Go to the DMV: It's the Only Way to Avoid a REAL ID Scam

If you're getting ready to travel this holiday season, you've probably heard about the REAL ID required to board domestic flights (if you have a star on the upper right hand of your driver's license, you're good to go). To get one, you have to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. There's no way around it.

Unfortunately, scammers are also using this requirement to try and steal your money and personal information. They're pretending to be the DMV or another government agency, sending out deceptive texts and emails that promise to "expedite" your REAL ID application for a fee.

You get an unexpected message from someone claiming to be from the DMV or the Department of Homeland Security. The message says you can skip the long lines and get your REAL ID faster if you just click a link.

The link takes you to a fake website that looks official. They'll ask you to provide personal information and pay a fee. Once you hand over your details, the scammers can steal your money, your identity, or both.

How to Avoid a REAL ID Scam

• You must apply in person. The only way to get a REAL ID is by visiting your state's DMV in person with the required documents. You cannot apply online or through the mail, and nobody can fast-track the process for you. Any message that says otherwise is a scam.
• Don't click suspicious links. Never click on links in unexpected texts or emails, especially if they ask for personal information or payment. If you're unsure whether a message is legitimate, contact the DMV directly using a phone number or website you know is real; don't use the one provided in the message.
• Report and delete. If you receive an unwanted text, use your phone's "report junk" option or forward it to 7726 (SPAM). For emails, report it as junk or spam to your email provider. After you've reported it, delete the message.

Staying informed and cautious is your best defense. By knowing the proper procedure for getting a REAL ID, you can easily spot and avoid these scams. If you do encounter a scam, be sure to report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.