Nebraska ID’s are getting a revamp.
The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles unveiled Monday a new design for state driver licenses and identification cards, featuring some of the state’s iconic symbols, including the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha, cattle grazing on the prairie, the Wildcat hills in the western panhandle, and the state’s official insect, the honeybee.
In addition to the fresh look, new ID’s will come with enhanced security elements.
Photographs of the card holder will now be black-and-white (monochrome), which the DMV says will help identity verification for law enforcement and businesses as distinguish facial features will now emphasize structure, lighting, and texture over color. The new credential also incorporates security features to prevent fraud and counterfeiting, such as refined microprinting and additional embedded security elements.
The Nebraska DMV will begin issuing the new driver licenses and state ID cards at select locations beginning in March 2026. All driver licensing service locations across the state will be issuing the new design by mid-April.
“These new driver licenses and state ID cards celebrate the people, industry, and landscapes that define Nebraska, while integrating the most up-to-date security features available,” said Rhonda Lahm, Director of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles, in a statement.
Current credentials with the previous design will remain valid until the expiration date shown on the card. There is no requirement for residents to replace their existing credential before it expires.
Lahm tells KLIN News its been about 5½ years since the last redesign of state IDs.
“We want to make sure it doesn’t get too stagnant so we can stay ahead of those who try and create counterfeits,” she said.
More information about the new design is available at dmv.nebraska.gov.
Sample Nebraska Operator’s License – Valid until 12-31-2031 (Photo Courtesy: Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles)