Update for online driver’s license renewals passed

A bill expanding online driver’s license renewals received final reading approval Feb. 4.

LB158, introduced by Valentine Sen. Deb Fischer, expands the upper age limit for online driver’s license renewals and provides opportunities for younger drivers to obtain new licenses online.

Prior law permitted individuals aged 21 to 65 with digital signatures and photos on file with the state Department of Motor Vehicles to renew their class O driver’s licenses or class M motorcyclist licenses online.

LB158 extends this age range to 72 and permits persons under 21 who have completed all required examinations to apply for their operator’s licenses electronically using rules prescribed by the DMV.

The bill also prohibits those who fail a driving test for a class O driver’s license or class M motorcyclist license three times from retaking the test until they complete a driver’s safety course or hold a learner’s permit for at least 90 days. This is a change from prior law, which required completion of a driver’s safety course after six failed attempts.

LB158 was approved 49-0.