DMV "Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin" text scam

Updated October 23, 2026

The text people are getting

Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on May 26. Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. […]

As reported by Polk County Tax Collector (Florida), May 2025.

Alabama Department of Vehicles(DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 8.
Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. […]

As reported by Alabama Department of Revenue, June 2025.

Wisconsin Department of Vehicles (DMV)
Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties Begin on June 7.
Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket. […]

As reported by WBAY (Wisconsin), June 2025.

How to tell it's a scam

The department doesn't exist. Many versions name a "Department of Vehicles." Alabama's Department of Revenue pointed out there's no such agency in Alabama.
One template, every state. The same wording, "Our records show that as of today, you still have an outstanding traffic ticket," turned up in Florida, Alabama, California, Wisconsin, and New York with only the state and date changed.
A threat with a deadline. The text lists penalties that start in a day or two, like being reported to a "violation database," to rush you into paying.
A link to pay. Real traffic tickets come with a citation and instructions on paper. A DMV won't send you a link in a text to settle a fine.
Odd senders. One Wisconsin version came from a number in the Philippines.

What DMVs actually do

The California DMV says it will never text you to ask for personal or financial information. Virginia's DMV says it never texts demanding payment for fines or fees, New York's DMV says it won't text asking for personal information, and Florida's highway safety department says it won't text demanding payment or threatening suspension or arrest. If you really owe a fine, the court or agency contacts you by mail, and you can confirm it on the official website.

If you tapped the link or paid

Only opened the page? Close it and don't enter anything. Delete the text after you report it.
Entered card details or paid? Call your bank or card company using the number on your card and ask them to block the card and dispute the charge.
Entered your driver's license or Social Security number? Go to IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan.

The full checklist is in what to do if you clicked a scam link.

Report it

Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM) so your carrier can block the sender. How to report spam texts on iPhone.
Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
If you lost money, also file a report with the FBI at ic3.gov and with your local police.

Questions

Is the DMV "Final Notice" text real?

No. The same template has gone out in many states with only the state name swapped in. DMVs in California, Virginia, New York, and Florida have all warned about it and said they don't text people asking for payment or personal information.

What happens if I paid?

Call your bank or card company right away using the number on your card and ask them to stop or reverse the charge. Then follow the steps in what to do if you clicked a scam link.

How do I check if I really have a ticket?

Go to your state DMV's website by typing the address yourself, or call the number on a letter or notice you've received by mail. Don't use a link or number from the text.

Sources

Facts checked October 23, 2026.