Scammed? what to do

Report a DMV scam

Last updated September 19, 2026

The short answer

Report fake DMV ticket texts to 7726 and the FTC

The DMV text claims you have an overdue traffic ticket and threatens to suspend your licence and registration if you do not pay. It usually adds a 35% service fee, a "DMV violation database", and a threat to your credit score. All of it is invented.

What they handle

  • Texts claiming an overdue traffic ticket or violation
  • Fake DMV websites charging for forms and licences
  • REAL ID messages offering to let you skip the queue
  • Threats to suspend your registration or driving privileges

How to file a report

  1. 1

    Report the text as junk and forward it to 7726

    Use your phone's report junk option in the messaging app, and forward the message to 7726, which spells SPAM.

  2. 2

    Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

    The FTC takes reports of scams and bad business practices there.

  3. 3

    Check with your own DMV directly

    If you are unsure whether you owe anything, contact your state DMV yourself. Use a number or address you looked up, never the link in the message.

  4. 4

    Be careful which site you use

    Fake DMV sites have used names like DMV.com and floridadriverslicense.org, built to look official and charge for things that are free or cheaper direct.

What you'll need

  • The message and the number it came from
  • The website address, if you followed a link
  • The amount and card used, if you paid

What to expect

No state DMV texts a demand like this. Reporting feeds carrier blocking and the FTC. A card payment is recovered through your bank.

Go to the FTC: That text about a traffic violation is probably a scam

Frequently asked questions

The text named my actual state DMV. Does that make it more likely to be real?

No. These go out state by state with the right name attached. The tell is the demand itself, since a DMV does not chase a ticket by text with a payment link.

Company guide

DMV scams

Knowing which scam you were hit by makes the report better. This is how scams impersonating DMV actually work, what the company will never ask you for, and the warning signs to recognise next time.

Read the guide →