DMV scams involve criminals pretending to be the DMV or a similar agency to trick you into giving up personal data, making fake payments, or clicking harmful links. These scams can happen via:

• Text messages (smishing)
• Emails (phishing)
• Phone calls
• Fake websites
• Social media ads or posts

Common examples include:

• “Your license is suspended. Click here to pay a fee.”
• “Verify your identity to avoid DMV penalties.”
• Fake websites that look like the official DMV site but charge unnecessary fees.
• Emails asking for Social Security numbers or banking info.

Watch out for:

• Unofficial-looking email addresses or links
• Urgent or threatening language
• Poor grammar or misspellings
• Requests for personal or financial information
• Unexpected messages you weren’t expecting from the DMV

The DMV does not send text messages with links to make payments.

Some DMV offices may send official reminders, but they will never:

• Ask for your Social Security number, banking info, or full driver’s license number via text or email
• Threaten arrest, fines, or suspension in unsolicited messages
• Ask for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or apps like Venmo or Zelle

• Bookmark the official California DMV website dmv.ca.gov
• Use spam filters and antivirus software
• Be cautious with messages claiming urgency
• To avoid scam links, verify information directly by calling the DMV or visiting dmv.ca.gov

1. Don’t click on any links or download attachments.
2. Don’t reply or share personal information.
3. Report it to your state’s DMV or local authorities.
4. Visit the official California DMV website dmv.ca.gov directly— type the address into your browser, don’t trust search ads or unknown links.

If you’ve received a suspicious message, contact the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.