California DMV warns of new vehicle registration support scam
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The California Department of Motor Vehicles is urging drivers to be wary of a new online scam offering assistance to renew vehicle registration at a discounted rate.
DMV officials say the latest scam uses social media posts to advertise help that could save people up to 50% on vehicle registration renewal fees.
Those who respond are asked to give their license plate, Vehicle Identification Number and the customer's full name, as well as to make a payment through an online platform like CashApp.
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According to the department, requests for these details or payments will never be made through unofficial channels. They further encourage drivers to only conduct business with the DMV or with an authorized business through the Business Partner Automation Program.
A list of businesses that participate in this program can be found on the DMV's website.
An example of what the advertisement looks like can be found below.
'The safest way to renew your vehicle registration is directly through the official DMV website,' DMV Director Steve Gordon said in a release earlier this month. 'We do not offer discounts, and we never conduct official business through social media or other unofficial channels.'
To avoid falling victim to this scam and others that have been circulating in recent months, the DMV encourages Californians to take these precautions:
Steer clear of offers offering discounted DMV services — the department does not offer special deals through unauthorized third-parties or on social media.
Do not respond to unsolicited or suspicious texts.
Verify the source if you are unsure whether something you come across is official or if you have concerns. Officials encourage Californians do this by contacting the department's customer service team at 800-777-0133.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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