Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NE Board of Transportation
Truck Driver (CDL) Licensing in Nebraska
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for truck driver (cdl) in Nebraska, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Truck Driver (CDL) in Nebraska
Estimated timeline: 18-21 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 2
(NOTE: In Nebraska, Truck Driver Heavy and Light or Delivery are combined under one license.).
- 3
All individuals holding a Nebraska Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are required to certify tothe DMV what type of operation they engage in.
- 4
Category D - Intrastate & Excepted.In addition, if they operate in Category A (Interstate & Non-Excepted), Drivers are required to provide the DMV with a current copy of their medical examiner' certificate (card - not long form) and keep current with the DMV.Both written knowledge and skill tests (vehicle inspection, basic controls, and road test) are required to obtain a first-time CDL license.Prior to the issuance of a Nebraska CDL with the hazardous materials endorsement, individuals will be required, as per the USA PATRIOT Act, to have a Transportation Security Administration (TSA)security threat assessment completed.Prior to issuance Entry Level Driver Training may be required.
- 5
Five-Year CDL Fee- $60.00Change of Class, Restriction, and/or Endorsement- $15.00.
- 6
Renewal.
- 7
Renewal is required every five years, with the CDL expiring on the licensee's birthday in the fifth year after issuance.
Exam and processing details
- writtenand driving test will be waived, with the exception of the hazardous materials written exam, which is always required
Continuing education and program notes
- certify tothe DMV what type of operation they engage in
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Nebraska Dept. of Motor Vehicles • Driver Licensing Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,940 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#24 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Nebraska eligibility requirements for Truck Driver (CDL) licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Category D - Intrastate & Excepted.In addition, if they operate in Category A (Interstate & Non-Excepted), Drivers are required to provid...).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: writtenand driving test will be waived, with the exception of the hazardous materials written exam, which is always required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Category D - Intrastate & Excepted.In addition, if they operate in Category A (Interstate & Non-Excepted), Drivers are required to provid...).
- 5. Submit the application to Nebraska Dept. of Motor Vehicles~Driver Licensing Services and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Nebraska
With a median salary of $57,940, Truck Driver (CDL)s in Nebraska earn 1% above the national median of $57,440. Nebraska ranks #24 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 18-21 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,157Median annual salary
$57,940Hourly estimate
$27.861% above national median
Difference: +$500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationTruck Driver (CDL) Salary Ranking
#24 of 50 statesfor Truck Driver (CDL) median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | $64,890 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $64,720 |
| #3 | Washington | $63,760 |
| #4 | Oregon | $61,180 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $61,090 |
Nearby States Comparison
Truck Driver (CDL) licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | $57,940 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 18-21 years |
| South Dakota | $56,880 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,080 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $50,540 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kansas | $56,940 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $60,260 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 4 years |
| Wyoming | $60,270 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 18-21 years |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kansas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Colorado | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Nebraska Dept. of Motor Vehicles • Driver Licensing Services
Lincoln, NE, 68509
Phone: 4022471472
Related Careers in Nebraska
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Pilot | $100,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | 1-19 years |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $62,990 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $389,480 | Varies by state board | 1-10 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Truck Driver (CDL) in Nebraska?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 18-21 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Nebraska?
The median annual salary for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Nebraska is $57,940. Salaries range from $38,960 (10th percentile) to $92,890 (90th percentile).
How does the Truck Driver (CDL) salary in Nebraska compare to the national average?
Truck Driver (CDL)s in Nebraska earn 1% above the national median of $57,440, with a state median of $57,940.
How many Truck Driver (CDL)s work in Nebraska?
Nebraska employs approximately 24,160 Truck Driver (CDL)s according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Truck Driver (CDL) license to Nebraska from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Truck Driver (CDL)s in Nebraska?
The licensing agency is Nebraska Dept. of Motor Vehicles / Driver Licensing Services. Review agency details at http://www.nebraska.gov/.
How often do you renew a Truck Driver (CDL) license in Nebraska?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.