TxDMV warns Texans about ongoing text scam

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles sent this bulletin at 03/25/2026 11:14 AM CDT
Texas DMV

NEWS RELEASE

Fake Fines, Real Fraud

TxDMV warns Texans about ongoing text scam.

(AUSTIN, Texas – March 25, 2026) –– Don’t tap that link! Fraudsters are flooding phones with fake violation notices designed to scare and steal. Drivers across Texas have reported receiving alarming messages that falsely claim to be from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) or similarly named agencies.

These texts often threaten immediate prosecution, suspension of vehicle registration, or loss of driving privileges due to unpaid traffic tickets, toll violations, or other infractions. They typically include a link urging recipients to pay fines immediately to avoid further penalties. These scams are designed to steal personal and financial information.

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is not a law enforcement agency and does not issue or collect fines for toll or traffic violations. It also does not communicate about alleged registration violations through unsolicited text messages.

If you receive a suspicious message:

  • Do not click any links.
  • Do not reply or share personal information.
  • Report the message to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov or the Federal Trade Commission at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov.

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Media Contact:
Media@TxDMV.gov
 Customer Contact:
AskDMV@TxDMV.gov

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The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles registers and titles motor vehicles, licenses motor vehicle dealers, credentials motor carriers, issues oversize/overweight permits, and investigates complaints against dealers and motor carriers. Through the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA), TxDMV supports law enforcement efforts and awards grants to reduce vehicle burglaries and thefts. Learn more at www.TxDMV.gov. Subscribe to receive TxDMV news releases via email or text message.