That Text From the BMV? It's Not From the BMV
Last Updated: May 6, 2026
Text scams, along with other forms of fraud, are on the rise. As of 2026, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) warns about a new scam.[1] Scammers send text messages with links that look real but lead to fake BMV websites with false receipts and confirmation numbers.
When you don’t know what to look for, it could make you more vulnerable to a scam like this. Here, learn what BMV/DMV text scams are, how they can impact victims, and signs to watch for. Then, explore how to help protect yourself.
What is a BMV/DMV Text Scam?
A BMV or DMV text scam is a fake message that looks like it comes from your state’s motor vehicle office. In Indiana, this office is called the BMV. Some other states have a Department of Motor Vehicles, or DMV.
A BMV text scam often says you owe a fee, need to renew a license, or must fix a problem right away. It may send a warning that you must pay your fines.
This text can include a link that looks real, but it leads to a fake website. If you click it, scammers may try to steal your personal or payment information or trick you into paying a fake fee.
A BMV text scam is a type of smishing that may intend to compromise your personal information.
You might also like: Smishing vs Phishing: Recognize Indiana’s Most Common Type of Scam
What Can Happen If You Fall Victim to a Scam Like This?
If you fall for a scam like this, a few things can happen.
First, you might lose money if you pay a fake fee. The scammer can also steal your personal details, like your name, address, driver’s license number, or credit card info. They may use this to commit identity theft.
Next, in some cases, clicking the link can install harmful software on your device. This can give scammers access to your accounts or track what you do online.
Finally, it can take time and effort to fix the damage. You may need to cancel cards, watch your accounts, and report the fraud.
Recommended: Top 5 Banking Scams To Watch Out for and How To Protect Yourself
Learn to Spot Some of the Signs of a BMV/DMV Text Scam
When you know the signs to watch out for in a BMV text scam, you can help protect your personal information. This is an important scam to be aware of. Let’s review some of the warning signs of this scam below.
1. The Text Message Asks You to Click a Link
The Indiana BMV advises that they will never ask you to pay fees through a link sent via text.[2] A real BMV or DMV will never send text messages that ask for payment this way.
2. The Message Claims There Is an Urgent Problem
Scam messages often claim your license, registration, or driver status is at risk. They may mention suspensions, unpaid tickets, or express tolls. These messages try to rush you. Express tolls will not text you for payment either.
3. The Text Asks for Personal or Financial Information
Some text messages ask recipients to update their personal information, BMV or DMV records, or enter credit card or debit card details. A real agency will not request this by text.
4. The Link Does Not Lead to an Official Secure Website
The link may look like a “.gov” site, but it is not an official or secure website. These fake pages copy the look of state department websites, including logos, to look legitimate. The goal is to get you to enter information that they can then try to steal.
5. The Message Looks Suspicious or Unexpected
Even when an unexpected text looks official, it can still be a scam. Watch for strange wording, messages claiming to be from “your state’s DMV,” or signs of ticket phishing.
How to Help Protect Yourself From a BMV/DMV Text Scam
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help protect yourself from a BMV text scam.
Some protective measures you can take are:
● Pay attention to consumer alerts in Indiana and nationwide.
● Be aware of urgent messages that ask you to click a link or pay right away.
● Check official websites for warnings and any past due balances.
● Do not click links or download files from unknown texts.
● Go directly to the official BMV or DMV website instead of using links in messages.
● Never share personal or payment information through text.
If you receive a message like this, you are encouraged to:
- Mark the message as spam through your wireless phone provider.
- Report the message to the Federal Trade Commission.[3]
- Tell the agency being impersonated.
If you fall victim to a scam, report it to the police and contact your bank and credit card companies right away.
Check it out: 10 Warning Signs of Identity Theft and How to Report It
Protect Your Finances With Centier by Your Side
Scam tactics can change fast, but the goal stays the same. They try to get your money or personal details. Stay alert for red flags like text messages asking recipients to click links or act fast. Heads up—if something feels off, it usually is. When scams are reported, it can help protect others too.
Learn how to spot threats and protect your accounts at Centier’s Security and Fraud Prevention Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Indiana Department of Vehicles final notice text a scam?
Yes. The Indiana BMV will never ask you to pay fees through a link sent via a text message.[2]
Is it worth reporting a scammer?
Yes, while a report may not always lead to the capture of a scammer, reporting can help the community. In some cases, reports help lead to the arrest of fraudsters. Reporting fraud also helps keep the public safe through awareness.
Does Indiana call it BMV or DMV?
In Indiana, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) handles driver’s licenses, vehicle titles, and registration. In many other states, similar offices are called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you only have a driver’s license in Indiana and get a message from the “DMV,” it is almost certainly a scam.
Sources:
[1] https://www.21alivenews.com/2026/03/14/indiana-bmv-warns-new-text-message-scam/