Residents in Arizona are being warned about a new scam text message that falsely claims recipients owe money for an unpaid traffic ticket to the “Arizona Department of Vehicles.” The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has clarified that it does not collect payments for unpaid traffic tickets and would not send such requests via text.
“ADOT doesn’t collect for unpaid traffic tickets, and even if we did we wouldn’t be texting you like this,” stated the department. Officials urge people to ignore these texts and avoid clicking on any links included in suspicious messages.
The scam features several inaccuracies, including references to a non-existent “State of Arizona Department of Vehicles” and misuse of acronyms. The graphic attached to the message reportedly contains poor grammar and factual errors. ADOT warns against following any payment links provided in these texts.
“If you’re still concerned, you also can check your Motor Vehicle Division account at azmvdnow.gov to see any outstanding payments or visit an MVD office to inquire about any fees you may have. Average wait times are only 12 minutes,” the statement reads.
ADOT advises residents to visit azdot.gov/scams for examples of fraudulent messages and tips on protecting personal information, with resources available in both English and Spanish.
The Arizona Department of Transportation is responsible for managing various transportation facilities throughout the state, including rest areas, highway cameras, snowplow operations, and infrastructure projects across multiple districts (official website). Under the leadership of Director Jennifer Toth (official website), ADOT oversees planning, design, construction, maintenance, and operation of Arizona’s transportation systems. The agency collaborates with regional partners on projects such as corridor studies and traveler information systems (official website) and offers services ranging from motor vehicle support to airport enhancements (official website).
