What it looks like
"[State] DMV Final Notice: Our records show an outstanding traffic ticket on your record. If not paid by [date], your driving privileges will be suspended and the case sent to collections. Pay now: [link]"
An example. Real ones change their wording, amounts and names all the time.
How it works
This text is a close cousin of the unpaid toll text. It uses your state's name, a made up legal code, and a short deadline. It threatens things that sound real and serious: losing your license or registration, or damage to your credit.
The link opens a page dressed up to look like a state DMV site. It asks for your name, address, driver's license number and card details to pay the 'ticket'. Some pages also ask for the code your bank texts you. The scammers then use the card, and may use your other details to open accounts in your name.
It works because almost everyone drives, and many people are not sure whether a traffic camera caught them. But DMVs in several states, including New York and Colorado, have said they do not send texts demanding payment for tickets. Real tickets come from the officer or by mail, and you pay the court or agency listed on them.
Signs it is fake
- A text about an unpaid traffic ticket you do not remember getting
- Threats to suspend your license or registration, send you to collections, or hurt your credit
- Official sounding legal codes or case numbers
- A link to pay that is not your state's official DMV website
What to do
- Do not tap the link or reply.
- Look up your state's DMV or motor vehicle website yourself, or call the court named on a real ticket you received.
- Forward the text to 7726 and delete it.
If you already clicked, called or paid
- If you entered card details, call your bank and ask them to block the card.
- If you typed your driver's license number or date of birth, watch your mail and accounts, and visit identitytheft.gov for steps.
- Report it at reportfraud.ftc.gov and ic3.gov.
Being fooled is not your fault. These messages are made by professionals to look real. Acting quickly is what matters. See what to do if you paid a scammer.
Not sure about a message?
Forward it to Uncle at +1 208 214 0093, or send a screenshot. He tells you plainly what looks wrong. He never asks for passwords or codes, and he never texts first. How it works.
Worried about a parent? With the Family plan, you get a heads up when a likely scam reaches them.
More common scams
- Unpaid toll text
- Package delivery text
- Bank fraud alert text
- Amazon order or account text
- See all common scams
Written by the Textuncle team. Last updated October 3, 2026.
Text Uncle