1. Who Must Register?
Any interstate motor carrier operating in Nebraska must register under the UCR program if they fall into one of the following categories:
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Motor carriers (including trucking companies and owner-operators) transporting goods across state lines
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Freight brokers and freight forwarders arranging transportation of cargo across states
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Leasing companies that lease vehicles for interstate operations
Exemptions: Intrastate-only carriers that do not cross state lines, government-owned vehicles, and certain private carriers may be exempt. https://www.fmcsa.me/
2. Fee Structure
UCR fees are based on the size of your fleet, determined by the number of commercial vehicles you operate:
| Fleet Size | Annual UCR Fee (2026) |
|---|---|
| 1–2 vehicles | $129 |
| 3–5 vehicles | $275 |
| 6–20 vehicles | $499 |
| 21–100 vehicles | $1,785 |
| 101–1,000 vehicles | $9,985 |
| 1,001+ vehicles | $119,745 |
Fees are prorated based on registration year, and payments must be submitted to the https://www.fmcsa.me/
3. Registration & Renewal
Step-by-Step Process for Nebraska Interstate Carriers:
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Determine eligibility: Confirm your fleet operates interstate.
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Go to https://www.fmcsa.me/
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Submit fleet information: Include the number of vehicles under your DOT number.
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Pay the appropriate fee: Use credit card or electronic payment methods.
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Obtain confirmation: Keep your UCR registration certificate in your records and in your truck.
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Annual renewal: UCR registration is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed between December 1 and December 31 for the following year.
4. Compliance & Enforcement
Nebraska enforces UCR compliance through:
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ODOT and state trooper inspections
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FMCSA cross-checks
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Penalties for non-compliance including fines, suspension of interstate operations, or denial of registration
Failing to register can result in fines up to $1,000 per vehicle and prevent your fleet from legally operating across state lines.
5. Key Tips for Interstate Motor Carriers
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Always verify your fleet size before registering
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Keep proof of UCR registration in all vehicles
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Ensure timely renewal to avoid penalties
Final Thoughts
For any interstate trucking company operating in Nebraska, UCR compliance is not optional. Proper registration ensures legal operation, avoids fines, and demonstrates your commitment to safety and regulatory standards.