All Nebraska drivers must carry a minimum level of car insurance to operate a vehicle legally. The state follows an at-fault insurance system, meaning the person responsible for the accident is financially liable. Below is a breakdown of Nebraska’s 2025 auto insurance laws, including required limits and enforcement methods.
Table of Contents
- Minimum Liability Coverage
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
- Optional Coverage to Consider
- Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
- Proof of Insurance & Verification
- Compare to Nearby States
- Frequently Asked Questions
Minimum Liability Coverage in Nebraska
Nebraska law requires drivers to maintain liability insurance with at least the following limits:
- Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage: $25,000 per accident
This is commonly referred to as 25/50/25 coverage. These limits protect others if you’re at fault in an accident but do not cover your own vehicle or medical expenses.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Nebraska requires drivers to carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage at the same 25/50 minimum limits. These coverages help pay for your injuries if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your losses.
Optional Coverage to Consider
In addition to the required coverages, many drivers choose to add extra protection:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision losses like theft or hail.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Helps with medical bills regardless of fault.
- Rental Reimbursement: Helps cover the cost of a rental car after an accident.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Nebraska imposes the following penalties if you’re caught driving uninsured:
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Suspension of your vehicle registration
- Fines and reinstatement fees
- Requirement to file an SR-22 for proof of future coverage
Keeping continuous insurance coverage is essential to avoid these consequences.
Proof of Insurance & Verification
Nebraska uses an electronic insurance verification system to confirm active policies for all registered vehicles. If your insurance lapses, the state can automatically suspend your registration.
Drivers must also carry proof of insurance in their vehicle and present it when requested by law enforcement or during vehicle registration.
Compare to Nearby States
| State | Minimum Liability Limits | Notable Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Nebraska | 25/50/25 | UM/UIM required |
| South Dakota | 25/50/25 | Similar limits; electronic verification |
| Iowa | 20/40/15 | Lower coverage required |
| Missouri | 25/50/25 | UM required; similar to Nebraska |
| Kansas | 25/50/25 | PIP mandatory; no-fault state |
| Colorado | 25/50/15 | Lower property damage minimum |
| Wyoming | 25/50/20 | SR-22 required after lapse |
Frequently Asked Questions about Nebraska Car Insurance
What are Nebraska’s minimum auto insurance requirements?
You must carry 25/50/25 liability coverage plus uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Nebraska?
Yes. Both UM and UIM coverage are mandatory in Nebraska at the same minimum limits as liability coverage.
Does Nebraska verify car insurance electronically?
Yes. The state uses an electronic verification system to confirm that registered vehicles have valid insurance.
What happens if I let my insurance lapse?
Nebraska may suspend your registration and driver’s license. You may also need to file an SR-22 to reinstate driving privileges.
Can I use digital proof of insurance?
Yes. Nebraska allows both paper and digital formats (like a phone app) as valid proof of insurance.
Quick Checklist
- ✅ Carry at least 25/50/25 liability coverage
- ✅ Maintain UM and UIM coverage
- ✅ Keep proof of insurance in your vehicle
- ✅ Avoid lapses to prevent license suspension
- ✅ Consider collision and comprehensive for full protection
Disclaimer: This summary is for general guidance only. For the latest updates, visit the Nebraska DMV or consult your insurance provider.