California DMV Text Scam Message Home > Categories > Scamming - Fraud 0 0 3 0 Mar 19, 2026 2026-03-19T10:56:05-05:00 Mar 19, 2026 2026-03-19T10:59:35-05:00 Online Threat Alerts (OTA) California DMV text scams are fraudulent messages claiming you have unpaid tolls or tickets, threatening license suspension to steal personal and financial data. The California DMV (www.dmv.ca.gov) never sends texts demanding payment or threatening, nor do they use links for payments. Do not click links, delete the message, and report it to your carrier by forwarding to 7726. Warning SignsUrgency & Threats: Messages mention, "final notice," "suspended license," "vehicle registration hold," or "unpaid toll fees".Fake Links: URLs do not end in .gov, but instead look like .cc, .com, or [dmv-gov...]..Unsolicited Contact: The DMV only sends texts for appointments, verification, or renewals if you opted in, not for penalties.What to DoDo Not Reply or Click: Avoid clicking links, as they can lead to phishing sites or download malicious software.Verify Independently: Go directly to the official dmv.ca.gov website or call 800-777-0133.Report the Scam: Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM).Report to Federal Trade Commission (FTC): File a report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.