The NTTL has operated since 1920 as the common standard reference for tractor performance in the United States.
The new law was enacted to address problems of false advertising of tractor features and capabilities, requiring that all agricultural tractors sold in Nebraska must have their performance verified by three engineers.
The laboratory was established in 1920 at the University of Nebraska as a central location for tractor testing.
[4] Tests initially focused on drawbar pull, measuring pulling power for plows and other towed implements, and belt horsepower, for operating as a power source for belt-operated external equipment such as threshing machines.
[2] The NTTL is the location of OECD testing and certification for tractors in the United States.