and don’t have more than two points on your driving record

If so, here are the next steps to get a Class M license: 

1. OPTIONAL: Take an approved Basic Rider Course (BRC). This way, you won’t have to take the written and driving exams. 

2. Visit a DMV office and submit the following documents:
   1. Proof of legal status or citizenship
   2. Proof of a valid social security number (or exception)
   3. Proof of Nebraska residency
   4. Your valid POP
   5. A filled-out Class O ID data form. 
   6. Certificate of Basic Rider Course completion (if applicable)

NOTE: Click here to get a list of acceptable documents.

3. Pass the vision test.

4. Pass the written test.

5. Pass the driving test.

NOTE: Steps 4 and 5 only apply to those who don’t take the BRC.

6. Pay $29 and get a 5-year Class M license.

The Wrap Up

And there you have it — your complete guide to Nebraska driver’s license classes. 

Now you know which driver’s license class you need. From there, you also know how to obtain that license. 

So what are you waiting for?

Go ahead and start working towards whatever driver’s license class you need today.

Good luck!