What You Need to Know About Real ID Scams

“It only takes one click to hand your identity to a scammer.”

That’s the warning coming from the Federal Trade Commission—and yes, it’s happening with something as routine as getting your driver’s license updated.

Related Page: PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM COMMON SCAMS IN 2025

In 2025, Real ID scams are exploding in popularity. Why? Because the Real ID deadline is looming (again), and scammers know people are confused, rushed, and just trying to check a box. According to the FTC, Americans are increasingly falling for fake websites, phony renewal services, and texts pretending to come from the DMV. And unlike some scams that just cost you a few bucks, this one could open the door to full-blown identity theft.

Let’s be clear: you cannot get your Real ID online.
Not through a third-party. Not through a link in a text. Not through an ad on social media.
Only at your local DMV office.

But scammers are betting you don’t know that. Or that you’re too busy to double-check.

Let’s fix that.

In this article, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to avoid Real ID scams—from what they look like, to how to handle a sketchy email or text, to steps you can take right now to protect your identity and finances.

What Is a Real ID?

First, a quick refresher.

The Real ID is a federally compliant form of identification that will soon be required for certain activities—like flying domestically or entering federal buildings. It’s not a new license, but it is a new standard. In Florida and many other states, your Real ID will have a gold star in the upper corner to show it's federally approved.

Here’s what matters: You must visit the DMV in person to get one. There are no shortcuts. No online versions. No third-party services.

So if someone offers you one online… it's a scam.

Real ID Scams: What They Look Like

Scammers have gotten clever. They’re not just sending shady emails anymore. They’re mimicking real DMV websites, sending urgent text messages, and even buying sponsored ads on search engines and social platforms.

Here’s how the scam usually works:

1. You search for “get Real ID online” and click the first link.
   
   
2. The site looks pretty legit—there’s even a seal and terms of service.
   
   
3. It asks you for your full name, Social Security number, address, and maybe even your driver’s license number.
   
   
4. It charges you a small “processing fee”—usually under $50 to keep it low profile.
   
   
5. You never get a Real ID. But now they have all your info.
   
   

Other scams involve:

• Text messages saying your license is about to expire (it’s not).
• Emails with “urgent” Real ID deadlines and fake links.
• Facebook ads offering to “expedite” your ID.
  
  

What they’re really after:

• Your Social Security number
• Your driver’s license number
• Your address and date of birth
• Your credit or debit card information

In short: everything needed to steal your identity—or sell it to someone else.

Why This Scam Is So Dangerous for Banking Customers

If you're a customer at a bank like ours, here's why we take this scam seriously:

• Identity theft opens the door to financial fraud.
  Once someone has your personal info, they can try to open new accounts in your name, drain existing accounts, or file fake tax returns.
  
  
• Scammers may use stolen IDs to access your online banking.
  If they get enough personal info, they can trigger password resets or even spoof verification processes.
  
  
• It puts your entire financial life at risk.
  From mortgages to credit scores, Real ID scams can create a ripple effect that takes years—and thousands of dollars—to clean up.
  
  

How to Spot a Real ID Scam
(Before It’s Too Late)

Here’s your anti-scam checklist:

The DMV will never:

• Ask you to upload documents to a third-party website.
• Text or email you links to apply for a Real ID.
• Charge you online for “processing” or “expediting” a Real ID.
  
  

Red flags include:

• Sites that are not .gov (e.g., “dmv-real-id-now.com”).
• Ads promising to “rush your ID” or “guarantee approval.”
• Payment requests via Venmo, Zelle, gift cards, or crypto.
• Requests for your Social Security number on non-government websites.

Pro tip: Always type your state’s DMV website directly into your browser. Don’t click ads. Don’t follow links from emails or texts. For Florida, go directly to flhsmv.gov.

What to Do if You Think You’ve Been Targeted

If you clicked a suspicious link or shared any info, act fast. Every hour counts.

Step 1: Report the scam

• Report it to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
• Let your state DMV know about the scam, especially if you gave any license information.
  
  

Step 2: Protect your identity

• Freeze your credit with all three bureaus (Equifax, TransUnion, Experian).
• Place a fraud alert on your credit report.
• Use identity theft protection tools if available through your bank or insurer.
  
  

Step 3: Monitor your bank and credit accounts

• Check for unusual transactions.
• Set up account alerts for withdrawals, balance changes, or login attempts.
• Call your bank right away if anything looks off.
  
  

Step 4: Change your passwords

Especially for banking, email, or government sites—use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.

Preventing Scams:
Tips That Actually Work

Let’s make this simple. Here’s how to stay safe moving forward.

1. Bookmark your DMV’s official site

That way, you’re not relying on Google results (where scam sites may pay to appear first).

2. Never share sensitive info through email or text

No government agency asks for your Social Security number or license number via text.

3. Talk to someone you trust

If a message feels off—even slightly—ask your bank, a family member, or someone tech-savvy. A five-minute conversation could save you months of identity cleanup.

4. Keep your devices updated

Scammers rely on old browsers and outdated phones to sneak in malware or phish through pop-ups.

5. Use your bank as a resource

At Liberty Savings Bank (and banks like us), we’re trained to help spot scams. If you’re unsure about a message or site, bring it to us. We’d rather take a look than see you lose money.

You’re Smarter Than the Scam

Scammers thrive on urgency and confusion. But now? You’re informed. You know how Real ID scams work, what to watch for, and what to do if something seems off.

Take your time. Go to the DMV in person. Don’t click strange links. And if you’re ever unsure, reach out to your bank—we’re here to help.