License Plate Roundup: Nebraska

While the Cornhusker State doesn’t always steal the national spotlight, it has no shortage of character and charm. Wide-open plains, endless sunsets, and a culture rooted in hard work and community make Nebraska unique. As an embodiment of the American heartland, the state is known for its agriculture and spirit of community. 

Nebraska’s unique traits carry over to its license plate designs—from conservation-focused backdrops to plates celebrating the arts, history, and football pride (Go Big Red!) In this month’s License Plate Roundup feature, we’re heading to the American Midwest to explore Nebraska’s background, standout facts, and RealTruck’s favorite Nebraska license plate designs. 

Before diving into our top Nebraska license plate designs, let’s take a quick look at the state’s humble beginnings, defining features, and cultural significance. 

Nebraska’s journey to statehood kicked off with the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, which officially created the Nebraska territory and opened the region to Western expansion. The area rapidly expanded, fueled by the construction of the railroad and booming agriculture. 

Nebraska drafted a state constitution in 1866, though some controversial voting clauses led President Andrew Johnson to initially veto the admission. However, Congress overrode the veto, leading to Nebraska’s admission to the Union as the 37th state on March 1, 1867. To this day, Nebraska remains the only state ever admitted over a presidential veto. 

Nebraska is known for many features, though perhaps the most obvious is its agricultural production. As a leading corn and beef producer, Nebraska has earned a spot as a cornerstone of American farming. 

Aside from its farming connections, Nebraska has several niche claims to fame. The state is the birthplace of Arbor Day and Kool-Aid, and houses the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium—often ranked as number one in the nation. Historic landmarks like Chimney Rock reflect the state’s frontier heritage, while legendary college football culture makes it a bucket-list destination for college football fans. 

Nebraska is proudly known as The Cornhusker State—a nickname that stems from the University of Nebraska’s athletic teams. The title reflects the state’s deep agricultural roots, namely corn farming. 

Originally, Nebraska’s teams were referred to as the “Bugeaters,” though sportswriter Charles S. Sherman popularized the much more favored “Cornhuskers” in the early 1900s. The name stuck, and the rest is history. 

With Nebraska’s history and background covered, it’s time to get to what we’re all here for—the license plates. The Cornhusker State offers a unique assortment of specialty license plates that support various efforts and community initiatives, like conservation, education, art, history, and more. Check out our favorite plates Nebraska offers below. 

Featuring bold wildlife imagery, the Mountain Lion Conservation license plate supports education and preservation efforts across Nebraska. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Game and Parks Commission Education Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

This license plate honors Nebraska’s Native American heritage while supporting leadership and educational opportunities. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Native American Scholarship and Leadership Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

Celebrating Nebraska’s outdoor recreation and natural beauty, this license plate is perfect for campers, hunters, and weekend explorers. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Game and Parks State Improvement and Maintenance Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

A colorful and creative license plate that helps to fund Nebraska’s arts community, including grants and cultural programs statewide. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Support the Arts Cash Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

This history-themed plate highlights Nebraska’s heritage while supporting historical preservation efforts. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Support Nebraska History Cash Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

Few license plates are as instantly recognizable in Nebraska as the Husker “Go Big Red!” license plate. Designed exclusively for fans of the University of Nebraska sports, this license plate features a dedicated Husker design. 

Fee Distribution: 

• 60 percent ($42) to the DMV Cash Fund

• 40 percent ($28) to the Highway Trust Fund

This heartwarming program pairs US veterans with service and companion animals for emotional and physical support. 

Fees Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Vets Get Pets Cash Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

Featuring Nebraska’s state reptile, this license plate supports wildlife conservation initiatives statewide. 

Fees Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Wildlife Conservation Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

Showcasing one of Nebraska’s most iconic and unique native species, the Bighorn Sheep license plate helps to fund wildlife conservation projects in the state. 

Fees Distribution: 

• 75 percent ($30) to the Wildlife Conservation Fund

• 25 percent ($10) to the DMV Cash Fund

Perfect for hunters or waterfowl enthusiasts, this license plate supports wetland and habitat conservation.

Fees Distribution: 

• 60 percent ($42) to the DMV Cash Fund

• 40 percent ($28) to the Highway Trust Fund

Nebraska’s license plates offer unique and meaningful ways to celebrate and support Nebraska's heritage, as well as culture, conservation, and community efforts—so show them off with pride. Whether you’re running a customized plate, standard-issue design, or special-interest offering, RealTruck carries a full lineup of license plate accessories, like frames, relocation brackets, anti-rattle hardware, and illuminated mounting solutions. 

Stay tuned for the next License Plate Roundup, where we’ll explore another state’s standout designs. And as always, contact the experts at RealTruck for all of your truck, Jeep®, and SUV accessorizing needs.