Georgia Department of Driver Services Warns of Continuing Text Message Scams for Unpaid Traffic Tickets

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) has issued a warning about a recurring text message scam targeting residents with fake traffic ticket notifications. Scammers are sending fraudulent messages that appear to be from official sources, claiming recipients owe fines or need to resolve traffic violations. These messages often include links designed to steal personal or financial information. The DDS is urging the public not to click on suspicious links or provide any personal data, emphasizing that it does not send traffic ticket information to customers.

DDS Commissioner Angelique B. McClendon commented, "DDS employees will never contact customers to request payment or confidential information," she said. "Anyone receiving such messages should treat them as scams. Customers facing license suspension or other changes to their license status will receive official written notification from DDS. If you receive one of these or a similar text message, do not open or respond to it-delete it immediately."

You should always carefully examine text messages before responding, clicking on links, or providing any information. Scammers, through a technique called "smishing," use text messages to trick you into revealing personal and financial data. There are several errors that prove this particular message is a scam. The most obvious:

• There is no Georgia State Administrative Code 15C-16.003.
• Drivers' licenses in Georgia are handled by DDS (Department of Driver Services) not a DMV.
• There are no longer any toll booths in Georgia. Georgia has Express Lanes.

Customers can quickly verify the status of their license on the DDS website at this secure link https://dds.drives.ga.gov/_/.

In addition, DDS encourages all customers to create an Online Services Account at https://www.dds.georgia.govand also add Georgia's new Digital License or ID to your smartphone wallet for an easy way to monitor your personal information 24/7 https://dds.georgia.gov/georgia-licenseid/ga-digital-id.