Understanding Dishonored Check Payments
A dishonored check (DC) occurs when your payment to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is returned unpaid. This often happens due to insufficient funds or incorrect bank information. This guide outlines how to address a DC and avoid potential fees and penalties.
To begin the DC payment process, you'll need the Dishonored Check letter from the DMV. This letter contains crucial information, including your account number. You will also need your Driver’s License/ID card (if the DC relates to it) or your vehicle’s license plate number or vessel’s CF Number and the last 5 digits of your vehicle identification number (VIN) or hull identification number (HIN) for a vessel/boat (if related to a vehicle/vessel).
Payment Making a Dishonored Check
You can make a DC payment with a money order or cashier’s check payable to the DMV. Include your full name, the dishonored check account number (found in the letter), and relevant information (driver's license number or vehicle license plate number).
Mail your payment to: DMV Revenue Services Support Unit, Mail Station C140, PO Box 825341, Sacramento, CA 94232-5341.
Fees & Penalties Fees, Penalties, and Refunds
The amount due includes the original check amount, a dishonored check service fee, and possibly late penalties for vehicle registration. Pay the full amount to stop any collection action.
If you paid the total amount before the registration expiration date, the registration penalties may be refunded. If it's within 30 days of the expiration date, a portion may be refunded. If the dishonored check was a result of a bank error, provide a letter from your bank. The DMV will review your situation.
“Avoid penalties by paying the dishonored check amount promptly!
DMV Guidelines
Need Help?
Additional resources to help you resolve your dishonored check
Contact DMV
Call the Revenue Services Support Unit at (916) 657-8101 for further assistance and information.
FAQs
Review the FAQs section for answers to common questions about dishonored check payments.
Important Considerations
If you believe you received a DC notification in error (e.g., you didn’t submit the check, or you aren't the registered owner), provide a written explanation and supporting documents to the DMV at the address above. They will investigate your claim.
Even if someone else wrote the check that was dishonored for your driver's license, ID, or vehicle registration, the responsibility for payment is still yours. If the payment was made by bank information, and the DMV cannot deduct the payment for any reason, you will be charged a service fee.
Bank Information and Online Payments
When using bank information for payments, accurately enter your checking account number and bank routing number. Common errors include using a deposit slip for the routing number, including a check number with the account number, and entering credit card information. Remember that, by using bank information for payment, the department advises customers that if the payment cannot be deducted from your account, a service fee will be charged.
With debit or credit card payments, the DMV obtains a payment authorization before you finish the transaction.